Spider veins are a common concern, especially among women in Singapore. These unsightly blemishes can affect your confidence and, in some cases, cause discomfort. Fortunately, effective treatments are available to help you achieve clearer, healthier-looking skin.

What are Spider Veins?

Spider veins, also known as telangiectasias, are small, dilated blood vessels that appear on the surface of the skin. They often look like tiny spiderwebs or starbursts, hence the name. While they are usually harmless, many people seek treatment for cosmetic reasons.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can contribute to the development of spider veins:

• Heredity: A family history of spider veins increases your risk.
• Prolonged Standing or Sitting: Occupations that require long periods of standing or sitting can impair blood circulation and contribute to spider veins.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts additional pressure on your veins.
• Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, birth control pills, and hormone replacement therapy can all play a role.
• Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet rays can damage the skin and contribute to spider veins.
• Trauma or Injury: Injuries to the skin can also cause spider veins.

Symptoms of Spider Veins

In many cases, spider veins do not cause any physical symptoms. However, some people may experience:

• Aches or discomfort
• Cramps
• Swelling
• Itching
• Tiredness in the legs

It’s important to note that spider veins can sometimes be associated with underlying varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency, a condition where the veins are not effectively returning blood to the heart.

When to Seek Treatment

While spider veins are not always a medical concern, seeking treatment is essential for permanent removal. Consulting a vein specialist is recommended to identify the most suitable treatment based on your specific condition. Furthermore, treatment is always recommended, both for cosmetic reasons and to prevent the risk of more serious health problems.

Spider Vein Treatment Options in Singapore

Several effective treatment options are available for spider veins in Singapore:

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy involves injecting a special solution directly into the affected veins, causing them to collapse and fade away. This minimally invasive procedure has been used for almost  years and has proven safe and effective. Sclerotherapy is suitable for spider veins and small varicose veins. Smaller spider veins usually disappear within six weeks, but larger veins can take up to four months to fade.

Laser Treatment

Laser treatment uses concentrated pulsed light to damage the spider veins, causing them to disappear. The Candela Vbeam laser is one such option.

Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency ablation uses controlled energy to target and collapse the spider veins.

Micro-Sclerotherapy and Needle Phlebectomy

Micro-sclerotherapy and needle phlebectomy are both effective treatments for spider veins and small varicose veins, but they have distinct differences.

A combination of these procedures is often used to achieve better results, as certain procedures are more suited to a particular segment of vein. Your surgeon will advise you on the best combination of therapy to achieve optimum results.

What to Expect During Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a relatively quick and straightforward procedure. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Consultation: Your doctor will assess your condition and determine if sclerotherapy is right for you.
2. Preparation: You may be advised to avoid certain medications, such as anti-inflammatories, for a few days before the procedure.
3. Procedure: The doctor will inject the sclerosing solution into the affected veins using a fine needle. You may experience mild discomfort or cramping during the injection, but it usually subsides quickly.
4. Post-Treatment Care: After the injection, the area will be wrapped with compression bandages or stockings to prevent blood from flowing back into the treated veins. You’ll be able to go home the same day, but you’ll need to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.

Aftercare Tips

To ensure the best possible results after sclerotherapy, follow these aftercare tips:

• Wear compression hosiery as directed by your doctor.
• Avoid anti-inflammatory medications for  hours after the procedure.
• Refrain from hot showers, baths, hot tubs, and saunas for  hours after the procedure.
• Protect the treated area from sunlight.
• Eat more fibre in your diet, and consume less sodium.

Benefits of Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy offers numerous benefits, including:

• Relief from pain and discomfort
• Enhanced leg appearance
• Minimally invasive procedure
• Quick recovery
• Minimal downtime
• Highly effective

Sclerotherapy is recommended for the treatment of spider veins and small varicose veins. Research suggests sclerotherapy can remove problematic veins in -% of cases with multiple treatments.

Preventing New Spider Veins

While sclerotherapy can effectively eliminate existing spider veins, it’s important to take steps to prevent new ones from forming:

• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Exercise regularly.
• Avoid prolonged standing or sitting.
• Protect your skin from sun exposure.
• Consider wearing compression stockings, which place slight pressure on your blood vessels and help to boost blood flow.

Spider Vein Treatment Singapore: Getting Started

If you’re looking for effective spider vein treatment in Singapore, the Singapore Vascular and Interventional Centre is an excellent option. Our team of experienced vascular surgeons offers comprehensive services, from diagnosis to treatment, using minimally invasive technologies for swift recoveries. Contact us today to book a consultation and discover the benefits of our personalised approach!