When you think of spider veins, those red and blue networks that frequently appear on the legs probably come to mind. However, spider veins are not restricted to the veins in the lower legs. In fact, the visible vessels can appear nearly anywhere on the body. The good news is that no matter where spider veins appear, there is an effective treatment to eliminate their unsightly appearance. At Windward Vein, we offer a variety of treatments for spider veins, even those that appear in places you might not expect.

Facial Veins

Facial veins can be particularly stressful since they appear in such a visible location. These veins may be caused by a number of factors:

• Sun damage
• Conditions like rosacea
• Trauma to the skin
• Pregnancy
• Hormonal fluctuations
• Use of steroids

While you may be able to camouflage smaller, lighter facial veins behind makeup, more prominent veins may require treatment to eliminate them permanently. At Windward Vein, we typically treat facial veins using our state-of-the-art laser device. The procedure takes less than one hour to complete and there is no downtime afterward. While many patients see desired results after a single treatment session, others may require a second session for the best outcome.

Breast Veins

Visible veins can also appear on the breasts, often a result of the following:

• Pregnancy or nursing
• Hormonal fluctuations
• Breast augmentation surgery
• Aging

Fortunately, spider veins on the breast are not serious, even if they are unattractive. They can also be effectively eliminated through a procedure known as foam sclerotherapy. During this procedure, a foam solution is injected directly into the visible vein using a very small needle. The solution irritates the lining of the vein walls, sealing the vein closed. The vessel can be reabsorbed by the body and blood is rerouted to healthy veins nearby.

Sclerotherapy is a relatively quick procedure that is performed right in our office. There is little discomfort associated with the treatment and patients usually return to their regular activities immediately following the procedure. Some patients will require a second treatment session to achieve full results.

Foot Veins

Both spider and varicose veins can appear on the feet. In some cases, these veins are due to an underlying condition known as venous insufficiency – the same condition that leads to varicose veins on the legs. Veins in the lower legs and feet can become damaged over time as these vessels have to work much harder to move blood back up the body to the heart. The damage allows blood to reflux inside the veins, leading to swelling and varicosity.

Foot veins are generally treated differently than spider veins on the face or breasts. While smaller, superficial spider veins may be treated with sclerotherapy, large protruding veins are often eliminated via a procedure known as phlebectomy. During this procedure, tiny incisions and a special tool are used to remove the vein in small segments. The incisions may or may not require suturing, but scarring after the procedure is generally minimal either way. Patients are usually able to return to their daily activities within 24 hours.

If you are concerned about visible veins on your legs or other areas of the body, the staff at Windward Vein can help. Call us today at 808-797-2687 to find out which vein treatment is right for you.