Spider Vein Blues
June 20, 2017 - Rhys Branman, MD
Have you begun to notice strange, new patterns and lines appearing on your legs? As we age our veins can become more visible in the form of varicose veins and spider veins. Varicose veins are puffy, enlarged veins that swell and become raised above the skin surface. Varicose veins are caused by venous insufficiency. The one way valves that prevent blood from flowing back to our feet have become weak or damaged. Spider veins are similar to varicose veins but much smaller. These are capillaries that form red or bluish networks of “spider web” looking lines on the skin. Spider veins can cover a small or larger area of the skin almost anywhere on the body, but usually on the legs or face. Spider veins can also be caused by venous insufficiency, or hormone changes, exposure to the sun, and injuries.
Varicose and spider veins affect about half of all people over 50 years old. Age, hormonal factors, pregnancy, lack of movement, medical history, obesity and sun exposure all affect the development of these unsightly reminders of age. Varicose veins can cause medical problems and may need to be treated with sclerotherapy, or by wearing compression stockings to prevent complications. However, spider veins rarely cause any medical problems; they are purely a cosmetic issue. And of course you will notice them on your legs more because of gravity, and your face because of sun exposure. These are two parts of your body you want to be able to bare with confidence! So what can be done?
If you want your legs free of these annoying little spider vein lines, the first step is to be accurately diagnosed; this is usually done by a vein specialist using ultrasound. If you need help with varicose or spider veins when consulting for a cosmetic procedure at Little Rock Cosmetic Surgery Center, we can point you in the right direction. We perform laser vein treatment for the face, and can suggest options to consider for other unsightly veins.
Dr. Branman
Call Melinda, my Patient/Surgery Coordinator to set up your consultation. 501 227-0707
