They appear like delicate cobwebs beneath your skin — tiny red, blue and purple threads that weave their way across your legs in intricate patterns. These spider veins, though often harmless, can speak volumes to your confidence when shorts season arrives. But there's no need to hide your legs away or resign yourself to their permanent residence. Cosmetic sclerotherapy offers a gentle yet powerful solution that transforms those unwelcome vascular visitors into fading memories with just a few precise injections.
At The Vein Center of Florida & South Baldwin, Dr. Jimenez performs all sclerotherapy treatments personally, providing the expertise and individualized approach that has helped countless patients across the Florida Panhandle and along the Emerald Coast achieve excellent cosmetic results.
Spider veins are small blood vessels visible just beneath the skin’s surface. Also known as telangiectasias, they often resemble spider webs (hence their name) or tree branches and can be red, blue or purple in color. While they most commonly develop on the legs, telangiectasias can also appear on the face and other areas of the body.
Unlike varicose veins, which are larger, rope-like and often protrude from the skin, spider veins are generally flat and visible just beneath the skin’s surface. The causes of spider veins are often different from those of varicose veins, though they may be connected in some cases.
Spider veins develop when small blood vessels dilate and become visible beneath the skin. Their formation can be attributed to several factors, including:
While some spider veins, particularly larger ones on the legs, may be associated with venous insufficiency (a condition where damaged valves in veins allow blood to flow backward and pool), many spider veins develop independently of any underlying vein disorder. In fact, facial spider veins are commonly related to factors like sun exposure, rosacea or natural skin aging.
Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive treatment that involves injecting a specially formulated sclerosing solution directly into the affected spider veins. This solution irritates the blood vessel’s lining, causing it to swell and stick to itself. Over time, the vein turns into scar tissue that fades from view.
The procedure effectively "removes" spider veins by causing them to collapse and be absorbed by the body. Blood flow is rerouted through healthier veins, improving the appearance of your skin and sometimes alleviating associated symptoms like burning, aching or swelling.
"I'm very pleased! My veins have definitely improved and look so much better (hardly detectable after just a few months)! The entire staff is helpful, friendly and knowledgeable!"
– Katy
Sclerotherapy offers numerous advantages as a treatment for spider veins, such as:
Dr. Jimenez has helped numerous patients in the Florida Panhandle and along the Emerald Coast achieve excellent cosmetic results with sclerotherapy. Many of our patients express surprise at how quick, comfortable and effective their sclerotherapy treatments are, and they're delighted with their results.
Most individuals with spider veins are good candidates for sclerotherapy. The procedure is safe and effective for men and women of all skin types and tones. However, there are some exceptions. You may not qualify for sclerotherapy if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a history of blood clots or clotting disorders, or have an active infection in the area to be treated. Sclerotherapy patients should be able to wear compression stockings after treatment and temporarily discontinue taking blood thinners before and after treatment.
During your consultation with Dr. Jimenez, he will thoroughly evaluate your vein health and medical history to determine if cosmetic sclerotherapy is right for you.
When you arrive for your sclerotherapy treatment at The Vein Center, you'll be made comfortable in our treatment room.
The procedure typically follows these steps:
At The Vein Center, Dr. Jimenez performs all sclerotherapy injections himself. This personalized care means your treatment is tailored to your specific needs and vein patterns.
Recovery from sclerotherapy is usually quick and uncomplicated. Patients can resume most everyday activities immediately following treatment. However, there are some important aftercare instructions to follow. Avoid alcoholic beverages and anti-inflammatory medications for at least 48 hours. Wear your compression stockings as directed, typically for one to two weeks. Walk regularly to promote circulation, but avoid strenuous exercise for one to two weeks. Keep the treated area out of direct sunlight for two weeks after your procedure. It's also important to avoid hot baths, saunas and hot tubs during this same time period. Throughout your recovery, try not to sit or stand in one position for extended periods, as this can impede optimal blood flow and healing.
Most sclerotherapy patients notice a significant improvement in the appearance of their spider veins within three to six weeks of treatment. Larger veins may take longer to respond, sometimes up to three months.
It's important to understand that while sclerotherapy is highly effective, it may not completely remove all spider veins in a single session. Depending on the extent and severity of your telangiectasias, multiple treatments scheduled four to six weeks apart may be needed for optimal results.
Once a vein has been successfully treated, it will not return. However, sclerotherapy cannot prevent new spider veins from forming in the future.
To maintain your results and reduce the likelihood of developing new spider veins, we recommend the following:
At The Vein Center of Florida & South Baldwin, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of vein disorders. Dr. Jimenez personally performs all sclerotherapy treatments, bringing years of expertise and a patient-centered approach to every procedure.
Our commitment to personalized care means you'll never be treated with a "one-size-fits-all" approach. Instead, Dr. Jimenez will tailor your sclerotherapy treatment to address your specific vein patterns, concerns and goals.
If you're ready to be rid of bothersome spider veins and show off your legs, cosmetic sclerotherapy at The Vein Center could be your solution. This simple, effective procedure can help restore the smooth, clear appearance of your skin with minimal discomfort and no downtime.
To learn more about how cosmetic sclerotherapy can help you, call The Vein Center of Florida & South Baldwin at 1-800-910-VEIN and request your complimentary vein screening today. Dr. Jimenez and our caring team look forward to helping you achieve the beautiful, vein-free legs you deserve.