If you have unwanted leg veins, they are most likely in the form of either varicose or spider veins. Both conditions are caused by a form of venous insufficiency, which means that the blood is not flowing through the vessels as it should. As a result, these veins can become enlarged and are often visible through the skin. The basic difference in varicose and spider veins is the size of the affected vessels. We can treat both types of veins with sclerotherapy.
Varicose veins almost always form in the legs. A common cause of their development is faulty valves inside the veins. These valves are there to permit the blood to flow in only one direction, which is toward the lungs and heart. Since, in the case of the leg veins, this means the blood is pumped against the gravitational pull for much of the time, faulty valves can mean the blood will try to flow backward. This backwards flow working against the natural pumping action of the heart will cause the blood to pool inside the vessels, which causes them to become enlarged. When this happens, varicose veins are the result.
Spider veins develop in the capillaries that branch off from the larger blood vessels. Like varicose veins, they frequently develop in the legs. Unlike varicose veins, they are common on the face and chest as well. They get their name because of their resemblance to the legs or web of a spider. They often have sharp turns like a spider’s legs. They can also appear woven together like the web of a spider. Because they appear this way instead of isolated veins being visible here and there, their presence is more noticeable.
Spider veins are seldom a reason for worry as far as health risks are concerned. Their impact is usually limited to that of a cosmetic nature only. This, however, is enough to cause self-esteem problems for many people. Others seek treatment because they simply do not like the way they look. Still, others want to get rid of them to look younger, since they are sometimes associated with aging.
Varicose veins impact the appearance, but they can cause health problems as well. People with these veins often experience aching, numbness and tingling. They can also put a person at a higher risk of developing blood clots.
If you have spider or varicose veins that you want removed, ask our medical professionals about sclerotherapy. It is a tried and proven method that has minimal risk of complications. It can also be done right here in our office, after which you can return to your normal duties without the need for a recovery period.
Sclerotherapy is done when a solution is injected into the targeted veins in order to make them close off and disappear. We are proud to use Asclera® during our procedures. It will irritate the walls of the vessels and cause them to stick together. The vessels that are treated will then turn into scar tissue that will be absorbed by the body over the following months.
If you have unwanted spider or varicose veins and want a treatment that is both safe and effective, consider sclerotherapy. We can explain the benefits to you in more detail at The Institute of Aesthetic Surgery, with offices in Celebration and Altamonte Springs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment to find out if sclerotherapy is right for you.
