Livinz Medspa
Spider Veins
Spider Veins
Spider Vein Treatment in Bronxville, NY
Spider veins (telangiectasias) are small, thin blood vessels visible beneath the skin, often appearing like a series of thin tree branches or strands of a spider web. Extremely common, they affect nearly half of the adult population of the United States. Although most spider veins are primarily a cosmetic issue, they can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as aching, burning, swelling, and leg cramping for some people.
At Livinz MedSpa in Bronxville, NY, we offer highly effective and minimally invasive treatments to eliminate visible veins, providing aesthetically pleasing results without painful or lengthy downtime.
Causes of and Risk Factors for Spider Veins
Spider veins develop from a backflow of blood in the veins. This condition, known as venous reflux, results from damaged valves in the veins. As blood collects, the vein walls distend, increasing their size and making them visible under the surface of the skin. Risk factors for developing spider veins include:
- Increasing age.
- Hormonal changes and pregnancy.
- Obesity and lack of exercise.
- Sun exposure.
- Having a family history of spider veins.
Diagnosis and Minimally Invasive Treatment Options
Spider veins are typically diagnosed through a physical examination, analysis of symptoms, and sometimes, a diagnostic ultrasound. Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms or removing the veins entirely through advanced, minimally invasive methods.
1. Sclerotherapy
- Mechanism: Sclerotherapy involves injecting a sclerosant, a specialized solution, directly into the veins to collapse them.
- Procedure: This procedure is performed in a doctor's office, typically taking approximately one hour.
- Timeline: A typical patient usually requires two to four treatments for optimal results.
2. Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT)
- Mechanism: EVLT, also called "laser ablation," is a procedure where a catheter with a laser probe is inserted directly into the damaged vein. The laser heat seals off the damaged vessel, diverting blood flow to healthier veins.
- Advantage: Both Sclerotherapy and EVLT treatments have fewer side effects, cause less pain, and have shorter recovery times than traditional surgical vein removal procedures.
3. Compression Stockings (Symptom Control)
Wearing compression stockings is the simplest method for treating spider veins. These stockings apply pressure to the affected veins, promoting blood flow back to the heart. Note that this method is designed to control symptoms, not remove the veins.
Prevention of Spider Veins
While there is no sure way to prevent spider veins, making certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of developing them:
- Weight and Exercise: Losing weight and exercising regularly.
- Support: Wearing support stockings and comfortable, flat shoes.
- Movement: It is important to move the legs frequently, especially during long periods of sitting or standing in one place.
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