These are bulging veins that lie just beneath the skin (superficial veins). They occur when the walls of a vein are weak or damaged or if the valves in the vein that normally stop the blood from flowing backwards are impaired, resulting in pooling of the blood and stretched veins. Besides being unattractive, varicose veins can be painful and cause inflammation or ulceration.

The following types of procedures are available if varicose veins or spider veins require treatment:

Radiofrequency ablation – RFA is when a very fine probe is inserted into the vein under local anaesthetic with ultrasound guidance. The probe produces heat which is applied to the inside of the vein, and this seals the vein from the inside. You will be given light sedation for this procedure. Once the vein has been sealed, it is broken down by your body’s own natural inflammatory response, and with time the vein is reabsorbed back into the leg.  You will need to wear compression stockings following this treatment. 

Sclerotherapy – for spider veins:   a tiny needle is used to inject a chemical solution into the vein that causes the vein to collapse. This is performed under ultrasound guidance and is often recommended in combination with radiofrequency ablation to treat the smaller branches. You will need to wear compression stockings over the treated area for five days following the treatment.

Aesthetic Laser treatment for spider veins:  Specialist Vein Health offers non invasive and quick treatments (that do not require compression stockings) for leg and facial spider veins and other superficial vascular concerns.  This is done with our Excel V laser from Cutera - by our trained registered nurses.  Using the most advanced aesthetic technology - Excel V combines two lasers that target, reduce, improve and soften spider veins and much more.