Leg Vein Treatment in NYC

Visible leg veins are a common part of the aging process for many patients. As we age, wear and tear on a vein’s valves can disrupt steady blood flow, allowing blood to flow back into the veins rather than continuing directly to the heart. The appearance of visible leg veins, such as varicose or spider veins, can become more obvious as the extra blood in these veins puts pressure on the veins’ walls, weakening and bulging the vein walls. Characterized by blue or red skin discoloration and aching or heavy legs, visible leg veins are typically caused by sitting or standing for long periods of time. They are more common with advanced age, during pregnancy, and due to hormonal changes, birth control pills, or injury. These leg veins are often unsightly and can be uncomfortable or painful. Still, many excellent treatment options are now available in Dr. Green’s private New York City office to eliminate the appearance of visible legs quickly and painlessly for smooth, blemish, and pain-free legs.

Two of the most common non-invasive leg vein treatments include Sclerotherapy, an injectable treatment, and VBeam, a laser treatment. Sclerotherapy involves injecting Asclera, a sclerosing agent, into the veins. The solution forces the blood vessel to seal up and collapse. Afterward, the body slowly absorbs the remaining vessel, leaving the skin smooth and vein-free. The VBeam laser is a pulsed dye laser that targets red pigmentation in the skin. The VBeam laser erases the discoloration from the veins to leave your skin clear and radiant. Often, a combination of Sclerotherapy and VBeam is recommended to treat both larger and smaller veins in the legs. Whether with non-invasive injections of sclerotherapy or V-Beam laser treatment, Dr. Green will provide you with non-invasive, highly effective leg vein treatments to safely and effectively treat your leg veins.

Dr. Michele Green is a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in non-invasive cosmetic treatments, including sclerotherapy and VBeam laser for leg veins. Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times have consistently voted Dr. Green as one of the best dermatologists in New York City due to her dedication and over 25 years of expertise. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy regarding skin rejuvenation, customizing each patient’s treatment plan to cater best to their specific concerns and unique aesthetic goals. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will determine the best treatment plan to leave you looking and feeling like your best self.

What are spider veins?

Spider veins are a common skin condition that affects up to 60% of adults in the United States. Spider veins, known as telangiectasia or superficial leg veins, appear as red superficial blood vessels that lie close to the skin. Damage to the blood vessel leads to skin discoloration in affected areas and can cause slight discomfort or pain for those affected. Spider veins are most likely to appear on the legs and around the ankles but may also appear on the face. Named after their common spider web-like appearance, spider veins are typically more commonly found in women than men. While spider veins typically do not cause any symptoms, they can create feelings of self-consciousness and frustration for many.

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are swollen or twisted veins that appear under the skin, typically due to damaged or weak valves. They are typically blue, larger in diameter, and often bulge into the skin. Varicose veins usually cause more discomfort due to the pressure on the vein’s wall and can ache or throb and pop out like “ropes” on the skin’s surface. These aches and pains can manifest as heaviness in the legs, muscle cramping, swelling in the leg, and itching. In more severe cases, the pressure on the vein can lead to a condition known as thrombophlebitis, which is blood clots that occur due to enlarged veins. Varicose veins can also lead to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), another condition where a blood clot develops due to swollen veins. Due to the risk of serious conditions associated with varicose veins that are left untreated for a long period, it is important to consult an expert, board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, to alleviate the symptoms of varicose veins and prevent any co-morbidity.

What is the difference between spider veins and varicose veins?

Spider veins are a mild, more common variation of the condition of varicose veins. Found closer to the skin’s surface than varicose veins, spider veins are often red or blue compared to varicose veins’ dark purple or blue. While spider veins take on the appearance of a web, varicose veins are enlarged and often knotted or twisted and can cause discomfort in affected patients, making the legs feel heavy and swollen. Risk factors for developing spider and varicose veins are similar and can include aging, pregnancy, family history, and sitting or standing in one position for an extended amount of time.

What causes vein problems in legs?

