Thread Vein Treatments
Leg Spider Veins
The most effective treatment for leg spider veins (known medically as telangiectasias) is Microsclerotherapy. A fine needle is used to inject a prescription medicine called a sclerosant into the broken veins. A healing process starts which results in the vein fading and becoming less noticeable. Typically, 3 treatments are required separated by 3 months. The process may take 12-18 months to complete.
To get the best results from treatment, it is very important to have a proper assessment of the whole vein system in the leg to see if there is any connection between the superficial thread veins and the deeper veins. This is very important, because if there is a connection, which is not treated, then back flow and high pressure will work against the treatment, making it less effective. At The Vein Care Centre, we specialize in the treatment of varicose veins and thread veins on the legs and an ultrasound examination of the whole vein system is part of the consultation.
Recent research has shown that nearly all thread veins have a ‘feeder’ vein nearby that also needs treatment. These veins are called reticular veins. As part of the consultation and examination, a careful search is made for these reticular veins.
When are spider veins a problem?
For most people, it is the unsightly appearance of the spider veins that causes embarrassment, poor self-esteem and lack of confidence. This is often the motivation for seeking help. For others, symptoms such as leg ache, throbbing and swelling may cause concern. Spider veins around the ankle may indicate a major problem with the function of veins below the skin and these spider veins should always be taken seriously. These veins are called “Corona Phlebectatica” also known as ankle flare. So spider veins around the ankle may actually be a health problem and always require a scan.
People with no symptoms, no ankle flare or varicose veins may be be treated by Micro-injections (Microsclerotherapy). Microsclerotherapy involves the injection of a prescription medicine into the vein. Microsclerotherapy is a very delicate injection procedure and requires skill and accuracy. The prescription medicine is called a sclerosant. It works by removing the delicate lining of the spider veins and a healing process starts which causes the vein to fade and disperse.
Face Spider Veins
Short wave diathermy (or electro-coagulation as it is sometimes called) is a very effective method for treating thread veins and spider veins on the face. A very fine needle is used to prick the skin over the thread veins and spider veins and then an electrical current is passed through the vein which is heated and sealed. Over the course of a few weeks, the vein withers and disperses and becomes much less noticeable. A mild anaesthetic cream is used to numb the area prior to treatment.
After treatment the skin may be pink or puffy in more sensitive areas but this will settle in a few hours. A healing process then starts and the final results will be apparent 4 to 6 weeks after treatment. The success rate for short wave diathermy to facial spider veins and thread veins is 95%.