Thread Veins
Thread veins are usually harmless, though, like varicose veins, they can sometimes ache and can cause burning or pain, especially if you are on your feet for a long time.
What causes thread veins?
Thread veins — also called spider veins or telangiectasia — are fine red, blue or purple veins just beneath the skin, often in a branching or web-like pattern on the thighs, calves and ankles. They can be caused by hormonal changes (including pregnancy), genetics, sun damage, local injury, and long periods of standing. They can also be a sign of a larger leaking vein underneath that is not visible from the surface.
Why we scan before treating
This is the most important difference between a vascular surgeon's clinic and a cosmetic one. If thread veins are fed by an underlying leak, injecting them alone gives a disappointing, short-lived result — they tend to come back early. A duplex ultrasound scan shows whether hidden venous reflux is present. If so, treating it first, for example with EVLA or foam sclerotherapy, gives a much better, longer-lasting result.
Microsclerotherapy
Microsclerotherapy is the standard treatment for thread veins on the legs. A very fine needle is used to inject a small amount of sclerosant solution into each vein. The solution irritates the vein lining, causing it to collapse and be gradually absorbed over the following weeks.
Each session takes around 30 minutes and needs no anaesthetic.
Most people feel only a slight sting with each injection.
You walk out straight afterwards and can return to normal activities the same day.
Most people need more than one session for the best result, spaced several weeks apart.
Results develop gradually: treated veins fade over several weeks to a few months.
A compression stocking is usually worn for a short period afterwards to improve the result.
Side effects
Bruising and small red marks at the injection sites, settling within days to weeks.
Some patients develop brownish staining along a treated vein, which usually fades over 6 to 12 months.
Matting — a blush of very fine new vessels in about 1 in 5 patients after sclerotherapy. It is harmless, usually fades within a year and can be treated later if it does not.
Rarely, a small skin ulcer where solution leaks outside the vein; almost always small and self-healing.
Does insurance cover thread veins?
Thread vein treatment is usually considered cosmetic and is not normally covered by private medical insurance.
Book an assessment
We see patients at Springfield Hospital and Phoenix Hospital in Chelmsford, St Edmunds Hospital in Bury St Edmunds, and Weymouth Street Hospital in central London.
No referral is needed.
Call 01245 241 340 or email info@avclinic.co.uk.