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Sclerotherapy / Laser Vein Treatment For Spider Veins & Varicose Veins
Sclerotherapy / Laser Vein Treatment
Sclerotherapy and laser vein treatment can each reduce the appearance of spider veins and varicose veins. These vein patterns are usually blue or red in nature and found directly below the skin. Varicose and spider veins tend to become more prominent as you age and may be visible around the legs, hands, face, or arms. Many patients wish to reduce the appearance of underlying vein patterns to restore a smoother-looking complexion. The Dermatology, Laser and Surgery of Flatiron team provides Sclerotherapy and laser vein treatments to address unwanted spider and varicose vein patterns. Sclerotherapy utilizes a specialized injection to dissolve veins, while laser vein reduction uses laser technology to treat veins.
What Are Spider And Varicose Veins?
Spider Veins
Spider veins (also referred to as telangiectasias) are small, thin vein patterns that often appear red, blue, or purple in color. These veins are very common around the face and legs. Spider veins may cause discomfort or pain in some cases.
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are larger than spider veins. These veins may cause bulging and often appear as blue or flesh-colored. Varicose veins primarily affect the legs and can cause throbbing, aching, and pain.
| Spider Veins |
Varicose Veins |
| Smaller, thinner vein patterns |
Larger, thicker veins that bulge |
| Often appear blue, red, or purple |
Often appear blue or flesh-colored |
| Most common around the face and legs |
Usually affect the legs |
| May cause discomfort or pain |
Can ache, throb, or cause pain |
Varicose / Spider Vein Removal At A Glance:
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy treatment is composed of a specialized solution that is injected into spider or varicose veins. This solution collapses the targeted veins, causing them to gradually dissolve and disappear from view. Sclerotherapy can target both smaller veins, like spider veins, and larger patterns, including varicose veins.
Laser Vein Treatment
Laser vein treatment uses laser devices to target unwanted veins. Laser energy is delivered to targeted vein patterns, breaking up veins. Over time, these veins are absorbed by your body and fade away. Laser vein removal can target both spider and varicose veins of varying sizes.
| Varicose Vein / Spider Vein Treatments |
| Sclerotherapy |
Uses specialized injectable solution |
Sclerotherapy injection collapses vein patterns |
These spider or varicose vein patterns gradually dissolve |
Minimal post-procedure downtime |
| Laser Vein Treatment |
Utilizes laser energy |
Laser energy breaks up unwanted spider veins or varicose veins |
After being broken up, veins are gradually absorbed by the body |
Minimal healing time required |
How Many Spider / Varicose Vein Treatments Are Required?
Both Sclerotherapy and laser vein removal can achieve substantial results after 1 treatment. However, multiple treatments may be required for optimal results; this is dependent on the specifics of your procedure. Our dermatologists at Dermatology, Laser and Surgery of Flatiron can further discuss the details of your vein reduction procedure during your in-office consultation.
Who Is Considered An Ideal Candidate For Vein Removal?
Patients who are bothered by unsightly or painful spider veins and varicose veins may be candidates for either Sclerotherapy or laser vein treatment. Our team at Dermatology, Laser and Surgery of Flatiron can help advise whether vein removal is right for you during your consultation at our New York City offices.
Is Anesthesia Recommended?
Anesthesia is not usually required during Sclerotherapy or laser vein treatment. A topical numbing cream can be applied to ease any discomfort that may occur during your vein removal procedure.
What Should I Expect After Undergoing Treatment For Varicose Or Spider Veins?
After undergoing laser vein treatment, patients can expect mild swelling and discomfort lasting a few days. Sclerotherapy patients tend to experience slight swelling or bruising around the treatment area for a few weeks.
Compression tape and stockings may be necessary to aid in healing following vein treatment. Patients are encouraged to walk frequently and avoid sitting or standing still for long periods of time. You can typically resume most daily activities immediately after undergoing vein removal.
What Kind Of Vein Treatment Results Can I Expect?
Vein treatment can reduce the prominence of unwanted spider veins or varicose veins. Both Sclerotherapy and laser vein removal can achieve long-lasting results and restore a younger, smoother look to the legs, face, hands, or arms.
How Do I Get Started With Vein Treatment?
The doctors and staff at Dermatology, Laser and Surgery of Flatiron would be happy to discuss spider vein treatment and varicose vein treatment in more detail. Please give us a call at 212-982-8229 or request an appointment online for a personal consultation at our New York offices.