Spider Veins

Spider Veins (also called thread veins) are dilated blood vessels that have a red or bluish colour and appear on the surface of the skin; particularly the legs, face and elsewhere (eg chest and breasts).

Spider veins may be visible as short, unconnected lines each about the size of a large hair, they may be connected in a scraggly starburst pattern, or they may resemble a spider web or a tree with branches. They are most common on the outside of the thighs and around the knees but can occur anywhere on the legs or face.

What Causes Spider Vein Problems?

Spider (or thread) veins can occur…

  • After trauma and appear to be associated with obesity and with occupations involving prolonged standing.
  • Spider veins often occur in association with underlying varicose veins often not obvious due to their deeper location in the leg.
  • Generally spider veins will have been inherited genetically.

Treatments for Spider Veins

The doctors at Palm Clinic have treated thousands of patients over the last 13 years. They specialise in using the following advanced treatments for spider veins:

Photoderm or Aurora IPL are used for facial veins and microsclerotherapy (injection technique) or Coolglide Excel laser remain the mainstay of treatment for spider veins on the legs. See the links below for a full description of these techniques.

Preventing Spider Veins on Legs

  • Wearing specialised support stockings and pantyhose may prevent dilated blood vessels from developing in some people.
  • Maintaining an ideal weight and regular exercise - especially walking, may also be helpful.
  • Avoid wearing high-heeled shoes as they can restrict ankle movement and thereby affect the pumping mechanism of the large veins in the feet and calves.

For an appointment phone 09 5228128 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .