How are facial spider veins treated?

The surgical method of treating facial spider veins by direct cautery and transaction, used in some developing countries, can cause scars. Electrosurgery, which uses an electric current, provided by a needle, is painful and therefore not suitable for large facial vein clusters. Sclerotherapy for spider veins removal, which entails the injection of a potent solution by means of a tiny needle gives good result, but the use of highly concentrated sclerosants for reticular veins around the eye carries a risk of causing retinal changes, or even blindness, especially when the sclerosant backflows into the ophthalmic artery.

According to clinical data compiled during the last decade, laser vein treatment and light-based treatments, commonly used in the most advanced vein treatment centers in United States offer several advantages over other options for facial spider vein treatment; or at least, are as good as the microwave-based Veinwave system. The Veinwave system, recently developed in the United Kingdom, is a safe, reliable, non-invasive treatment utilizing the principle of Unipolar Thermo-Coagulation (UTC).

It should be pointed out that IPL or laser vein treatment of facial reticular and spider veins require several sessions and can take up to 3 months before the full effect of the treatment is realized. Larger vessels may require more repeat treatment sessions; however, once complete clearance is achieved, the veins remain closed. The side effects of laser therapy can include pain (similar to a rubber band snap) and temporary purpura.