Clearing Spider Veins and Telangiecstasia
Spider Veins are tiny dilated veins near the surface of the skin. They are either red or blue and somewhat resemble a spider web (hence the name) or small tree branches. Usually on the leg and ankle, they are also seen on the face.
Telangiecstasia are clusters of very fine blood vessels (capillaries) more frequently on the face around the nose and the mid-cheek. Both spider veins and telangiecstasia are cosmetic concerns with little medical significance. They are easily removed or diminished by use of the Vbeam laser.
- Spider Veins (Most frequently on the thigh, ankle and lower leg)
- Facial Telangiecstasia
Spider Veins Los Angeles
” I was very frustrated by the little veins on my face. They got worse every year. Your treatment with the laser has been great. They are nearly completely gone and I’m even comfortable going without makeup. ” Barbara S.
Cause of Spider Veins
Pregnancy, hormone-containing medications, and hormonal fluctuations may stimulate the appearance of spider veins, making them more common in women. There is also some genetic factor involved for some who have family incidence of vein problems. Excessive sun, aggressive treatment of the skin and high alcohol intake can effect the number and severity of facial veins.
Treating Spider Veins and Telangiecstasia
The Vbeam laser is Dr. Zaks’ treatment of choice. Vbeam is a quick, efficient procedure with minimal discomfort. The laser causes the small vessels to heat up to a high enough temperature to cause coagulation. They then close off, shrink and eventually are absorbed by the body and disappear. To protect the skin while still allowing the laser light to penetrate to the “target” vessels, the Vbeam incorporates a special cooling device.
Risk Factors for Developing Spider Veins
Some people are at greater risk for developing spider veins. These risk factors include:
- Sex – Females in any age group are more likely than males to develop spider veins.
- Genetic factors – Some people have veins with abnormally weak walls or valves. They may develop spider veins even without a rise in blood pressure in the superficial veins.
- Pregnancy – A woman’s total blood volume increases during pregnancy, which increases the blood pressure in the venous system. In addition, the hormonal changes of pregnancy cause the walls and valves in the veins to soften.
- Using birth control pills.
- Obesity – Excess body weight increases pressure on the veins.
- Occupational factors – People whose jobs require standing or sitting for long periods of time without the opportunity to walk or move around are more likely to develop spider veins than people whose jobs allow more movement.
Pre-Treatment Advice
Patients do not have to change their normal routines before or after treatment. Sun exposure must be limited prior to and following any type of laser. Treatment should not be performed on tanned skin
Prevention of Spider Veins
Although it is impossible to completely prevent spider veins, there are several things you can do.
- Exercise regularly and maintain a normal weight
- If you are prone to leg spider veins, try not to sit for stand or prolonged periods of time
- Avoid high consumption of alcohol
- Treat your skin gently and avoid abrasive facial scrubs
- Protect your skin with sunscreen