Spider veins are tiny blood vessels that are just under the surface of the skin and usually have a reddish-purple color. The veins are sometimes called broken veins, but they are actually slightly enlarged.
Spider veins may resemble a net or star, or have branches that radiate from a single vein. They can develop anywhere on the body but are most often seen on the face and legs. The cause is increased pressure in the veins, and the best treatment is a laser.
Laser treatment for spider veins is a fast, easy and effective way to treat this condition. There are different types of lasers, each with a different wavelength of light. The laser targets the pigment in the blood, heating the vein and destroying it. Because of its precise focus, it does not damage the skin or surrounding tissue.
During laser treatment for spider veins, the laser passes through the skin and penetrates the affected blood vessel. It creates heat that coagulates the blood, so the vessel collapses and seals. In a few weeks, the vessel will be absorbed by the surrounding tissue and disappear. The latest technology allows for precision targeting of the spider vein, without affecting the skin or healthy blood vessels.
During your consultation with our specialist, your symptoms may be evaluated to determine if you are a good candidate for laser therapy. Since spider veins are not dangerous, their removal is for cosmetic purposes only. However, on the legs, they may accompany varicose veins. If you also have varicose veins, a different treatment may be prescribed for them because laser treatment is most effective on small veins and not for large varicose veins.
The procedure is done in our office and takes from 10 to 20 minutes depending on the veins. Anesthesia is not usually required with laser treatment for spider veins.
After the treatment, we may recommend you wear support stockings for a few weeks to facilitate healing. There is little discomfort, but you may take over-the-counter medication if you want. You can go back to work or assume your usual daily activities right after the treatment.
Spider veins may not be dangerous to your health, but they are very unsightly. Laser treatment for spider veins may be able to remove them completely. To see if this treatment could benefit you, talk with the experts at Beach Cities Vein and Laser Center. Our office is located in El Segundo, but we happily serve the Los Angeles area as well. Contact us today to schedule your consultation to learn more.