One of the most common questions we hear at the Laser Vascular Center is: “After I get treated for my spider veins, how often will I need to come back, and will the veins inevitably return?” This question is frequently asked by patients undergoing sclerotherapy for spider vein removal. The recurrence of spider veins largely depends on individual genetics and the nature of one’s vein disease. Here’s a deeper look into the factors influencing recurrence and why timely treatment at our Vein Clinic is crucial.

The Role of Venous Insufficiency

For some patients, severe venous insufficiency is the primary cause of varicose veins. Smaller spider veins can feed off larger varicose veins. In such cases, spider veins are a result of venous insufficiency and increased venous pressure. If a larger vein is malfunctioning, we address it by closing the vein, a procedure known as vein ablation. This can be performed using techniques such as radiofrequency ablation or venous closure. Once the problematic vein is closed, venous pressure decreases, reducing the size of abnormally enlarged varicose veins and the spider veins fed by them. These spider veins then become easier to treat with sclerotherapy, typically disappearing significantly. However, they may not vanish completely, but the reduction in venous pressure results in a marked improvement. If spider veins reappear, they usually do so in a much less severe form and typically take about a year to resurface. Therefore, addressing venous insufficiency first is vital for achieving long-lasting results and minimizing recurrence.

Treating Spider Veins Solely with Sclerotherapy

For patients without venous insufficiency or painful spider veins, the veins are usually more superficial and don’t require vein ablation before treatment. These surface veins, providing venous drainage to the skin, are often painless and develop with age, exacerbated by hormonal changes like menstrual cycles or childbirth. Often, patients report that many family members have similar vein appearances, indicating a genetic predisposition. In these cases, spider veins respond well to sclerotherapy but may redevelop over the following months to several years. Typically, they don’t return to the exact same spot and are less noticeable when they do. Patients usually need follow-up treatments every few years.

Can Spider Vein Recurrence Be Prevented?

How can patients prevent the recurrence of spider veins? Maintaining a healthy weight and wearing compression stockings can help. Ultimately, if a patient has a strong genetic tendency to develop spider veins, they may continue to recur. Recurrence doesn’t imply any fault; a quick sclerotherapy session can keep them at bay for several more years.

Ultimately, if spider veins occur without venous insufficiency, sclerotherapy is a cosmetic procedure and entirely optional. There’s nothing inherently wrong with those veins other than their appearance. If the appearance of your veins bothers you, even a single sclerotherapy session can make a significant difference and be highly satisfying for both the patient and the vascular surgeon.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

At Laser Vascular Center, our experienced vein doctors can determine if you’re a good candidate for sclerotherapy and other vein treatments. Based on our extensive experience, we can provide a precise prediction of whether your spider veins are likely to return. Take the first step towards healthier, more attractive legs by calling us at (480) 788-5621 to schedule your consultation. Don’t let spider veins hold you back—our vein specialists are here to help you achieve the best possible results.

We are offering FREE vein screenings for a limited time

Please fill out the form below and a member of our team will promptly contact you!