Although the exact cause of spider veins and varicose veins are not known, the following factors may contribute to their formation:

• Genetics— A family history of spider and/or varicose veins may make you more likely to develop the condition yourself.
• Obesity— Being overweight leads to increased blood pressure, which in turn puts more pressure on the leg veins, increasing the risk of damage to them.
• Trauma— Patients who have suffered any other form of vein damage or trauma may be more likely to develop spider or varicose veins due to the pre-existing trauma on the veins.
• Fluctuating hormone levels— Shifting hormones can occur in many situations and increase the risk of developing spider or varicose veins. Puberty, pregnancy, or menopause are all periods during which hormones are in flux, and patients experiencing these hormonal shifts are more likely to develop varicose veins.
• Age— The risk of developing varicose or spider veins increases with age. As we move through life, there is natural wear and tear on the leg veins and valves responsible for regulating blood flow. Eventually, valves can wear out, leading to the reverse flow of blood into the leg veins.
• Long periods of sitting or standing— When you sit or stand for long periods, the blood flow in your legs is poor. As such, standing or sitting for an extended amount of time can lead to wear and pressure on the valves in the veins.
• Medical conditions— Conditions that affect blood flow in the legs, such as chronic venous insufficiency, can result in the development of spider veins or varicose veins.

What is chronic venous insufficiency?

Chronic venous insufficiency is a medical condition characterized by a refluxing of the valves at the saphenofemoral junction. Blood in the veins flows in one direction: toward the heart. As veins must work against gravity, they contain valves that open and close to prevent the backflow of blood. With chronic venous insufficiency, veins have a hard time pushing blood toward the heart, resulting in reflux, pooling of blood in the veins, and varicose veins. 25% of the white population have varicose veins, and the incidence increases with age. Common signs of venous insufficiency include:

• Lower leg and ankle edema
• Phlebitis (painful swelling of the legs with inflammation)
• Stasis dermatitis
• Lower leg heaviness
• Ulceration
• Skin color changes and discoloration of the lower legs
• Skin ulcers
• Pain, burning, leg cramps
• Venous disease

Will varicose veins go away on their own?

Unfortunately, varicose veins do not disappear on their own. When spider and varicose veins first appear, they can distress cosmetically and may also be uncomfortable. If left untreated, the pain and discomfort associated with varicose veins can worsen over time as the valves in the veins continue to weaken. The risk of developing more serious health problems such as blood clots, venous ulcers (open sores), DVT, or thrombophlebitis can also increase over time if the condition is not treated. Further, varicose and spider veins will not go away on their own, so it is important for patients experiencing the discomfort of these conditions to seek treatment. Expert, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Green is very experienced in treating these conditions and employs several different treatment methods at her office, including sclerotherapy and laser treatment.

What is the best treatment for leg veins?

Varicose veins can often be painful and unsightly, and many patients seek the best possible treatment to help treat both varicose and spider veins. When it comes to the successful and efficient treatment of leg veins, Dr. Green typically turns first to sclerotherapy. In addition to sclerotherapy, other treatment options are available at Dr. Green’s office, including laser therapy, which can also be combined with sclerotherapy for more effective results. The first step to treatment is a consultation with Dr. Green, who will assess your leg veins and medical history to determine the best treatment for you.

Sclerotherapy to remove leg veins

Sclerotherapy is one of the best non-invasive leg vein treatments that Dr. Green offers in her private NYC dermatology office. Sclerotherapy involves injecting Asclera, a leading sclerosing agent, into affected veins. When your veins are injected with Asclera, the solution irritates the lining of the blood vessel wall, causing the vessel to seal up and become invisible. After the vein collapses, the body slowly absorbs the remaining vessel until the skin becomes smooth and spider vein-free. There are few side effects associated with sclerotherapy leg vein treatment, and many patients turn to sclerotherapy for treatment to avoid the unnecessary downtime and discomfort associated with more invasive procedures like vein surgery. After your initial sclerotherapy treatment, repeat injections will be scheduled one month apart. Depending on the number and depth of your spider or varicose veins, it can take three or more treatments to make these veins disappear. However, significant results are common for small varicose or spider veins after just one or two treatment sessions.

