Spider Veins

Spider veins (medically known as telangiectasias) are tiny (1-2mm) surface veins that resemble a spider web on the skin surface. Patients may have isolated surface spider veins, although in some patients the presence of spider veins may be an indication of underlying vein disease. Spider veins may not be bulging or painful like larger varicose veins, but they are still unsightly and cause for concern for many people.

Spider veins typically do not cause major symptoms and are thus usually considered a cosmetic issue. Some patients may complain of itching/burning at site of spider veins. Most patients will only have isolated spider veins, without any underlying venous disease, however spider veins may be an indication of presence of additional venous disease in the legs. If you experience symptoms of pain, throbbing, tiredness, swelling, heaviness or cramping, you may have additional disease within the larger veins of the legs.

Spider veins are treated with sclerotherapy (injecting tiny amount of irritant into the vein cause it to close).  Treatment sessions usually take around 45 minutes and usually 2-3 treatment sessions are needed for complete removal of these veins. Typically, spider veins are purely a cosmetic issue and usually not covered by insurance.

Learn more about Spider Veins.