Varicose veins are veins that no longer perform properly. Blood does not circulate efficiently leading to bulging veins . Compared to varicose veins, spider veins are smaller, non-bulging veins on the surface of your skin similar to the photo noted here.
At VRC, we currently only treat spider veins. We apologize we are unable to treat varicose veins at this time.
Sclerotherapy is a simple, effective method to treat spider veins.
Sclerotherapy involves using a tiny needle to inject a solution directly into the vein. The sclerotherapy solution causes the vein to scar, forcing blood to reroute through healthier veins. The collapsed vein is reabsorbed into local tissue and eventually fades.
Typically 1-3 sessions are required. The procedure itself only takes about 30 minutes each visit. Most people return to their normal routines immediately after treatment and the spider veins resolve in about 2-4 weeks.
Compression therapy plays an important role in preventing recurrence of spider and varicose veins after treating. Dr. Radke can help select the right option for you.
Patients describe minimal pain, often described as being comparable to a mosquito bite.
Temporary side effects include:
These side effects usually go away within a few days.
Spider vein treatment is not covered by OHIP. A single treatment of spider veins (up to 25 injections) costs $150, and a double treatment (up to 50 injections) costs $250.
This treatment cannot be used on pregnant or breastfeeding mothers. Avoid direct sun exposure, strenuous exercise, alcohol and anti-inflammatories post treatment. You will receive further detailed instructions during your treatment at VRC.