Spider Veins
Spider veins, medically known as telangiectasias, are tiny, damaged blood vessels that appear as thin, web-like clusters right beneath the surface of the skin. Typically red, purple, or blue, these micro-vessels most commonly develop on the legs and face. While spider veins are smaller than bulging varicose veins or deeper blue reticular veins, they are frequently connected to an underlying “feeder” vein under the skin. Though often considered a purely cosmetic issue, they can sometimes cause mild physical discomfort and indicate early-stage circulation issues.
BEFORE
AFTER
For many people, the primary symptom of spider veins is their highly visible, web-like appearance on the thighs, calves, ankles, or face. However, they can also cause subtle, uncomfortable physical symptoms, including:
Mild Aching or Heaviness: A localized, tired, or heavy sensation in the legs, especially at the end of the day.
Itching or Burning: An annoying itching, tingling, or warm sensation in the skin surrounding the vein clusters.
Minor Swelling: Mild puffiness or swelling around the ankles or lower legs after prolonged standing.
Skin Tenderness: A slight sensitivity or tenderness to the touch over the affected area.
The primary cause of spider veins is high pressure within the superficial venous system, often related to mild chronic venous insufficiency. Healthy veins rely on tiny, one-way valves to push blood back up to the heart. When these valves stretch or weaken, small amounts of blood pool back down. This localized pressure causes the microscopic capillaries closest to the skin to expand, twist, and become visible.
Genetics: A family history of spider veins or varicose veins is the single strongest predictor.
Hormonal Fluctuations: Significant shifts in estrogen and progesterone (during pregnancy, menopause, or from oral contraceptives) can relax vein walls.
Prolonged Immobility: Sitting or standing for hours at a time restricts healthy calf muscle pumping and blood flow.
Sun Exposure & Trauma: UV damage or minor skin injuries can break fragile facial capillaries, leading to facial spider veins.
We offer modern, virtually painless, in-office treatments designed to eliminate unsightly clusters and remove the underlying pressure sources so they don’t return.
Sclerotherapy
Surface Laser Therapy
Conservative Management
When it comes to your circulatory health, you deserve specialized, compassionate care. At Vein and Wound Center of LA, we stand out because we focus entirely on your long-term relief and recovery:
Our vein specialists possess advanced training in vascular medicine and complex wound care, ensuring you receive the highest standard of medical excellence.
We utilize the latest in-office diagnostic ultrasound and minimally invasive laser technologies for highly precise, targeted treatments.
Because we specialize in both vein health and wound care, we are uniquely equipped to treat everything from early-stage spider veins to advanced varicose veins and complex venous ulcers.
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all treatments. We design a personalized care plan tailored specifically to your lifestyle, medical history, and recovery goals.
Step 1: Consultation & Ultrasound: We carefully evaluate your skin. If your spider veins are extensive, we use ultrasound to ensure a deeper, hidden vein isn’t causing the problem.
Step 2: Customized Treatment: Your procedure is performed right here in our comfortable LA clinic. Sessions are highly efficient, usually lasting just 15 to 30 minutes.
Step 3: Recovery & Follow-Up: Walk right out of your appointment and resume your regular day. We provide simple post-care tips to maximize your clearing results.
Yes. Randomized and controlled studies show sclerotherapy clears telangiectasias and reticular veins more effectively than placebo.
Laser treatment is best for very small (<1 mm) spider veins, facial veins, or in patients with needle phobia or sclerosant allergy. It may be a good option as well for people who have large amounts of scattered, diffuse telangectasias.
If symptoms or patterns suggest reflux, ultrasound helps identify underlying disease.
Short-term compression may improve cosmetic outcomes and reduce minor side effects. Evidence is mixed, so we tailor it to each patient.
Multiple sessions are common, especially for dense clusters. Temporary pigmentation, bruising, or matting may occur; pigmentation typically fades over time.
Don’t let heavy, aching legs or visible varicose veins hold you back from living your life to the fullest. Schedule a consultation with our vein specialists today to receive a personalized treatment plan.
Call us and take the first step towards healthier, pain-free legs.
