Spider veins

Spider veins, medically known as telangiectasias, are tiny dilated capillaries that are visible just under the skin’s surface on the legs, face, and chest. They are named such because they are red or purple and often resemble a tangled spiders web or the tiny legs of a spider.

Although they are connected to the venous system, spider veins are not an essential part of it. Thus, closing them down has no adverse effect on the body. In fact, these tiny veins are often associated with mild symptoms of itching, burning or aching. If your spider veins are symptomatic, closing them down usually resolves these symptoms.

Unfortunately; insurance does not cover treatment of these veins unless they are caused by increased pressure in larger symptomatic varicose veins. For this reason, a complete duplex ultrasound examination is usually performed during the initial visit to evaluate and “map” the underlying larger veins.

If the ultrasound exam reveals normal circulation within the Saphenous veins, sclerotherapy is the treatment of choice for small varicose and spider veins.

Sclerotherapy is a simple procedure in which a solution (called a sclerosing agent) is injected using a micro-needle into the unwanted veins. The solution causes a mild inflammatory response within the vein wall causing it to collapses and become naturally absorbed by the body. This procedure usually causes minimal to no pain. Dr. Moskowitz uses only FDA approved medications with a long record of safety for treatment of all unwanted veins.

Fading of the veins occurs gradually over a period of several weeks.

The number of treatment sessions needed typically ranges from two to six and is determined by the severity of the problem and the desired cosmetic result.

After each treatment, the patient is required to wear special support stockings to aid in closure of the veins and improve cosmetic outcome.

Patients are encouraged to return to regular (non-vigorous) activities immediately after treatment to increase blood flow through healthier veins.

Dr. Kimberly Moskowitz of the Cosmetic Vein & Laser Center has treated thousands of vein patients using sclerotherapy, laser and EVLT (Endovenous Laser Treatment). If you have questions regarding any of the vein treatments performed in our office, please call for a complimentary initial consultation. We look forward to meeting your needs.