Do insurance companies pay for treatment of spider veins? If you only have spider veins and no symptoms, then your insurance company will not pay for treatment of spider veins as it is considered to be a cosmetic procedure. However, if you also have underlying reflux in your veins, then there is a possibility that your insurance company may authorize treatment, but you would need to obtain duplex examination to determine if you have reflux.
How are spider veins treated? Traditional sclerotherapy involves injecting medication (Sotradecol® or Asclera®) into your spider veins to make them fade and disappear. Surface laser sclerotherapy is non-invasive and uses laser to treat the spider veins on your face, legs and body. We offer both options and will discuss which is best for you at your consultation.
How long does the procedure take? Each treatment session lasts 30-45 minutes.
How many treatments will I need? It does take more than one session to successfully treat your spider veins. Your doctor will evaluate you at your consulation visit and provide you with an estimate of the number of treatments that will be optimal for you.
How quickly can I return to my normal activities? Patients can resume normal activities the same day, immediately following the procedure. You should wait one week before swimming if you receive injections and you should avoid sun exposure for two weeks if you choose laser sclerotherapy in order to achieve the best cosmetic results.
Will the spider veins come back? Once the spider veins are successfully treated, the treated veins will not return. However, you will form new spider veins in the future and can decide to treat them when they appear.
Are there any potential risks or complications? As with any medical intervention, potential risks and complications exist with the treatment of spider veins. Each patient should consult their doctor to determine if their condition presents any special risks. Your physician will review potential complications of the procedure at the consultation.
Dr. Gwon is a surgeon in the Temecula Valley with a practice that specializes in treating vericose veins and spider veins and also offers cosmetic treatments. The number for the Vein Clinic of Temecula Valley is (951) 600-9111. For more information, visit our website at www.fabulouslegs.com.