Are you tired of hiding your legs or avoiding certain outfits because of unsightly spider veins? These small, thin blood vessels can appear on your face and legs, causing cosmetic concerns and even physical discomfort.Â
At Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, Illinois, we understand how spider veins can affect your confidence and quality of life. Our experienced doctors, Dr. Nael Gharbi and Dr. Shazel Gharbi, are here to help you achieve clear, beautiful skin through advanced laser treatments.
What Are Spider Veins and What Causes Them?
Spider veins, medically referred to as telangiectasias, are tiny, dilated blood vessels that are visible just under the skin. These veins often appear on the face and legs and resemble thin lines, tree branches, or spider webs.
Causes of Spider Veins:
Spider veins can develop due to several factors, including:
- Genetics:Â A family history of spider or varicose veins can raise the risk of developing them.
- Hormonal changes:Â Pregnancy, puberty, or menopause hormone shifts can all contribute to the development of spider veins.
- Age:Â As people age, the veins lose elasticity, making them more prone to dilation and the formation of spider veins.
- Occupation of lifestyle:Â Jobs or activities that require lengthy periods of standing or sitting can increase the likelihood of getting spider veins.
- Obesity:Â Excess weight can add pressure on veins and cause them to get bigger and form spider veins.
- Sun exposure:Â Excessive sun exposure can damage the skin and weaken blood vessels, contributing to the development of spider veins.
What Are the Symptoms of Spider Veins?
Symptoms associated with spider veins can include:
- Visible veins:Â Spider veins are easily noticeable, appearing as fine lines or clusters of veins on the skin, resembling spider webs or tree branches.
- Coloration:Â They can appear red, blue, or purple, depending on the depth and size of the affected blood vessels.
- Pain or discomfort:Â While spider veins typically do not cause physical symptoms, some individuals may experience aching, burning, or throbbing sensations, especially after prolonged standing or sitting.
- Itching:Â The affected area may feel itchy or irritated.
- Swelling:Â In some cases, spider veins can cause mild swelling around the affected area.
- Restless leg syndrome:Â Some individuals with spider veins may experience restless legs syndrome, a condition characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations.
Not everyone will have the same symptoms. Some people experience painful symptoms such as aching, burning, swelling, and cramping from spider veins, while others are simply bothered by their appearance.
How Is Laser Treatment for Spider Veins Conducted?
Laser treatment for spider veins is a popular, minimally invasive option often sought for cosmetic reasons or symptom relief. There are two types of laser treatments:
- Surface Laser Treatments: Non-invasive and ideal for veins just under the skin’s surface, often requiring multiple sessions.
- Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT):Â For larger veins, a thin laser fiber is inserted into the vein through a small incision, causing it to collapse and seal shut.
Dr. Nael Gharbi or Dr. Shazel Gharbi will conduct a physical examination and review your medical history to determine the best treatment plan. Then, the process usually goes as follows:Â
- Preparation:Â The treatment area is cleaned, and local anesthesia may be applied. Protective eyewear is provided to shield your eyes from the laser.
- Laser Therapy:Â The laser targets spider veins with focused light energy, causing the blood to coagulate and the veins to collapse and be absorbed by the body. This precise method leaves your surrounding skin undamaged.
- Post-Treatment Care:Â Compression stockings or bandages may be applied to reduce swelling and support healing. Normal activities can be resumed almost immediately, though strenuous exercise should be avoided temporarily.
- Follow-Up:Â Follow-up appointments ensure the treatment's success and address any concerns, with additional sessions scheduled as needed.
How Is EVLT Performed for Spider Vein Removal?
Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicose veins, rather than spider veins specifically. However, the technique can sometimes be used for smaller varicose veins and may also help improve the appearance of varicose veins.
Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the vein to be treated to minimize discomfort. The doctor then makes a small incision near the varicose vein, usually around the knee area or lower tight. He’ll then insert a thin laser fiber into the vein through this incision.
Laser energy is sent into the vein, forcing it to collapse and seal. This process redirects blood flow to healthier veins. After the treatment is complete, the laser fiber is removed, and a compression bandage or compression stocking may be applied to the treated area. Compression helps reduce swelling and promotes healing.
Why Choose Old Town Med Spa?
You’re in expert hands at Old Town MedSpa. Led by Drs. Nael and Shazel Gharbi, the MD Brothers, our clinic is dedicated to patient satisfaction. Both doctors are board-certified in Aesthetic Medicine and Internal Medicine, with endorsements from the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine. With over a decade of medical practice and plenty of experience in advanced cosmetic procedures, the MD Brothers bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to their work.Â
Whether you're seeking laser treatments, injectable solutions, or advanced skin care, we are here to help you look and feel your best.Â
Common FAQs About Spider Veins
Laser therapy precisely targets spider veins without damaging your surrounding skin. The procedure is minimally invasive with a short recovery time, providing long-lasting results and an improved skin appearance.
The level of discomfort experienced during spider vein treatment varies depending on the individual and the chosen method of treatment. Sclerotherapy and laser therapy are usually well-tolerated and only cause mild discomfort or a slight burning sensation. However, some patients may experience temporary bruising, swelling, or discomfort following treatment.
While it may not be possible to prevent spider veins entirely, you can reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding prolonged periods of sitting or standing, wearing compression stockings if recommended, exercising regularly, and protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure.
Spider veins are harmless and don't pose any significant health risks. However, they can cause discomfort or pain and, in rare cases, may indicate underlying venous insufficiency or circulation problems.
Spider veins may recur over time, especially if the root cause isn’t addressed or if predisposing factors such as genetics or hormonal changes persist. However, proper maintenance and follow-up care, along with lifestyle changes, might help reduce the risk of relapse.
Results from laser therapy can be long-lasting, but new spider veins may develop over time due to factors like genetics and lifestyle. Follow-up treatments and a healthy lifestyle can help maintain the best results.
While generally safe, laser therapy can cause temporary redness, swelling, bruising, or discomfort. Rare complications include skin discoloration or blistering. Our experienced doctors take precautions to minimize risks and ensure a safe treatment.
Most people with spider veins are good candidates, especially those in good health with realistic expectations. Laser therapy is effective for individuals with light to medium skin tones and veins close to the skin's surface. A consultation with our doctors will determine if this treatment is right for you.
Get Your Spider Veins Treated in Chicago, IL
You don’t have to live with spider veins. When you’re ready to discuss treatment options, reach out to Old Town Med Spa. Dr. Nael Gharbi or Dr. Shazel Gharbi will be happy to guide you through your spider vein treatment. Call one of our three locations in Chicago: (312) 643-1689 (Old Town), (312) 882-0700 (Lincoln Park), or (312) 643-1689 (Bucktown), or fill out our online form.
