Rochester Cosmetic Dermatology

Dr. Elizabeth A Arthur, MD, FAAD,  is board certified in Dermatology by the American Board of Dermatology. Here the Doctor has answered some of the common questions Bizymoms visitors have about Spider veins.


Q. What causes spider veins on face and legs?

A. Spider angioma is an abnormal collection of blood vessels near the surface of the skin. The appearance is often similar to that of a small spider web. A spider angioma lesion typically has a red dot in the center with reddish extensions radiating out for some distance around it (a few millimeters to a centimeter or more). Spider angiomas can occur anywhere but are most common on the face and trunk. They are very common and are especially prevalent during pregnancy and in patients with liver disease.

Q. How does laser treatment help treat facial and spider veins?

A. For bothersome spider angiomas, the lesion can be eliminated with electrocautery or laser treatment. During the electrocauterization treatment, laser technology is used to destroy the tissue surrounding the abnormal collection of blood vessels in an effort to stop the bleeding.
We also offer Sclerotherapy which is the standard treatment for varicose and spider veins. A special sclerosing solution is injected into the diseased vein, which then collapses and is gradually absorbed by the body. By the end of the treatment program, the veins are less visible on the skin surface.

Q. How many laser treatments are required to effectively treat facial and spider veins?

A. Typically, most patients needs less than three treatments to effectively treat this problem.    
Every patient is unique however.

Q. Are there any side effects of using laser treatment for facial and spider veins?

A. There is some temporary redness and sting of the skin.  Both of these are easily relieved with Avene’s eau thermale spring water spray.

Q. Are the effects permanent?

A. If a patient continues to take good care of their skin, yes.