The process of leg vein treatment is quite simple and convenient. First, you will have a consultation with Dr. Green about your leg veins, during which she will complete a physical exam and review your complete medical history – including current medications, allergies, and surgeries – to ensure you are a good candidate for sclerotherapy. Medical photography may be taken at this time to track future progress with treatment. Dr. Green will prescribe a topical numbing cream to be applied to the legs one hour before the appointment. Dr. Green recommends wrapping the legs with saran wrap to allow the anesthetic cream to be fully absorbed by the skin. When you arrive at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office, the area will be cleaned and prepared for treatment. Dr. Green will then inject the Asclera solution into the spider or varicose veins. Multiple injections are performed on all of the various leg veins in a single session to reduce the appearance of the treated veins. After the injections, your legs are cleaned, and compression stockings are worn home afterward.

VBeam laser treatment for spider veins

VBeam is a pulsed dye laser and the gold standard for treating spider veins and telangiectasia, as well as facial capillaries, blood vessels, and surface veins. By targeting the red pigmentation of the spider veins, the VBeam laser works to erase signs of discoloration present. This laser leg vein treatment involves no needle, numbing cream, or discomfort. Additionally, there is no downtime, and patients can resume their daily activities immediately following treatment. VBeam laser treatment is best suited for treating smaller veins on the legs. Typically, multiple treatment sessions spaced one month apart are best to achieve optimal cosmetic results.

What is the downtime associated with leg vein treatment?

Generally, there is little downtime associated with non-invasive leg vein treatments. Sclerotherapy can often leave the treated area bruised for about a week after the injections. Dr. Green generally encourages patients to engage with sclerotherapy treatment during the fall and winter months so that the appearance of bruising will not be an issue. Dr. Green encourages you to wear compression stockings for one week following the procedure to accelerate healing. The main side effect of Sclerotherapy is local bruising and irritation at the injection site. Strenuous exercise and direct exposure to sunlight should be avoided for 48 hours post-treatment, and saunas, steam rooms, and airplane travel should be avoided for two weeks. With the VBeam laser, there is no downtime after treatment. However, patients should avoid sun exposure in the area for a few weeks to avoid discoloration after the procedure.

Does vein treatment hurt?

No, leg vein treatment with the VBeam does not hurt. For Sclerotherapy, Dr. Green will prescribe a topical numbing cream to be applied to the legs one hour before the procedure to minimize any discomfort. While there is no pain associated with VBeam treatment, the numbing cream can be used for sensitive patients as well. No additional pain medication is needed either before or after the treatment.

Can you combine non-invasive leg vein treatments?

Absolutely! Dr. Green often combines sclerotherapy with VBeam laser treatments to address both larger and smaller veins and capillaries. Sclerotherapy will treat the larger visible veins that are too large to treat with the laser. The VBeam® is a pulsed dye non-ablative laser system designed to remove smaller vascular lesions and other skin pigmentations. By combining these two procedures, Dr. Green can treat your varicose and spider veins with the best, painless, non-invasive methods available in NYC.

Who is a good candidate for non-invasive leg vein treatments?

A good candidate for noninvasive leg vein treatments is an individual in good physical health who wants to eliminate spider or varicose veins. Individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding are not candidates as safety has not yet been determined. Sclerotherapy is contraindicated in individuals with a history of blood clots or who are active smokers, as smoking can increase the risk of developing blood clots. If you are concerned about an underlying venous disease, it is best to consult with a vascular surgeon or qualified healthcare professional for assessment. During your consultation with Dr. Green, she will collect a thorough medical and family history and physically evaluate your leg veins to determine if you are a good candidate for sclerotherapy or VBeam treatment.

Alternative Treatment Options for Leg Veins

In addition to sclerotherapy and laser treatments for leg vein reduction, several alternative treatment options can be used, including ambulatory phlebectomy, ligation or vein stripping, radiofrequency ablation, and endovenous laser therapy. Vein surgery may be the better treatment option if your varicose veins are more advanced. In cases like this, Dr. Green will refer you to a trusted, board-certified vascular surgeon for treatment.

