Spider Veins
Spider vein treatment in Walnut Creek & Napa is available at multiple BASS Vein Center locations throughout the East Bay and North Bay. With more than 20,000+ vein procedures completed, our board-certified vein specialists offer safe, proven treatment options for both cosmetic concerns and medically-related symptoms.
What Are Spider Veins?
Spider veins (telangiectasias) are small, dilated blood vessels that appear red, blue, or purple. They commonly form on:
- Legs (thighs, calves, ankles)
- Face (nose, cheeks, chin)
They create a web-like or branching pattern, and while usually not painful, they can be associated with underlying vein issues—especially on the legs.
What Causes Spider Veins?
Spider Veins on the Legs
Leg spider veins form when small valves inside the veins weaken. These valves normally keep blood flowing toward the heart. When they malfunction:
- Blood flows backward (reflux)
- Blood pools
- The vein expands and becomes visible
Common causes include:
- Genetics
- Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause)
- Prolonged standing or sitting
- Aging
- Excess weight
- Prior vein disease
Spider Veins on the Face
Facial spider veins result from broken or enlarged capillaries, often caused by:
- Sun damage
- Skin thinning with age
- Rosacea
- Excess pressure (sneezing, coughing, vomiting)
- Heat or extreme temperatures
Spider Vein Treatment Options
1. Conservative Options (Mild Cases)
These are recommended when spider veins are small and symptoms are minimal:
- Compression stockings
- Leg elevation
- Staying active
- Avoiding long periods of sitting or standing
These options do not remove spider veins but may slow progression.
2. Sclerotherapy (Most Effective Treatment)
Sclerotherapy is the gold-standard treatment for spider veins on the legs.
How it works:
- A solution or foam is injected into the vein
- The vein becomes irritated and seals shut
- Blood reroutes to healthy veins
- The treated vein fades over several weeks
Benefits:
- Performed in-office
- No anesthesia required
- Little to no downtime
- Best long-term cosmetic results
Several sessions may be needed depending on the number of veins.
3. Closure System Injections
Similar to sclerotherapy but uses a medical adhesive to seal the vein.
Best for: small-to-medium veins that don’t respond to traditional sclerotherapy.
4. Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT)
Used occasionally for deeper feeder veins contributing to spider veins.
- A tiny fiber is inserted into the vein
- Laser heat closes the vessel
- Vein collapses and is reabsorbed
Used only when spider veins are linked to underlying vein reflux.
5. Laser Treatment (Surface Laser)
Note: Not currently offered at BASS Vein Center.
Surface lasers can treat facial and very small spider veins, especially:
- On the nose
- Cheeks
- Lower legs
Are Spider Veins Dangerous?
Spider veins are typically cosmetic, but they can signal deeper circulation issues such as:
- Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)
- Varicose veins
- Reflux in feeder veins
Signs your spider veins may be more than cosmetic:
- Leg aching or heaviness
- Swelling
- Itching or burning
- Restless legs
- New spider veins appearing rapidly
Who Is Most Likely to Develop Spider Veins?
Spider veins are more common in:
- Women
- Adults over age 40
- People with a family history
- Pregnant individuals
- People who sit or stand for long periods
- Athletes with high leg strain
- Those with sun-damaged skin
Spider Vein Treatment Near You
BASS Vein Center proudly serves patients across the Northern California, including Walnut Creek, Napa, Plesanton, Brentwood, and more.
Our board-certified vein specialists provide individualized treatment plans to improve appearance, relieve symptoms, and address any underlying circulatory issues.
Ready to fade your spider veins?
Schedule a consultation with the experts at BASS Vein Center today.