Sclerotherapy

Spider veins--known in the medical world as telangiectasias, or sunburst varicosities--are small, thin veins that lie close to the surface of the skin. Although these super-fine veins are connected with the larger venous system, they are not an essential part of it. A number of factors contribute to the development of spider veins, including heredity, pregnancy and other hormonal shifts, weight gain, occupations or activities that require prolonged sitting or standing, and the use of certain medications.

Millions of women are bothered these unsightly clusters of red, blue or purple veins that most commonly appear on the thighs, calves and ankles. In fact, it's estimated that at least half of the adult female population is plagued with this common cosmetic problem.

Spider veins can be treated through sclerotherapy, in which veins are injected with a sclerosing solution that causes them to collapse and fade from view. The procedure may also remedy bothersome symptoms associated with spider veins, such as aching, burning, swelling and night cramps.

Although this procedure has been used in Europe for more than 50 years, it has only become popular in the United States during the past decade. Sclerotherapy requires no anesthesia, is relatively painless and, while it's unrealistic to expect every affected vein to disappear completely, veins will definitely appear lighter. Two or more sessions are usually required to achieve optimal results; sessions typically last from 15 to 45 minutes. Your legs may be bruised or slightly discolored for some weeks afterward.