Ambulatory phlebectomy

Ambulatory phlebectomy is a surgical procedure developed in dermatology during which surgeons remove superficial veins through small incisions in the skin to address venous insufficiency.  Ambulatory phlebectomy allows the removal of incompetent veins below the saphenofemoral and saphenopopliteal junctions. This surgical procedure is done on an outpatient basis and has a short recovery time. The junctions themselves cannot be removed, and endogenous laser therapy is needed to treat this problem. Ambulatory phlebectomy is typically performed for patients whose varicose veins are palpable, bulging on the surface, or causing complications.

Ligation or vein stripping

Ligation or vein stripping was a previously common invasive procedure in which the vein was removed or ligated. The varicose vein was cut off, the affected vein ligated, and the vein stripped or surgically removed. Ligation and vein stripping were once used to treat varicose veins causing blood flow problems and to prevent venous skin ulcers from reforming. Thanks to safer, non-invasive procedures, more vascular surgeons turn to treatments like radiofrequency ablation for varicose vein treatment.

Radiofrequency ablation

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) often replaces the need to surgically remove a vein when it comes to treating larger varicose veins. This type of vein treatment inserts a small catheter within the vein, which is heated by radiofrequency energy. The heat created from the radiofrequency energy damages and collapses the vein wall, closing the vein and diverting blood to other healthy veins. RFA is similar to laser ablation but safer as it relies on radiofrequency energy to collapse the varicose vein.

Endovenous laser therapy

Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT), also known as endovenous ablation, is a minimally invasive ultrasound-guided technique that uses a thin laser fiber to treat varicose veins. Typically, a vascular surgeon or interventional radiologist will perform this laser treatment. The laser is guided via ultrasound into the veins through a small incision. The laser energy heats the wall of the varicose vein and permanently closes the damaged vein, preventing blood from flowing and pooling in the vein. The blood flow stops through the unhealthy vein and gets re-directed to other healthy veins, which increases your circulation. There is minimal recovery time with this procedure. RFA and ELVT have replaced vein stripping since they are safer and have less downtime for varicose vein treatment. The treated veins take about one year after RFA or EVLT to disappear.

What is the best vein treatment?

The best treatment for leg veins often depends on the type and severity of your leg veins. For mild to moderate varicose and spider veins, Dr. Green often recommends Sclerotherapy and VBeam treatment, as these treatment options are noninvasive, safe, and highly effective. Patients with more severe varicose veins may need more invasive treatments, such as radiofrequency ablation or endovenous laser therapy. While spider and varicose veins may first be a cosmetic concern, they can lead to the development of serious medical conditions, including blood clots, venous ulcers, deep vein thrombosis, or thrombophlebitis. If you are experiencing spider or varicose veins, consult with a board-certified expert dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green. Dr. Green will physically assess your leg veins and determine the proper treatment to leave you with clear, vein-free legs.

What are the best ways to treat these leg veins at home?

Simple self-care tips and lifestyle changes in routine can improve the appearance of leg veins or prevent the appearance of varicose veins or spider veins. These shifts include:

• Regular Exercise has been shown to improve the appearance of leg veins. Exercise increases blood circulation throughout the body, which can improve the appearance of leg veins. Exercise has even been shown to help prevent some varicose veins from forming.
• Avoid sitting at your desk or computer for long periods. Take breaks and walk around to increase your circulation.
• Avoid standing for long periods, as this allows the blood to pool in your legs and increases the pressure on these veins.  It is important to take frequent breaks when standing for long periods.
• Avoid saunas or hot tubs for prolonged periods, as this also worsens the leg veins.
• Avoid wearing high heels when possible. Wearing flat or low-heeled shoes can help engage the calf muscles, improving your leg veins.
• Weight loss improves circulation and leg veins. Eating a well-balanced diet is also important to maintain a healthy weight.
• Compression Stockings supply constant, steady pressure on your legs. It is important to wear compression stockings if you already have leg veins and to prevent you from creating even more deep veins. Wearing compression stockings is important in preventing blood clots.

