Named for their web-like patterns, spider veins are a milder form of varicose veins. Visible on the skin’s surface, spider veins can appear in clusters of thin purple or red lines. These veins aren’t typically considered harmful; however, many find their appearance unpleasant and wish to have them removed.

Similar to varicose veins, spider veins develop when the valves in veins are damaged or defective. Inefficient blood flow causes the blood to collect in the veins rather than passing through them. The most common causes of spider veins include:

The most apparent symptom of spider veins is the visible appearance of the veins beneath the skin’s surface. Spider veins do not bulge as varicose veins do, but they can have many of the same symptoms, including:

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and believe you may be suffering from spider veins, schedule a consultation for an official diagnosis and treatment plan.

Swollen and painful veins are considered a medical issue and should be treated as such. Thigh-high compression stockings can encourage blood flow around the infected area; however, this is not a permanent solution. Damaged veins will remain until they are surgically removed or closed.

Most insurance companies will ask to review venous ultrasound results before providing varicose vein treatment coverage. Conducted in a vein specialist’s office, a short consultation appointment will enable the provider to review the quality of your veins and make a recommendation for treatment. Ultrasounds that produce findings that veins are causing swelling, ulcers, heaviness, or backward blood flow will be labeled as medically necessary.

Unlike varicose veins, spider veins do not typically require surgical intervention.

The Cutera Excel V offers a new treatment approach for various conditions, including vascular and benign pigmentation, spider veins, leg veins, rosacea, and bruising. The laser has a cooling mechanism that minimizes patient discomfort while protecting the skin. These treatments use a highly focused laser to penetrate the skin and deliver heat energy into the vein, sealing it off from its blood source. Once the vein no longer receives incoming blood, it dissolves and is no longer visible.

A majority of the treated veins show significant improvement within two to six weeks.

The two interchangeable hand pieces give the Cutera Excel V device the flexibility to treat a wide range of conditions, from superficial to deep vascular conditions. While the Cutera Excel V laser is primarily known for treating vascular conditions, such as spider veins and broken capillaries, this laser can also treat benign pigmented lesions and sun-damaged areas.

It can be a challenge to determine if the frequent discomfort in your legs is a common ache or if the discomfort is a symptom of a larger issue that requires treatment. If you’re unsure, seeing a vascular specialist is always a wise choice for help with the diagnosis and treatment of spider veins. Typically, spider veins aren’t painful and seldom cause any further issues or medical conditions. Nevertheless, if you’re experiencing pain or a lack of confidence because of visible spider veins, Vein & Laser Institute is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consult and receive 10% off a spider vein package if we find you’re a candidate for treatment.