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Leg Veins &
Varicose Veins
Superficial leg veins, also known as spider veins, are wispy, red, superficial blood vessels found close to the skin.
leg veins & Varicose Veins
We provide comprehensive treatment at the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of New York. Our physicians specialize in the treatment of superficial leg veins, also known as spider veins, which are fine, red, superficial blood vessels that are close to the skin. Spider veins differ from true varicose veins, which are usually larger in diameter, blue in color, and tend to bulge out in the skin. Additionally, we offer the latest comprehensive treatment of varicose veins.
Popular treatment options for spider and varicose veins on the legs include sclerotherapy, which uses injections of a sclerosing agent to close visible veins. Endovenous laser ablation using the CoolTouch CTEV device involves the insertion of laser heating directly into the vein, collapsing it without damaging surrounding skin, tissue, or vessels.
What treatments are available?
Our Center offers cutting-edge technologies for the treatment of leg veins and venous disease. The lasers, devices, and treatments for leg veins are as follows:
- Sclerotherapy
- Long-pulsed nd:YAG Laser
- Vbeam Prima®
- V Beam Perfecta™ Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL)
- CoolTouch CTEV™
- Excel V™ KT
To learn more about these treatment options, check out our online webinar
What is venous insufficiency?
Veins are blood vessels in the body that return blood from the limbs and organs back to the heart; leg veins contain valves that prevent the backflow of blood. Venous insufficiency occurs when forward flow through the veins is blocked (such as in a blood clot), or if there is backward leakage of blood flow through damaged valves. Venous insufficiency can be caused by a number of disorders, and present as spider veins, varicose veins, and reticular veins.
What are spider veins?
Spider veins, also called telangiectasia, are small, fine veins that exist close to the surface of the skin. These thin veins are connected to the larger venous system but are not needed for normal circulation. Spider veins are often caused by pregnancy, hormonal changes, weight gain, professions or activities that require prolonged sitting or standing, certain medications, or genetics (family history).
What are reticular veins?
Reticular veins are usually blue or purple in color, and lie flat on the skin. They commonly form on the thighs, legs, ankles, and face, causing some patients to be wary of revealing skin where these veins are visible. Additionally, they may cause pain and discomfort in the surrounding area. Reticular veins are considered ‘feeder veins’ because they supply excess blood to spider veins, filling their dilated venules. Thus, treating reticular veins may subsequently eliminate spider veins in a patient.
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are gnarled, enlarged veins, which may be dark purple or blue in color, and have a twisting or bulging cord-like appearance. While they are not usually painful, varicose veins may sometimes cause achy or heavy feeling in the legs, a burning or pain sensation after extended sitting or standing, swelling, or an itching feeling.
Real Patients Before and After photos
Sclerotherapy to treat leg veins
Sclerotherapy to treat leg veins
Sclerotherapy to treat leg veins
Leg Veins In The News
Roy G. Geronemus, M.D., featured in New York Social Diary
Cindy Bae, M.D., visits Kathie Lee and Hoda to discuss the difference between varicose veins and spider veins.
World-renowned Leg Vein Specialist and Cosmetic Dermatologist Dr. Robert A. Weiss is Joining The Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York
Leg Veins & varicose veins
Questions and Answers
Q: What Are The Symptoms of Venous Insufficiency?
- Edema (swelling)
- Skin color changes
- Prominent varicose veins or ropy veins
- Skin ulcers
- Painful, burning, or throbbing sensations in the legs and feet
- Restless legs
- Cramps
- Leg weakness and fatigue
Q: What Are The Risk Factors For Venous Insufficiency?
- Old age
- Previous deep vein thrombosis (blood clot)
- Family history
- Obesity
- Immobility
- Muscle weakness
- Pregnancy
- Trauma
- Cancer
Q: What Are Alternative Treatment Options?
A: A conservative option to treat venous insufficiency is to wear prescription compression stockings. These special stockings put pressure on the ankle and lower leg and improve venous blood flow and decrease swelling. A board-certified dermatologist will determine the type of compression stocking that is most appropriate. Additional measures may be recommended: exercise is encouraged to improve circulation, weight loss is beneficial in overweight patients, and blood thinners and anticoagulants can alleviate venous insufficiency issues caused by blood clots. However, compression stockings are limited in that they do not eliminate venous insufficiency, but are used as an adjunct to treatment.
Q: How Can Venous Insufficiency Be Prevented?
- Maintain a healthy body weight and exercise regularly
- Do not smoke, as it is harmful to the circulation
- Avoid standing or sitting in one place or position for extended periods of time
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317 East 34th Street New York, NY 10016
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325 Meeting House Lane, Bldg. 1, Ste. C Southampton, NY 11968
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