Although typically not a medical concern, spider and varicose veins can be unsightly and sometimes even painful. Appearing on the legs and the face, there are countless possible causes of these visible veins, but only a handful of proven treatments. Dermatology Associates of Atlanta provider Kathryn Filipek MPAS, PA-C performs sclerotherapy, Veinwave™ vein elimination, laser vein treatment, Vbeam Perfecta ™, and FotoFacial® treatments to reduce the appearance of these veins.

It is important to understand that spider and varicose veins do not serve a purpose and do not function normally, so vein reduction treatment is safe. Spider veins are branch-like veins that often show up on the legs and face. Varicose veins are also commonly found on the legs, appearing as swollen or raised blood vessels beneath the skin’s surface. Prior to the aforementioned technologies at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta’s Atlanta Center for Veins, more invasive techniques were used to treat veins like vein stripping (vein litigation) or the surgical removal of unwanted veins. Now, it’s easier than ever for patients to get rid of their spider and varicose veins.

The type of vein treatment used to treat spider and varicose veins depends on the size of the unwanted veins present. During a consultation, we will determine which treatment will best meet your specific needs. Sclerotherapy is a procedure to reduce varicose veins in which a sclerosing agent is injected into the veins. The sclerosing agent works by shrinking and minimizing the appearance of the damaged vein. Depending on the size of the vein, varicose veins can usually be removed in three to four treatment sessions.

Patients with spider veins may benefit from Veinwave™ vein elimination. Veinwave™ eliminates spider veins on the face and legs through the use of ultrafine needles and heat without a risk of skin discoloration (hyperpigmentation). This minimally invasive treatment is applied subepidermally and only penetrates the top layer of skin. It does not penetrate the vein itself. Most patients reach their desired results in just one treatment, but an additional treatment session may be necessary for maximum results depending on the size of the veins.

Patients who wish to remove spider veins from their face can receive FotoFacial® IPL treatment to minimize the appearance of spider veins and even rosacea symptoms without impacting the surface of the delicate facial skin. FotoFacial® treatment not only targets and reduces the appearance of spider veins, but it also stimulates collagen production and minimizes wrinkles. Most patients receive four to six FotoFacial® treatments for optimal results. Our V-beam Perfecta™ laser that we often use to treat patients with rosacea symptoms in the Laser Institute of Georgia provides an alternative laser treatment for spider veins. Using micropulse technology, the V-beam laser successfully reduces the appearance of spider veins while also reducing redness and inflammation often associated with rosacea.

If you’re concerned with spider or varicose veins, schedule a consultation with Kathryn Filipek today so she can help you determine which treatment method will best meet your needs. Visit our website to learn more about other skin conditions and treatments, as well as cosmetic procedures performed in Dermatology Associates of Atlanta’s eight specialty centers. If you haven’t already, be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for skin care news and updates.