The Straight Facts on Thread Vein Removal
Posted on 14. May, 2009 by Valerie in Surgical Procedures
Thread veins, also known as spider veins, are red, purple, or blue veins that are very thin and easily visible on the legs. While they are somewhat of a mystery, doctors do know that heredity, hormones, and minor injuries can affect their chances of development and that they appear much more commonly in females than in males. While these veins pose no physical threat, they do affect self esteem for many people, and removal can have a positive effect on mental health.
Thread vein removal is typically done in one of two ways. In some cases, laser thread vein removal is used. In this treatment, a laser is used to create heat within the veins, causing the walls of the vessels to stick together and seal themselves off, preventing blood flow. When blood no longer flows through the vein, it is slowly absorbed by the body, though it may take up to three treatments for the vein to disappear.
In other cases, a treatment called microsclerotherapy is used. In this treatment, a non-toxic chemical is injected into the vein, which causes the walls to stick to one another to prevent blood flow, again causing the body to absorb the vein. Several treatments may be needed, but patients can expect up to a 90% improvement in the appearance of thread veins. In cases where a patient has both large and small thread veins, both procedures may be used.
The thread vein removal procedure is typically painless, but because discomfort can be felt with larger veins, topical anesthetics are sometimes used. The procedure is very fast and is done on an outpatient basis. The veins typically will not reoccur, but it is possible for new veins to develop over time. The area will heal quickly and without pain, but it is important for patients to keep the area out of sunlight and to keep it moisturized and to understand that small patches of blisters or crusting are normal and will disappear between a few hours and a few days following the procedure.
Thread vein removal is becoming a very common procedure, with many patients finding time for the procedure even during a short break from work. The procedure is remarkably safe, and with the right number of treatments and maintenance, can be highly effective. As with all cosmetic procedures, patients are advised to talk with their doctors to answer all questions before having thread vein removal performed.
