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Have a question or want to book an appointment? Contact our skin experts today.
Spider veins are a common cosmetic concern that can affect confidence and comfort. At Healthy Skin Centre, we offer physician-led sclerotherapy treatments to safely reduce visible leg veins and restore a clearer, smoother appearance.
Book a consultation by calling us at 604.553.7546 (SKIN) or by booking your appointment online.
What Are Spider Veins?
Spider veins are small red, blue, or purple blood vessels visible near the surface of the skin. They often appear in web-like or branching patterns and are most commonly found on the legs.
While usually harmless, many patients seek treatment because of their appearance. Spider veins may also be associated with mild aching, burning, or heaviness in some cases.
What Causes Spider Veins?
- Genetics / family history
- Pregnancy and hormonal changes
- Standing or sitting for long periods
- Aging and reduced vein elasticity
- Weight changes
- Previous vein issues
- Sun exposure (especially facial veins)
- Reduced circulation over time
Although common, spider veins do not typically improve on their own and often increase gradually over time.
How Spider Veins Are Treated
Sclerotherapy: The Gold Standard
Sclerotherapy is the most established and effective treatment for leg spider veins. A specialized solution is injected into the targeted vein using a very fine needle. The vein walls collapse, seal, and are gradually absorbed by the body.
Blood flow is naturally redirected to healthier surrounding veins, and the treated vessels fade over time.
Best For:
- Spider veins on the legs
- Small blue or purple surface veins
- Clusters of visible cosmetic veins
What to Expect During Treatment
Consultation
Your visit begins with an assessment of the veins, your symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals.
Procedure
The treatment area is cleansed and multiple tiny injections are placed into the visible veins. Sessions typically take 30–45 minutes depending on the number of veins being treated.
Comfort Level
Most patients describe treatment as very tolerable, with brief mild stinging or pinching sensations.
After Treatment
In the first 24 hours, you can expect
- Mild aching, bruising, itching – take Tylenol or apply ice packs
- Most people are able to work and do normal activities the same day as their treatment
For 72 hours, please avoid
- Taking an anti-inflammatory unless you are taking ASA for a heart condition
- Hot baths, hot showers, hot yoga, all saunas, pools, lakes
- Alcohol
- Air Travel
- Car travel (over 2 hours)
- For 10-14 days avoid sunbathing and tanning salons
Compression Stockings
- You MUST wear medical-grade compression stockings for the first 24 hours after the treatment.
- After the first 24 hours, you MUST wear medical-grade compression stockings during the day for 1, 2 or 3 weeks post treatment as directed.
Recovery & Results
Downtime
Minimal downtime. Most patients return to normal daily activities immediately or the same day.
Results Timeline
Improvement develops gradually over several weeks as treated veins fade.
Number of Treatments
Multiple sessions are common depending on the number and size of veins.
Long-Term Outcome
Treated veins typically do not return, though new spider veins may form over time.
Aftercare Instructions
- Wear compression stockings
- Walk regularly after treatment
- Avoid prolonged sitting or standing initially
- Avoid hot tubs, saunas, and excessive heat for several days
- Protect treated skin from sun exposure
- Follow your personalized aftercare plan
Why Choose Healthy Skin Centre
- Physician-led care
- Experienced in cosmetic vein treatment
- Personalized treatment planning
- Modern techniques focused on comfort
- Natural-looking cosmetic results
Frequently Asked Questions
Is spider vein treatment covered by MSP?
Cosmetic spider vein treatment is not covered by MSP.
Is sclerotherapy painful?
Most patients experience only mild temporary discomfort.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on the amount and size of visible veins being treated.
Can spider veins come back?
Treated veins usually do not return, but new veins may develop over time.
When can I travel after treatment?
72 hours please avoid Air Travel and car travel over 2 hours.
Travel timing depends on your treatment plan. We will advise you individually.
Spider Vein Treatment in New Westminster
Healthy Skin Centre proudly serves patients from New Westminster, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Port Moody, Surrey, and Vancouver seeking safe and effective spider vein treatment.
Book Your Spider Vein Consultation
If you are bothered by visible spider veins, we invite you to schedule a consultation and learn whether sclerotherapy is right for you.