Thread veins are fine red/ purple blood vessels that can be seen close to the surface of the skin. They are also known as telangiectasia or "spider veins".
There is no clear-cut cause for the development of thread veins however there is a range of possible contributory factors. These include; The ageing process, loss of skin elasticity, hormonal changes associated with pregnancy and menopause, cortico-steroid medicines and radiotherapy, excessive exposure sun/ wind or extreme temperatures. Standing for long periods of time can also exacerbate the appearance of thread veins in the legs.
At Richmond Cosmetic Clinic, we offer Microsclerotherapy, the gold standard treatment for leg thread veins. Microsclerotherapy is considered the most effective treatment for leg thread veins. Prior to treatment the doctor will carefully assess the client’s venous system within the affected leg using ultrasound. Once the superficial and the deep venous systems have been defined Microsclerotherapy is performed by inserting “Fibrovein” using a fine needle into the target veins. This damages the veins, preventing further blood flow (which is re- directed back to the deeper veins). The damaged veins are broken down over a period of weeks following treatment and are naturally eliminated by the body. Typically, three treatments are required three months apart. It can take between 12-18 months to experience optimal results.
Possible side effects of Microsclerotherapy include bruising, swelling, blistering and pigmentation. In most of the clients, side effects settle within two weeks of treatment
Day to day activities can be resumed straightaway. There is no need to take rest or have time off from work after the treatment.
The procedure is performed by Dr Baba, a highly trained and experienced aesthetic doctor who is also a senior trainer for this procedure at London Aesthetic Academy (www.londonaestheticacademy.co.uk)