Spider veins are a smaller version of varicose veins, a common condition where veins can be prominently seen on the surface of the skin. Spider veins are so named due to their spider web like appearance. Spider veins can come from a variety of sources including blood pooling, sun exposure, hormone changes and genetics. When spider veins occur on the face there are several treatment options available.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is one of the first options that can be used on facial spider veins. During sclerotherapy a solution of sodium tetradecyl sulfate or polidocanol is injected into the affected veins. This solution causes the vein walls to expand and seal completely shut.
This prevents future blood from from entering the veins. Without blood flow the vein is converted into scar tissue, which fades away in a few weeks, according to the National Women’s Health Information Center.
Laser Surgery
Laser surgery is a more recent treatment option for spider veins on the face. Used for smaller spider veins, laser treatment uses a specially calibrated laser (endovenous laser) to focus energy onto the spider vein.
As this energy penetrates the skin in strong bursts, the vein is intentionally damaged, sealing it off from surrounding blood vessels. This causes the vein to turn to scar tissue and slowly disappear into the skin.
Ligation and Stripping
Litigation and stripping is one of several surgical options for spider veins. Small incisions are made in the skin, allowing the surgeon to tie off veins and remove them completely from the skin. The procedure typically requires anesthesia, and is done as an outpatient surgery in a hospital or surgical center. Scarring can occur, which may be of concern depending on how large an area of skin is affected by spider veins on the face.
Phlebectomy Surgery
Phlebectomy surgery involves small cuts in the facial skin using specially designed lighting equipment to locate the veins. Surgical hooks are then affixed to the veins and used to pull them out of the skin. Like ligation and stripping, there is some risk for scar tissue formation, but is generally minimal, according to the Mayo Clinic.
About this Author
Chris Sherwood is a professional freelance journalist who specializes in health and fitness, diseases, medical and health research, and drug and alcohol effects research. Sherwood is currently finishing his degree in health care policy and administration with an emphasis on hospital administration.
