Leg Spider Veins

SCLEROTHERAPY

Legs you can love

Spider veins on the legs are small dilated blood vessels that have a red or bluish color. Their exact cause is unknown, but heredity, pregnancy, and hormonal influences are believed to be responsible for their formation. They are different from varicose veins which are abnormally swollen and enlarged blood vessels that are raised above the skin’s surface. Spider veins are flat and tend to arborize like tree branches in the skin. They sometimes cover large areas on the thighs and legs. These vessels serve no useful purpose and can be quite unattractive. Sometimes they produce a dull aching pain in the legs after prolonged standing.

How are spider veins treated?

Although lasers have proven to be effective in the treatment of facial spider veins, their use on the legs has been disappointing. Injection sclerotherapy remains the gold standard for the treatment of spider veins on the legs. In this procedure, a sclerosing agent consisting of sterile hypertonic saline is injected with a very fine microneedle into the unwanted blood vessel. The solution irritates the lining of the vessel, causing it to swell slightly and stick together. Immediately after injection, some patients may experience a moderate but temporary burning sensation or cramping which resolves after a few seconds. Over a period of weeks to months the treated vessels fade, eventually becoming barely noticeable or invisible.

The number of treatments needed to clear or improve spider veins varies from patient to patient, depending on the size and nature of the blood vessels. The majority of patients, however, can expect at least 75% improvement of their spider veins.

Before

6 Weeks After

14 Weeks After

What are the advantages of having sclerotherapy performed at Arboretum Dermatology?

Your procedure will be personally performed by Dr. Van Gurp, a board-certified dermatologist with more than 15 years experience with injection sclerotherapy of leg veins. Prior to your procedure, Dr. Van Gurp will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and determine the safest and most effective treatment for you. Dr. Van Gurp utilizes 23.4 % sterile saline for his injections, a sclerosant that requires skillful and precise injection but delivers the best results.

How do I schedule a consultation?

Dr Van Gurp and his staff will be happy to discuss the best treatment plan for you. Simply
schedule a consultation on this website.

Contact Us


Simply call our office, 704-541-6001, to schedule an appointment.

Office Hours
Monday: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Tuesday: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Wednesday: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Thursday: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Friday: 08:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed