Spider and Varicose Veins
Spider veins are dilated blood vessels directly below the surface of the skin. They can appear red or blue, and are most commonly found on the legs but can also be found on the face and other areas of the body. They are usually not uncomfortable, but can be considered unsightly or embarrassing.
There is no definite known cause of spider veins. They appear on both men and women, and occur more frequently on people who are overweight, lead a sedentary lifestyle, or in women who are pregnant or are on birth-control. While spider veins cannot be totally prevented, it helps to exercise regularly, eat a high fiber diet, and wear low-heeled shoes.
At Rao Dermatology, we treat spider veins with two different types of laser. Our doctors will help you determine which device is better suited to your skin type and condition. The number of treatments necessary will depend on the condition of the skin, and on the comfort level and preferences of the patient. A more aggressive approach can result in some discoloration for a few days or weeks afterward but require less treatments, while a less aggressive approach may require more treatments, but require less recovery time. Your doctor may recommend using the laser on a "test" area at least several days before your actual treatment. For all laser treatments, it is recommended that the skin have as little sun exposure, or "tan" as possible.
The sensation of laser spider vein removal is often compared to being snapped by a rubber band. If you find it too uncomfortable, your doctor may recommend a topical anesthetic before the treatment.