What are Spider and Varicose Veins?
Undesired spider/varicose veins are treatable via various methods at Strimling Dermatology, Laser & Vein Institute of Summerlin, Las Vegas, NV.
“Spider” veins (telangiectasias) are dilated, visible small blood vessels in the skin or near the surface, while varicose veins are larger variants, usually located variably below the skin surface in the fatty layer. Most commonly, spider veins occur on the face and legs. Spider veins pose no health risk, however, they may produce a dull aching in the legs with prolonged standing and indicate more severe venous disease.
Varicose veins may be associated with other conditions:
- Phlebitis (an inflamed, tender vein),
- Thrombosis (a blood clot in a vein),
- Vvenous stasis rash and/or ulcer (an open, poorly healing sore).
The exact cause of spider and varicose veins is unknown; however, heredity, pregnancy and hormonal influences are thought to be primary contributing factors.
Sclerotherapy, pioneered by dermatologic cosmetic surgeons, is the gold standard technique for removal of spider and some varicose leg veins. A concentrated saline or other chemical solution is injected using a very tiny needle directly into the spider and/or varicose veins. The sclerosant solution causes an inflammatory response within the inner lining cells of the vein, causing it to collapse and close and become replaced by invisible scar tissue, which is eventually absorbed. The movement of blood is re-routed to nearby healthy veins.
Foam Sclerotherapy uses a foam formulation, usually made with FDA-approved Asclera (Polidocanol) or other similar sclerosants. Foam sclerotherapy with Asclera may be less painful than other sclerosants, but carries a risk of severe allergic reaction. Strimling Dermatology, Laser & Vein Institute in Las Vegas offers both foam and liquid saline sclerotherapy.
Usually, one to three treatment sessions are required at monthly to bimonthly intervals. After treatment, medical grade support hose for two to three days or longer is recommended. Walking and moderate exercise may speed recovery.
Periodic treatment of new blood vessels may be necessary, as sclerotherapy does not prevent new spider or varicose veins.
Sclerotherapy is safe, effective and can be performed at any time of the year. Side effects / risks are very infrequent, usually self-limited and not dangerous.
Alternative therapies include Ambulatory Phlebectomy and various Lasers or Intense Pulsed Light (aka Broad Band Light) .
Ambulatory phlebectomy is the surgical removal of undesired varicose veins through a series of tiny incisions, that leave small, but slightly visible scars.
We usually treat face spider veins with electrosurgery and/or Broad Band Light (BBL).
Certain varicose veins, in particular the Greater & Lesser Saphenous Veins are usually best treated by intravascular laser or radiofrequency ablation, another procedure pioneered by dermatologic cosmetic surgeons.
Injection sclerotherapy for leg spider and varicose vein removal is one of the most commonly requested and performed procedures by our board certified dermatologists. With over 50 years of combined experience, our dermatologists are among the most experienced cosmetic dermatologists in Las Vegas. Our dermatologists have been voted or selected among the "Best Dermatologists" in Las Vegas and America multiple years. Also, our Dr. Strimling has been selected as an "Award Winning Cosmetic Surgeon".
Strimling Dermatology, Laser & Vein Institute of Summerlin, Las Vegas treats patients not only from all over the Clark County valley and nearby areas, but also, nationally and internationally.
Contact us at info@strimderm.com or call us at (702) 243-6400 to schedule a personalized consultation with one of our experienced sclerotherapy cosmetic dermatology specialists.