Face Doctors Clinic is able to treat spider or reticular veins. These veins are generally smaller than varicose veins, which are usually over 3mm wide. Reticular veins are small blue veins, which can have a ropy appearance and are usually found on the back of the leg. Spider veins are the smaller branches from reticular veins and don’t bulge out from the skin or cause discomfort. Spider veins can occur anywhere on the leg.

We cannot treat varicose veins which are larger and usually require ultrasound investigations and more invasive treatments.

They can be associated with genetics and gender (women are slightly more susceptible), however, other causes include hormones, prolonged standing and excessive weight. The risk can be minimised with exercise and compression stockings.

Sclerotherapy involves the injection, with a very fine needle, of a sclerosing agent or a chemical that causes the blood vessel to block off and collapse. Typically, it requires no anaesthesia. Upon completion, the leg is wrapped with compressing wrap to prevent the blood vessels from opening up. After one month, a patient may return for a repeat injection. Several injections may be required to achieve optimal results. Some skin discolouration may be expected due to released blood staining the skin, however, this typically fades over time.

Long pulsed laser is an advanced laser technology that emits pulsed laser energy at the right wavelengths and duration to target blood vessels. This heats up blood vessels causing them to shrink and collapse in a similar manner to sclerotherapy. It is a great option for those who prefer not to go under the needle. It can be used to cover treat larger areas that are affected with spider veins.