What are often referred to as red, thread veins or spider veins, are enlarged capillaries that appear close to the surface of the skin. The reason for their development is unclear but is is thought that a variety of factors may be involved such as exposure to heat and sunlight (ultraviolet light) or physical trauma. Some medication and hormonal changes that women undergo during pregnancy and in later life are also thought to be factors. There is likely to be a genetic component whilst others may be more prone because of their work style especially if they are standing for long periods.

They are often referred to as red or thread veins or telangectasia. They can appear single or a collection of broken surface veins or as a complex network over a wide area. A network that seems to arise from a single point and radiating outwards are referred to as spider naevi .

 

Red veins are a cosmetic problem although the larger ones can sometimes feel uncomfortable. They are very close to the surface of the skin and normally less than 1-2 mm in diameter. If the veins are larger that this and deeper they are varicose veins and are more likely to be painful.

 

Although spider veins are cosmetically unsightly they can be treated successfully by non-invasive methods whereas varicose veins require surgical attention if they become a problem. Thermo-coagulation techniques offer a complete solution to the problem and can remove them completely

Rosacea is a particular problem which results in the production of a high concentration of ultra fine veins, some of which are visible to the eye but some just cause a general reddening to the affected area. It results in an over-reaction to the normal reaction of the skin to exposure to heat and can give rise to skin overgrowth. Rosacea can also be treated effectively by similar techniques to those for red veins.

 

Red veins can be treated by Veinwave, laser or by IPL (intense pulse light) methods. The techniques al rely on the thermo-coagulation property of blood. This means that if blood is heated then it coagulates or forms a clot which obstructs the blood flow. The means by which these techniques achieve this differs. Each is more suited to different situations. A personal consultation will determine which is the most suitable technique for the individual case.

 

Veinwave

Uses high frequency electrical microwave charge to cause a thermal lesion to eradicate thread veins. Excellent results especially suited for the face. Can treat veins up to about 1-2 mm in diameter.

Bio-Medlase Nd:YAG Laser

Uses a long pulse long wave length laser to cause the thermal effect. Laser pulse is tuned especially for the treatment of red veins without any risk of skin trauma. Excellent results on veins up to 2 mm diameter.

Bio-Medlase IPL

Especially good for reducing the problem of very fine veins and rosacea.

Red veins can be treated by Veinwave, laser or by IPL (intense pulse light) methods. The techniques al rely on the thermo-coagulation property of blood. This means that if blood is heated then it coagulates or forms a clot which obstructs the blood flow. The means by which these techniques achieve this differs. Each is more suited to different situations. A personal consultation will determine which is the most suitable technique for the individual case.

Veinwave red vein therapy is available in Leeds and York and laser treatments available in Leeds. A full consultation for red vein treatment will be given for every prospective patient to assess the area of concern and determine whether treatment is possible. The area will be assessed, the most appropriate treatment, the costs and likely outcome of treatment discussed.