314.849.0923

Spider Vein Treatment

Feel Good About Your Legs Again

What Are Spider Veins?

Spider veins (Telangiectasias) are small, dilated blood vessels just under the skin. When the valves in the blood vessels don’t work properly, the blood backs up and expands the vein to the point that it’s visible through the skin.

Spider veins are typically a cosmetic issue, but there’s always the possibility of an underlying condition. If they cause pain, we use a venous ultrasound to determine if there are disorders in the deeper veins.

Sclerotherapy - Our Advanced Spider Vein Treatments

Dr. Krikorian continuously looks for better ways to treat spider veins. He never limits your options to standard procedures, but looks for the most forward-thinking treatments and technology from around the globe.

Features of Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to eliminate varicose veins and spider veins. It involves the injection of a solution directly into the vein, which irritates the lining of the blood vessel, causing it to collapse and stick together. Over time, the vessel turns into scar tissue that fades from view. This treatment is particularly popular for cosmetic reasons, as it can reduce the appearance of varicose and spider veins, which are often seen as unsightly. Beyond aesthetics, sclerotherapy also offers relief from pain and discomfort associated with these vein conditions.

Minimally
Invasive

Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical procedure that does not require anesthesia. It is performed in a doctor's office and typically takes less than an hour, depending on the number and size of veins being treated.

Different Sclerosants Types

The sclerosing agent used can vary depending on the size and location of the veins. Solutions can be in the form of a liquid or foam, the latter being used for larger veins as it can cover a larger area within the vein.

Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy

For veins that are not visible on the surface, ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy allows for the treatment of veins that are hidden deeper under the skin, ensuring accuracy and effectiveness.

Immediate
Recovery

Most patients can immediately resume their regular activities, although heavy exercise and certain medications may be advised against for a short period following the procedure.

Before & After

"I’ve treated thousands of people with spider veins, and it brings me joy to see how happy they are with the results. It really improves your quality of life when you can wear what you like and feel good about your legs." - Dr. Krikorian

Benefits of Sclerotherapy

The primary benefit for many is the significant improvement in the appearance of their legs (or other treated areas), as varicose and spider veins can be effectively diminished or eliminated.

The procedure has a good safety profile, with serious complications being rare. Some patients might experience minor side effects, such as bruising, redness, or itching at the injection site, but these typically subside quickly.

Sclerotherapy can alleviate symptoms associated with varicose and spider veins, including aching, swelling, burning, and night cramps. 

Sclerotherapy has been shown to be effective in eliminating varicose and spider veins in treated areas 50-80% of the time. If veins do not respond to the first treatment, the procedure can be repeated to achieve the desired outcome.

The removal of visible veins can lead to improved self-esteem and confidence for many people, as they no longer feel the need to hide their legs.

Sclerotherapy is a well-established procedure for the treatment of varicose and spider veins, combining the benefits of minimal invasiveness, effectiveness, and a relatively quick recovery. Its ability to not only improve the cosmetic appearance of the legs but also alleviate uncomfortable symptoms makes it a popular choice for individuals seeking relief from these common vein conditions.

Spider Veins Treatment - Before & After

Get Treated Sooner

Because we’re highly specialized, with seven treatment locations in the St. Louis area, we’re able to schedule your exam and treatment much sooner than other facilities. Call us at 314-849-0923 or complete this contact form to get started.

Schedule a Consultation

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What To Expect

Consultation

When you arrive, you’ll complete a new patient form, which will ask you to list all your current medications. Wear or bring a pair of shorts for the exam, or we can provide a pair. Then we’ll take your vital signs. Dr. Krikorian will discuss your concerns, examine your spider veins, and determine if treatment is recommended.

Procedures

We will likely treat your spider veins with sclerotherapy, an injection of a medical solution that closes off damaged veins. This is an in-office treatment which we can schedule after your consultation. Learn more about sclerotherapy.

Recovery

After the procedure, we’ll wrap your legs in ace bandages. You’ll be able to resume normal activities, and remove the bandages 1-2 days later.

"No More Pain"

MaryAnn R.

My daughter could not believe how good my legs looked! She is going to see Dr. Krikorian too. I was completely satisfied with my treatment and am no longer in pain. The result is fantastic and I highly recommend going to see Dr. Krikorian if you are experiencing any leg pain.

"I Walked 2 Miles the Next Day!"

Shirley M.

I had suffered with varicose veins for years. I recently went to see Dr. Krikorian at Virtue Vein & Lymphatic Center where he told me everything I needed to know about vein disease and the treatment options. He performed a laser ablation on my diseased vein, and I was able to resume my normal activity the day after my procedure!

"They Listen Very Well!"

Jeff K.

Dr. Krikorian is a busy man, but he will take the time necessary to really listen to you and figure out what the problem is. Most doctors these days seem to be talking to the computer, and not the person. Well, here it is the other way around.

"Very Knowledgable!"

Happy Patient

After my stress test was normal, Dr. Krikorian explained that the test was around 70% accurate and that I should pay close attention to my body for any warning signs. A few weeks later I was exercising when my energy was zapped in less than 10 minutes and I had a pain under the sternum. I called Dr. Krikorian and he scheduled a cardiac catheterization the next day. He said I showed no sign of a heart attack but he found a 99% blockage in the circumflex artery, which he opened with a stent. I am grateful that he explained possible warning signs and then responded quickly with the catheterization and stent.

"My Leg is Feeling So Much Better!"

Marlene G.

Dr. Krikorian performed a laser ablation to treat the vein disease in my right leg. I didn’t even realize how much my left leg hurt from varicose veins until he fixed my right leg! I thought the treatment would be painful, so I was so pleasantly surprised to find that it wasn’t.

Spider Veins FAQ

Why do I have spider veins?

There are many causes, heredity, obesity, injury, hormone changes – and sometimes the cause is unknown. They’re most common in people over 30 and pregnant women.

Is treatment covered by insurance?

Spider veins are considered cosmetic, so the treatment is not covered.

Are spider veins and varicose veins the same thing?

No. However, superficial spider veins are likely the cause of an underlying deeper vein abnormality.

Does the treatment hurt?

No. We use minimally invasive injections, similar to a vaccine, but not as deep.

Will my spider veins come back after treatment?

Spider veins can return and may require a second treatment. If the provider believes two treatments will be needed, we offer a discounted rate if they are paid for together.

Is there a way to prevent spider veins?

Weight management and exercise helps. Avoid sitting for more than a half hour at a time and consider wearing 20-30 mmHg compression stockings.

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