Meet These 5 Minimally Invasive Spider Veins Treatments
What are spider veins? You’ve probably noticed those thin, web-like veins just beneath the surface of your skin, perhaps on your legs or face. These are spider veins—tiny blood vessels that have become twisted or enlarged. Spider veins can be unsightly, leaving you feeling self-conscious, especially when you want to wear shorts or skirts, and they’re often symptomatic of a more dangerous underlying condition known as chronic venous insufficiency. Thanks to advancements in vein care, you don’t have to live with them. There are several minimally invasive spider veins treatments that can help you regain smooth, clear skin.
At VIP Medical Group, we understand that dealing with spider veins is more than just a cosmetic concern. Our state-of-the-art vein clinics across the country offer cutting-edge treatments that not only address the appearance of spider veins but also target the root causes. In this guide, we’ll walk you through five of the most effective minimally invasive spider veins treatments so you can make an informed decision about your vein health. Contact us to schedule a consultation and request free insurance verification before your first appointment.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is one of the most common and effective treatments for spider veins. During this procedure, your vein specialist injects a solution directly into the affected veins, causing them to collapse and eventually fade away as your body reabsorbs them. The solution, usually a saline or foam-based agent, irritates the vein walls, making them stick together. As a result, blood flow is redirected to healthier veins, and over time, the spider veins shrink and disappear. This treatment is especially effective for smaller spider veins on the legs and face.
What to Expect After Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is quick and minimally invasive, requiring little to no downtime. You may experience mild bruising or swelling, but these symptoms typically subside within a few days. You can resume most normal activities immediately, though your doctor may recommend wearing compression stockings for a short period to promote healing.
Is It Covered by Insurance?
While spider veins are often considered a cosmetic issue, sclerotherapy may be covered by insurance if it’s deemed medically necessary due to underlying venous insufficiency. Contact us to request free insurance verification to see if you’re eligible for coverage.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is another treatment for spider veins, particularly for those who prefer a non-invasive option. Unlike sclerotherapy, which uses injections, laser therapy uses concentrated light energy to target the veins. During a laser treatment, your vein specialist directs intense light pulses at the spider veins. The heat from the laser damages the vein, causing it to collapse and be absorbed by the body. Laser therapy is ideal for smaller veins in sensitive areas like the face.
What to Expect After Laser Therapy
You may feel a slight tingling sensation during the procedure, but it is generally well-tolerated. After the treatment, you can expect mild redness or swelling, which should subside within a few hours to a few days. Multiple sessions may be required for optimal results, depending on the extent of your spider veins.
Is It Covered by Insurance?
Laser therapy for spider veins is typically considered cosmetic. If you want a treatment that stands a better chance of being covered, you should consider sclerotherapy and address the root cause of your vein problems.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive treatment often used for larger spider veins or varicose veins. This technique uses heat generated by radiofrequency energy to close off problematic veins. A small catheter is inserted into the affected vein, and radiofrequency energy is applied to heat the vein walls. This causes the vein to collapse and seal shut. The body eventually absorbs the closed vein, and blood is rerouted to healthier veins.
What to Expect After RFA
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during RFA and can resume their normal activities within 24 to 48 hours. Mild bruising and swelling may occur, but they usually resolve quickly. Compression stockings are often recommended for a few days to aid in healing.
Is It Covered by Insurance?
RFA is often covered by insurance because it’s used to treat varicose veins and underlying chronic venous insufficiency.
Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT)
Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) is similar to radiofrequency ablation but uses laser energy instead of radiofrequency waves to treat spider veins and larger varicose veins. EVLT is a popular choice for patients looking for a minimally invasive solution. Like RFA, EVLT involves inserting a thin laser fiber into the affected vein. The laser heats and seals the vein, causing it to collapse. Over time, the body naturally absorbs the treated vein, improving circulation and reducing the appearance of spider veins.
What to Expect After EVLT
EVLT is performed under local anesthesia, making the process nearly painless. After the procedure, you may experience minor bruising or tenderness, but most patients return to their normal activities within a day or two. Compression stockings may be recommended for a short period to support the healing process.
Is It Covered by Insurance?
EVLT is generally covered by insurance when treating venous insufficiency or varicose veins.
Compression Therapy
Compression therapy is a non-invasive method for managing and preventing spider veins. While it’s not a treatment in the traditional sense, it is often recommended as part of a comprehensive care plan for vein health. Compression therapy involves wearing specially designed stockings that apply pressure to your legs, promoting better blood flow and preventing blood from pooling in the veins. This can prevent the formation of new spider veins and support the healing of treated veins.
What to Expect with Compression Therapy
Compression therapy is a conservative treatment option, often used in conjunction with other spider veins treatments like sclerotherapy. It can help reduce swelling, relieve discomfort, and prevent the progression of venous insufficiency. There’s no downtime, and it’s easy to incorporate into your daily routine.
Is It Covered by Insurance?
Compression therapy is frequently covered by insurance, especially if prescribed by a vein specialist as part of a treatment plan for venous insufficiency.
Which Is the Right Spider Veins Treatment for Me?
The best spider veins treatment for you depends on several factors, including the size, location, and severity of your spider veins. A consultation with a board-certified vein doctor at VIP Medical Group can help determine the most appropriate vein treatment for your condition. Our specialists use advanced diagnostic tools, such as duplex ultrasound, to assess the root cause of your spider veins and create a personalized treatment plan.
Most of our minimally invasive vein treatments are covered by insurance if venous insufficiency is diagnosed. Even if you believe your condition is purely cosmetic, it’s worth scheduling a consultation to explore your options. We have vein clinics across New York, Long Island, New Jersey, Maryland, and California, so you can easily find a vein clinic near your location. Contact us to request free insurance verification and start your journey to healthier veins.
