Will Spider Veins Get Worse if Left Untreated?

Spider veins are damaged or weakened veins due to improper blood flow, commonly found on the legs or face. Blood begins to "pool" once a vein's valve has a problem, which over time makes it more noticeable on the surface of the skin. If left untreated, spider veins can get worse over time and lead to more substantial visibility. In Provo, UT, people can turn to laser vein removal to reduce spider veins' appearance. Board-certified physician Dr. Stuart B. Porter and the team of skin experts at Xage Medical Spa understand how this cosmetic issue can make patients feel self-conscious about their spider veins being the first thing people notice. Read on to learn more about achieving your aesthetic goals with laser vein treatments at Xage Medical Spa, or give us a call to schedule a consultation today.

What causes spider veins?

Spider veins are small, damaged veins that can appear on the surface of the skin. Most adults have visible spider veins on their legs, face, and hands. Generally, spindly and small-like in appearance resembling a spider web or tree branch, spider veins pose no medical issue, unlike varicose veins, if left untreated. However, some people may wish to treat them for cosmetic reasons. They can be caused by:

• Trauma or injury to the area
• Obesity or weight gain
• Fluctuating hormones
• Sun damage
• Heredity
• Standing or sitting for extended periods
• Age

Is there a spider vein treatment?

Broken blood vessels can happen to anyone. Spider veins will get worse if left untreated and become more visible through the skin over time. It is imperative to seek removal at the first signs. At a private consultation, Dr. Porter will assess the problem areas and develop a personalized plan to achieve your cosmetic goals with laser vein treatments. At Xage Medical Spa, we utilize Alma™ Harmony XL laser technology for a nonsurgical, virtually painless procedure. The laser handpiece will pass over the target area of veins with a series of pulses without affecting the surrounding skin. The laser energy is absorbed by the spider vein, making the damaged vessel walls collapse. Within 3 – 4 weeks, the treated veins are reabsorbed by the body and disappear.

How to keep spider veins from getting worse

Spider veins usually don't lead to more serious issues or require treatment. But, if you have spider veins and feel self-conscious about them, outside of laser vein removal treatments, Provo, UT patients can also incorporate the following lifestyle changes:

• Wear compression socks
• Lose weight
• Exercise
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure
• When sitting, keep legs uncrossed or use a footstool to keep feet elevated
• Avoid sitting or standing for long periods
• Avoid tight clothing or underwear

Laser spider vein removal treatment in Provo, UT

Light therapy with laser technology offers a spider vein removal treatment that requires no downtime. Depending on each case's severity, Dr. Porter may recommend more than one session to provide successful results, leaving patients with radiant, flawless skin. To learn more or schedule a spider vein treatment appointment, contact our experienced team at Xage Medical Spa in Provo, UT, and schedule a private consultation with board-certified physician Dr. Stuart B. Porter today.