**Varicose vein treatment:** Lasers are great tools for eliminating spider veins and small varicose veins. Our healthcare providers use a unique high-powered laser that can destroy unwanted veins without affecting the skin. The system also features innovative cooling technology that helps ensure patient comfort during the short procedure. While some patients may experience redness, swelling, or mild discoloration, side effects are generally minimal. There are no long-term side effects and no downtime. Most patients tolerate the procedure well. To completely clear unwanted veins, you may need multiple sessions.

Simple laser vein treatment is done on the outside of your skin. It can treat spider veins and tiny varicose veins just under the skin's surface. Usually, more than one laser session is needed. They are scheduled every 6 to 12 weeks, as prescribed by your doctor. (If you have poor blood circulation feeding these tiny veins, the larger "feeder" vein must first be treated with surgery, endovenous laser or radiofrequency treatment, or sclerotherapy.)

Thousands of people every year consider getting treatment for varicose veins and spider veins.

Varicose veins are visible and bulging veins often associated with symptoms such as tired, heavy, or aching legs. In severe cases, Varicose Veins can rupture, or cause ulcers. Varicose veins are most common in the legs and thighs but can sometimes be found in the groin.

"Spider Veins" are thread like veins that appear on the skin's surface. These may look like "starburst" clusters or a web-like maze. Spider veins are most common in the thighs, ankles and feet. They may also appear on the face and nose.

The causes of varicose and spider veins are not entirely understood. In some instances, the absence or weakness of valves in the veins allow the backward flow of blood away from the heart. This causes a build up of pressure in the veins resulting in outbursts of spider veins or bulging varicose veins. Less commonly, varicose veins are caused by diseases such as phlebitis or congenital abnormalities of the veins. Venous disease is generally progressive and cannot always be entirely prevented. However, in some cases wearing support hosiery and maintaining normal weight and regular exercise may be beneficial. Hormones, family history and long periods of standing are also thought to cause varicose veins.

Larger varicose veins can occur on their own or can underline spider veins. In most cases the varicose veins should be treated before spider veins. Sclerotherapy uses a fine needle to inject a solution directly into the vein. The solution irritates the lining of the vein, causing collapse of the inner lining and ultimately the vein. The vein turns into scar tissue that fades from view. Following the injection of the solution into the vein, it is important to apply compression such as bandages or stockings to the treated leg. This causes the collapsed vein wall to stick together and seal shut.

The microinjections are hardly felt and are virtually painless. The injected solution can cause a mild sting for several seconds, and the treated veins, if large, may feel a little sore for several days.

Injection sclerotherapy is a very safe procedure with very little risk. The treating doctor will discuss this with you in detail

In the large majority of patients, once the veins have sealed (sclerosed) the result is permanent.

Depending on the underlying causes of the veins, new veins may form over time, that will require further treatment.

Some patients may require ongoing maintenance of 1 - 2 treatments each year for recurring spider veins (just as regular haircuts are required for growing hair).

Visit *Angela Azar* Skin Practice or click here