If you work in a position that requires you to sit or stand for extended periods, it is important to wear compression stockings. These stockings improve venous blood flow and decrease swelling of your leg veins. Compression stockings come in different sizes and pressures. Dr. Green generally recommends wearing a support hose with mild compression. You do not have to wear compression stockings during exercise. Compression stockings are not a cure for venous insufficiency, but they can help improve the swelling and pressure on the legs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) about leg vein treatment

Where are the veins in your legs?

There are two types of vein systems located in your legs: superficial and deep veins. Superficial veins are closer to the skin’s surface, while deep veins are located closer to muscles and connective tissues. Veins can be found all along the legs, some running from the back of the floor to the back of the knee, others running along the sides of the lower leg or through the upper thigh. Superficial and deep veins typically meet at junctions behind the knee and the groin.

What causes vein problems in the legs?

Varicose veins are caused by damage to the valves in the veins or to the veins’ walls. The circulatory system in the body is bi-directional: arteries carry blood away from your heart to the rest of the body while veins carry blood back to your heart. In the legs, veins must work against gravity to pump blood back to the heart. As such, if the valves that keep blood from flowing backward are damaged, blood can pool in the veins, leading to the appearance of spider or varicose veins.

Why do leg veins pop out?

Spider and varicose veins occur when blood pools in veins near the skin’s surface. Our veins have tiny one-way valves, allowing the blood to flow back to the heart in only one direction. When these one-way valves are weakened or defective, blood flows backward and pools in the legs. As we age, the valves in our veins also weaken and push some blood flow backward away from the heart, causing blood to accumulate in the veins. This extra blood in the leg veins puts pressure on the walls of the vein, causing leg veins to look as though they’re bulging or “popping out.” Blood accumulation in the veins can also lead to other issues, such as blood clots.

What are the benefits of leg vein treatment?

Spider and varicose veins appear discolored, twisted, or corded, making patients self-conscious. However, there can also be a risk of developing complications due to varicose veins. For patients dissatisfied with the appearance of leg veins, there are many treatment options available at Dr. Green’s office to eliminate signs of spider veins and varicose veins, which can improve self-confidence. For some, varicose veins are painful, and treatment can alleviate the discomfort of the condition. Varicose veins can also lead to further complications, and leaving them untreated can create bigger problems down the line. The presence of varicose veins is a risk factor for developing superficial thrombophlebitis, deep vein thrombosis, and even a pulmonary embolism. As such, leg vein treatment can be beneficial not only on a cosmetic level but also on a medical level.

Who treats varicose veins?

When seeking treatment for varicose veins, it is important to find an experienced healthcare provider, such as Dr. Green. Varicose vein treatments, such as sclerotherapy and laser treatment, require precision and a practiced hand to target the damaged blood vessel accurately. Dr. Green has over two and half decades of experience in expertly treating patients for spider and varicose veins at her private Upper East Side dermatology office.

When to worry about leg veins

Varicose veins on their own can be very uncomfortable and painful, but the backward flow of blood in the veins can also lead to more serious conditions. The appearance of varicose veins can lead to the formation of ulcers on the surface of the skin near the varicose vein. These ulcers can be very painful, and patients should see their healthcare provider immediately if they notice the development of ulcers on the skin. Further, twisted veins that are characteristic of varicose veins can lead to swelling in the leg as blood circulation worsens. This can lead to blood clots, which also harm your health, and in more severe cases, deep vein thrombosis. It is essential to see a healthcare professional, such as Dr. Green, about your varicose veins if you experience any pain or discomfort before the condition advances. Varicose veins can be easily eliminated through treatments such as sclerotherapy or VBeam laser treatment. These non-invasive treatments still work effectively to eliminate problematic varicose veins without the need for surgery or downtime.

When do veins burst in legs?

