Laser Vein Treatments
Leg veins, often visible as blue, red, or purple lines appearing on the surface of the skin, are a common concern for many adults. Many individuals seek treatment for cosmetic reasons or because of associated discomfort.
Dr. Patricia Richey is a board-certified dermatologist who has completed fellowships in both Mohs surgery and laser and cosmetic dermatology. She is a well-known laser expert with years of experience who completed her training at Harvard Medical School and the Wellman Center for Photomedicine, where Fraxel® laser, pulsed dye laser, cryolipolysis, laser hair removal and laser tattoo removal were invented.
Dr. Richey emphasizes that understanding the causes of leg veins, the variety of available treatments, and what to expect during recovery and in terms of effectiveness can help patients make informed decisions about their care.
Leg veins fall into two primary categories: spider veins and varicose veins. Spider veins are small, web-like clusters of thin blood vessels that sit close to the skin’s surface. They may appear red, blue, or purple and are usually less than 1 millimeter in diameter. Varicose veins, in contrast, are larger, rope-like veins that often bulge above the surface of the skin and can be associated with aching, heaviness, or swelling in the legs. Both types of veins are related to dysfunction in the venous system, the network of blood vessels responsible for returning blood back to the heart for re-oxygenation.
The leg veins are particularly susceptible to dysfunction because of the effects of gravity and the demands of upright posture. Healthy veins contain one-way valves that close to prevent blood from flowing backward. When these valves weaken or fail, blood can pool in the veins, causing them to dilate and become more visible.
Several factors contribute to this process. Genetic predisposition plays a significant role; individuals with a family history of vein problems are more likely to develop leg veins themselves. Age is another factor, as venous walls and valves can weaken over time. Female sex hormones influence vein health, making women more likely to develop leg veins, particularly during pregnancy, menopause, or while taking hormonal birth control. Prolonged standing or sitting, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle also increase pressure on the veins of the lower extremities and can accelerate the formation of both spider and varicose veins.
At Richey Dermatology, treatment options for spider veins include sclerotherapy (injection of a specialized solution directly into the veins) and laser treatment. Dr. Richey will obtain your clinical history and perform a physical examination during your consultation to determine which treatment options may work for you. Patients are advised to wear compression stockings after the treatment for optimal results.
At a Glance
Dr. Patricia Richey
- Board-certified dermatologist
- Fellowship-trained and board-certified Mohs surgeon
- Harvard fellowship-trained in lasers and cosmetics
- Author of innovative dermatology research and publications
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