Spider veins are small, visible blood vessels that often appear on the legs or face. While usually harmless, they can make you feel self-conscious, especially during warm months when shorts, dresses, or swimsuits are common. For some, spider veins also cause mild swelling or discomfort, leaving the legs feeling heavy or tired.
Varicose veins, on the other hand, are larger, bulging veins that develop when valves inside the veins weaken, allowing blood to pool. They often appear dark purple or blue and may twist or protrude beneath the skin’s surface.
At Lehigh Valley Weight Loss, Wellness, and Aesthetics, patients have access to advanced, noninvasive spider vein treatments that safely reduce or erase unwanted veins. Under the supervision of John Scaffidi, MD, FABOM, FACOG, a board-certified gynecologist and medical bariatrician with decades of experience, the team offers safe, effective solutions tailored to each patient’s needs. With physician oversight and cutting-edge technology, you can restore confidence and improve the appearance of your skin.
What are Spider Veins?
Spider veins, also known as telangiectasia, are dilated capillaries that appear close to the skin’s surface. They often look like thin red or purple lines that resemble branches, webs, or threads.
Common causes include:
- Genetics
- Hormonal changes
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Trauma to the skin
Spider veins can occur anywhere on the body, but they are most common on the face and legs. Although they are generally not harmful, many people seek treatment to improve appearance or reduce mild discomfort.
What Treatments are Available for Spider Veins?
Laser Therapy
Laser vein therapy directs focused heat energy into visible spider veins without harming the surrounding skin. The laser causes the targeted blood vessels to collapse and fade naturally over time. Most patients see noticeable improvement in just one or two treatments, with minimal downtime required.
What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that form when the tiny valves inside the veins weaken, allowing blood to pool instead of flowing efficiently back to the heart. They often appear dark blue or purple and may bulge beneath the skin’s surface—most often on the legs.
Common causes include:
- Genetics
- Hormonal changes
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Prolonged standing or sitting
- Aging
In addition to their visible appearance, varicose veins can cause aching, swelling, or a heavy sensation in the legs. If left untreated, they may lead to irritation or skin discoloration around the affected area.
What Treatments are Available for Varicose Veins?
Today’s vein treatments make it possible to improve both comfort and appearance with little downtime. Laser therapy can safely close off damaged veins beneath the skin, causing them to fade gradually as the body reroutes circulation through healthy veins. In some cases, sclerotherapy—a minimally-invasive procedure that involves injecting a solution into the vein—may also be used to help minimize prominent veins.
Treatment recommendations vary depending on the size and severity of the veins, and most procedures can be completed in-office with minimal disruption to daily activities.
Why Consider Visible Vein Treatment?
Although spider and varicose veins are rarely a serious medical concern, they often affect confidence and can lead to lifestyle changes, such as avoiding shorts, dresses, or swimsuits. Some patients also report mild swelling, heaviness in the legs, or discomfort in treated areas.
Treatment offers several benefits:
- Safe for a variety of skin types and treatment areas
- Restored confidence in your appearance
- Nonsurgical procedures with little to no downtime
- Noticeable results within weeks
What to Expect During and After Treatment?
Laser spider and varicose vein sessions typically last 30 minutes or less, depending on the size of the area. Patients may feel a mild snapping sensation during treatment, often compared to a rubber band against the skin, but discomfort is minimal and short-lived.
After treatment, mild redness or swelling may occur and usually resolves within a day or two. Patients can return to normal daily activities immediately, though hot baths, hot showers, and high-intensity exercise should be avoided for about two weeks. Veins gradually fade within three to four weeks, and multiple sessions may be recommended for optimal results.
Why Choose Lehigh Valley Weight Loss, Wellness, and Aesthetics for Spider and Varicose Vein Treatment?
At Lehigh Valley Weight Loss, Wellness, and Aesthetics, spider vein treatments are provided under the direction of board-certified physicians. John Scaffidi, MD, FABOM, FACOG, is a board-certified gynecologist and medical bariatrician who completed his residency as chief resident at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center. He has spent decades caring for patients, publishing research, and training other professionals.
Dr. Scaffidi provides physician-led oversight, ensuring every treatment is safe, effective, and tailored to patient needs.
Clearer Skin with Visible Vein Treatments in Bethlehem, PA
If spider or varicose veins are affecting your confidence or comfort, effective noninvasive treatments are available. With physician-directed care from Dr. John Scaffidi, you can reduce or eliminate unwanted veins safely and effectively. Call Lehigh Valley Weight Loss, Wellness, and Aesthetics today at (610) 821-8321 to schedule your consultation in Bethlehem, PA.