It is possible for veins to burst in the legs, and it is often due to trauma, such as a scrape, to a varicose vein that results in rupturing of the vein wall. When a vein bursts or ruptures, there may be visible bleeding or bruising underneath the skin. Individuals may also feel a sharp pain followed by a dull ache in the injured area. If the burst vein is paired with mild to moderate bleeding, keeping the leg elevated above the heart can help to slow the bleeding. Gentle pressure can also be applied over the vein, and a bandage can be used once the bleeding is under control. If the bleeding is severe, it is essential to wrap the leg and visit the nearest emergency room for treatment. To avoid the risk of burst or ruptured varicose veins, it is best to quickly consult with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green, as treatments such as Sclerotherapy can help to eliminate varicose veins from the legs.

Can leg vein valves be repaired?

Spider veins and varicose veins are caused by weakened or damaged valves in the veins. These valves, when working correctly, stop the backward flow of blood. However, when damaged, blood can flow backward and pool in the vein, leading to spider or varicose veins. Surgical methods such as valvuloplasty can be used to repair the valves in the veins; however, this is an invasive procedure and is associated with side effects and recovery time. There are many treatment methods for varicose veins that do not repair the valves but are still extremely effective at eliminating the symptoms of varicose veins without the need for surgery. As such, Dr. Green does not typically recommend valve repair surgery when other non-invasive options, such as Sclerotherapy, exist.

Do leg vein supplements work?

Leg vein supplements can help to relieve symptoms of leg vein pain, but they are not a treatment for spider or varicose veins. Vitamins C, D, E, and K can help to improve vein health by promoting circulation and helping veins relax and contract. Supplements such as Venixxa can help to relieve leg pain, heaviness, and discomfort associated with varicose and spider veins. However, these supplements are not FDA-approved, and it is important to conduct thorough research on supplements for leg veins before purchasing. If you are unsure if a supplement or vitamin is best for you, consult with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green today.

What medicine can cure varicose veins?

Oral medications are not used to treat varicose veins. Often, dermatologists and vascular surgeons will recommend lifestyle changes and non-invasive treatments over medications due to their effectiveness in reducing and eliminating varicose veins. Sclerotherapy treatment uses Asclera, a sclerosing agent, to close affected vein walls, allowing for blood to be redirected through healthier veins. The VBeam laser uses a pulsed dye laser to destroy damaged blood vessels while leaving the surrounding skin and tissue intact. Both treatments require little to no downtime and can help eliminate varicose veins in just a short series of treatments.

How much do leg vein treatment cost?

Leg vein treatment costs vary depending on which method is needed, the severity and size of the spider or varicose veins, the geographic location of the provider, and the provider’s experience. Spider veins are a less severe form of varicose veins and may require less treatments than varicose veins or more severe cases. Additionally, treatment performed by a board-certified dermatologist may be more expensive than a general practitioner; however, it is always important to have your treatments done by an expert to ensure that treatment is both safe and effective. Non-invasive treatments like Sclerotherapy and VBeam can typically cost less than surgical procedures. When you work with Dr. Green, she can successfully develop a treatment plan to reduce the appearance of unsightly leg veins. At this time, the cost of treatment will be determined.

Does Medicare cover varicose vein treatment?

When determining whether any insurance company, including Medicare, covers medical treatment, it is always best to contact the company directly. Most insurance companies consider varicose vein treatment a cosmetic procedure and, as such, will not cover it.

Is leg vein ablation safe?

Yes, leg vein ablation is safe in the hands of a trusted board-certified vascular surgeon or dermatologist. Nowadays, surgeons use endovenous laser therapy or radiofrequency ablation to treat leg veins, as these treatments are minimally invasive and require less downtime. A catheter or probe is inserted into the vein via a small incision, and laser or radiofrequency energy is delivered to heat and seal off the vein. A board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green will use Sclerotherapy, a chemical ablation procedure that involves injecting affected veins with Asclera to close off damaged veins. Leg vein ablation is an excellent treatment option for patients looking to treat their varicose or spider veins. The first step to leg vein ablation is to book a consultation appointment with Dr. Green. Dr. Green will begin by assessing the treatment area to decide about the treatment or series of treatments that best address your particular condition.

What does leg vein pain feel like?

