Many women are burdened by spider veins. Even though spider veins do not produce any symptoms, many women are distraught because of the unsightly cosmesis they produce. Spider veins which resemble minute "stars" are common in both sexes but women appear to be more bothered by them. Today, the treatment of spider veins has become routine with acceptable results. Most cosmetic surgeons and dermatologists in Arkansas treat spider veins using either sclerotherapy or laser.
Can spider veins be removed with surgery?
No, spider veins are very small and surgery has no role in their treatment.
Is my leg swelling from spider veins?
No, Spider veins are tiny (<1-2 mm in size) and hardly contain more than a drop of blood. They are caused by increased pressure in the veins but do not cause any symptoms. Leg swelling may be caused by varicose veins but not spider veins.
How does one investigate spider veins?
There are no tests to make a diagnosis of spider veins. A physical exam by a competent doctor can easily make a diagnosis of spider veins.
What is the treatment of spider veins?
Spider veins can be treated with either:
Sclerotherapy: In this technique an irritant solution is injected into the spider vein. The chemical causes the spider vein to collapse and disappear with time. Each spider veins requires an injection and thus the procedure is time consuming. After the procedure, one must wear compression garments for about a week.
Laser: Most cosmetic physicians in Arkansas highly recommend Laser as the treatment of choice for spider veins. The treatment utilizes a small hand laser probe which is flashed over the spider veins. The treatment is quick, has minimal pain and has little downtime.
How many sessions are required to treat spider veins?
Most physicians do recommend that 2-3 sessions with either the laser or sclerotherapy may be adequate to treat the majority of spider veins.
Can Spider veins recur?
Yes, but not the treated ones. They may recur in other areas and more treatments may be required in future.
What is the cost of spider vein treatment?
The average cost off spider vein treatments in Arkansas ranges from $200-400. The cost unfortunately is not covered by any medical carriers.
