What is the Least Expensive Way to Get Rid of Spider Veins?

Two proven medical methods can eliminate unsightly spider veins. Talk to a vein specialist about the best and most affordable options for you.

Although spider veins are considered a primarily cosmetic issue, those thin lines of purple and blue can be uncomfortable physically and emotionally. Similar to varicose veins, spider veins develop when weakened valves in the veins allow blood to pool. The blood then pushes the veins to the surface of the skin. Aside from their appearance, spider veins are mostly asymptomatic but can sometimes cause itching and throbbing in the legs. Spider veins aren't bulging and twisted and are typically smaller in size, unlike varicose veins.

Luckily, there are treatments to eliminate spider veins. Because spider vein therapy classifies as cosmetic, insurance will not pay for the procedures. However, you can work with your vein care facility on affordably removing unsightly spider veins.

Two Methods to Eliminate Spider Veins

Like varicose veins, spider veins occur from several risk factors. Some people are born with a genetic predisposition to develop varicose and spider veins. Those who carry excess weight put extra pressure on their veins, which can cause spider veins to appear. Women are more prone to developing spider veins because of the hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause.

As a result, exercising, losing weight, and having a healthy diet may help reduce the symptoms and appearance of spider veins and prevent new ones from forming. Lifestyle changes alone, however, won’t cure spider or varicose veins. Minimally invasive office procedures performed by a vein specialist are the only way to eliminate annoying spider veins.

A vein specialist can discuss these two tried-and-true spider vein treatments in more detail and break down the cost, but here's a general overview:

Sclerotherapy. Sclerotherapy is the most widely used treatment for spider veins. It involves a safe, saline-based solution injected into the vein that sets off a chain reaction, irritating the vein walls, and collapsing them. Over time, the affected spider veins vanish. Because the needle is so small, the procedure is virtually painless and requires no anesthesia or downtime.

After treatment, you may see some temporary bruises, and the doctor may ask you to wear compression stockings to promote healing. The procedure takes about an hour, and you can resume normal activities almost immediately. Still, you may need more than one session to eliminate all spider veins.

Laser Therapy. A laser is pulsed into the spider veins during this procedure, generating heat, causing the blood vessel to dissolve and disappear. Laser therapy may cause a slight burning sensation as it is being applied. Potential after-effects include some pain and skin discolorations.

The cost of either treatment depends on your geographic location, the exact procedure, and the number of treated veins. Sclerotherapy and laser therapy may require multiple treatments to eliminate the damaged veins completely. Still, generally, you may need fewer sessions with sclerotherapy.

Spider veins may not be a serious medical condition, but their unsightly appearance may cause self-consciousness and a reluctance to bare one’s skin. There is no magical way to get rid of spider veins, but these two methods reviewed above can help you effectively achieve healthier veins and an improved appearance.

Time to Treat Your Spider Veins?

In New Mexico, Center for Vein Restoration operates four modern, well-equipped, and comfortable offices to treat varicose and spider veins that are led by two experienced physicians. Michael Harding, MD, is board0certified in vascular medicine, cardiology, and internal medicine. Chandran Vedamanikam, MD, is a board-certified phlebologist in venous and lymphatic medicine and family practice. Contact their offices today for a consultation.

801 Encino Place NE #C-12,

Albuquerque, NM 87102

500 E Walnut Street

Deming, NM 88030

2801 E. Missouri Avenue

Suite 27

Las Cruces, NM 88011

2220 Grande Boulevard SE

Suite B

Rio Rancho, NM 87124