Leg vein pain can feel different to each individual. Common symptoms of leg vein pain include:

• Swelling
• Itching
• Aching
• Cramping
• Heaviness

It is essential to seek medical help if you experience any throbbing pain, warm or darkened skin around the painful area, or sudden swelling in the legs, arm, or neck. These symptoms can be a sign of blood clot formation, as deep vein thrombosis (a blood clot in a vein deep within a muscle) can increase the risk of serious health conditions.

Which spider/varicose/leg vein treatment is best?

There are many effective treatments for getting rid of spider and varicose veins on the legs, and many are non-ablative, meaning that no surgery or incisions are required. Typically, Dr. Green recommends a combination approach of sclerotherapy injectable treatment and V-Beam laser therapy to collapse the lining of blood vessels and reduce the discoloration on the skin. These treatments require no incisions or anesthesia, and patients can typically resume their normal activities immediately following treatment. For bigger veins, Dr. Green may recommend endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) or radiofrequency ablation (RFA), which requires a small cut for the laser energy or radiofrequency heating device to seal the vein. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, EVLT and RFA are often used over surgical removal of veins due to less downtime and risks associated with the procedures. When you have your initial consultation with Dr. Green, she will examine the affected area and decide about the treatment or series of treatments that will work best to reduce the appearance of big veins in your legs.

How many sessions of leg vein treatments does it take to remove the leg veins?

When treated with sclerotherapy, spider veins typically disappear in 3-6 weeks, and varicose veins disappear in 3-4 months as the body absorbs the blood vessel that has been destroyed. On average, three sclerotherapy sessions may be necessary to achieve smooth skin in the treatment area; once completed, the procedure eliminates the weakened blood vessels permanently. After VBeam laser treatment, small spider veins may disappear immediately, while larger spider veins and varicose veins may darken for 1-3 months before disappearing. Three or more VBeam treatments spaced one month apart may also be needed for the full clearing of leg veins. While these treatments permanently destroy the target blood vessel, they do not stop spider or varicose veins from forming again. However, patients can return to Dr. Green’s office for additional treatment sessions as needed.

How to cure varicose veins in legs

Sclerotherapy can permanently remove unwanted varicose and spider veins. However, it will not prevent the formation of new ones. Some leg vein treatments are a permanent solution, especially if they are caused by pregnancy, trauma, or other environmental factors. If a patient’s spider veins are genetic or recurring, repeat maintenance injections of sclerotherapy or V-Beam laser treatments may be needed yearly or every few years.

Should you elevate your legs with varicose veins?

Yes, elevation is great for relieving symptoms of varicose veins. As veins pump blood toward the heart, they are constantly working against gravity. Elevating the legs above the heart can increase blood circulation to the heart and improve pain and swelling.

Does leg massage help varicose veins?

No, leg massages do not help varicose veins and can worsen symptoms in some cases. Massages can help boost blood flow, which can sometimes reduce pain and swelling in the legs. However, too much pressure during a leg massage can damage and burst weakened veins, resulting in internal or external bleeding. Massaging may also dislodge a blood clot and release it into the bloodstream, increasing the risk of serious health conditions.

How do I get started with my leg vein treatment?

Visible spider and varicose veins can develop over time due to wear and tear on vein valves. For many, unsightly leg veins can induce feelings of self-consciousness or low self-esteem. Luckily, various non-invasive treatment options for reducing the appearance of leg veins, including sclerotherapy and VBeam laser, are available at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood. These treatments are safe and effective, requiring little to no downtime to eliminate your spider and varicose veins. After a short series of pain-free treatments, patients can look forward to clear, beautiful skin again. If you are frustrated by the appearance of varicose veins or spider veins on the legs or experiencing discomfort due to the condition, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Michele Green is here to help.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned expert in the field of cosmetic dermatology with over two and a half decades of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the best cosmetic treatment options available, including for leg veins. Dr. Green is consistently voted one of the best cosmetic dermatologists in New York by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, The New York Times, and Super Doctors for her dedication to her patients and expertise. An expert in sclerotherapy and laser treatment, Dr. Green will help you achieve beautiful, clear legs with the best leg vein treatment in New York. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Green today, contact us online or call 212-535-3088 to learn more about which leg vein treatment will be best for you.