spider-veinsSpider veins are not only unsightly they can also cause aching, burning, swelling, and even night cramps.  Dr. Lucas treats spider veins using laser therapy to assist patients in becoming more confident in the way that their skin looks, and feels.  Telangiectasia, also known as spider veins are those small clusters of red, blue or purple veins that commonly appear on thighs, calves, ankles,amps.

In most cases the exact cause isn’t always known, but spider veins are often times said to be caused by flow abnormalities within the varicose veins below the surface of the skin.  Gaining weight, sitting, standing for long periods of time, or sustaining injuries in affected areas have also been known to contribute to the development of spider veins.  Quite often women will develop spider veins during pregnancy.  Some experts have said that spider veins on the face can be caused by extreme exposure to the sun, or cold.

It is normal for patients to have 2-3 treatments. Some might require additional treatments depending upon the severity of the spider veins. We will treat as many veins as we can in one session.  Typically 15–20 minutes is all that’s needed to treat the areas containing spider veins, but treatment in severe cases can exceed 20 minutes.  When treated energy passes harmlessly through the skin and heats the hemoglobin in the blood causing the spider vein to shrivel up, and retreat from the surface of the skin. Once the laser collapses the spider vein, your body will then naturally absorb the spider vein.  Patients might feel a slight burning or stinging sensation when treated.  After being treated swelling or redness can occur.  Usually the redness or swelling disappears after a few days.  If desired, ice packs can be used to cool the area.  Often time multiple treatments are needed to clear up spider vein ridden areas.  The skin can at times take weeks to recover from the treatment. We ask that patients avoid strenuous activities after treatment.  Failure to do so can cause additional swelling, and redness.

Spider Veins Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What are spider veins?

A. Spider veins are small but unsightly clusters of tiny capillaries that appear as blue, red, or purple veins. They most commonly appear on the surface of the thighs, calves and ankles, but may also appear on the face. It has been estimated that at least 1/3 of adult females are troubled by this common condition. The exact cause in unknown, however we do know that they can be the result of chronic photo damage; as the skin becomes thinner, the vessels become more visible. We also know that spider veins are related to abnormal blood flow in those affected veins. Sitting, or standing for long periods of time, sustaining injuries in the affected area, or gaining weight can also be contributing factors. Spider veins on the face are related to extreme sun exposure.

Q. How are spider veins treated?

A. At Advanced Foot and Ankle Care of Memphis , we use the high-tech Q-Switch Nd: YAG laser to help erase and treat those unwanted spider veins. The laser’s energy destroys the spider veins, which the body then naturally absorbs in 5-10 days. No anesthesia is required, but patients may feel a slight stinging or burning sensation. The laser targets the pigment within the vein of the leg or face. Normally, the patient will see results within 1-3 treatments or as many as 5 or 6, depending on the severity of spider veins. Treatments are generally scheduled 4-6 weeks apart.

Q. How long does the procedure take?

A. The amount of time varies, depending on the size of the area being treated. Other factors include the severity of the problem. A normal appointment can take anywhere from a half hour to an hour. Your initial appointment will generally takes an additional 15 to fill out paperwork and to answer any questions that you may have.

Q. What can I expect after the spider vein treatment?

A. Some will experience a slight redness or swelling, but that will generally disappear within a few days and can be treated with ice packs. It may take upwards of two weeks for the treated area to heal. Patients may resume normal daily activities immediately, but we suggest that you avoid strenuous aerobic exercise for 4-7 days following treatment.

Q. How do I get started?

A. Please call today to set up an appointment at (901) 309-8898

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