Spider Vein Treatment, Removal | American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)

Spider vein treatment risks and safety information

Spider Vein Treatment Safety The decision to have spider vein treatment is extremely personal and you’ll have to decide if the benefits will achieve your goals and if the risks and potential complications are acceptable.

Your plastic surgeon and/or staff will explain in detail the risks associated with surgery. You will be asked to sign consent forms to ensure that you fully understand the procedure you will undergo, the alternatives and the most likely risks and potential complications.

Some of the risks include:

Unfavorable scarring
Bleeding (hematoma)
Infection
Poor healing of injection sites
Change in skin sensation
Damage to deeper structures — such as nerves, blood vessels and muscles — can occur and may be temporary or permanent
Allergies to tape, suture materials and glues, blood products, topical preparations or injected agents
Skin contour irregularities
Skin discoloration and swelling
Skin sensitivity
Ulceration
Pain, which may persist
Possibility of revisional surgery
Need for further injection therapy

Be sure to ask questions: It’s very important to ask your plastic surgeon questions about your procedure. It’s natural to feel some anxiety, whether it’s excitement for your anticipated new look or a bit of preoperative stress. Don’t be shy about discussing these feelings with your plastic surgeon.

Where will my procedure be performed?

Spider vein treatment is usually performed in your plastic surgeon’s office.

After your treatment, you may be instructed to wear support hose to help your legs heal. You may feel some cramping in your legs for the first day or two after treatment. This discomfort is temporary and usually doesn’t require prescription medication.

You will be given specific instructions that may include: How to care for your legs following treatment, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the risk of infection, and when to follow-up with your plastic surgeon.

When you go home

Should any complications occur, notify your plastic surgeon who will determine if any additional treatment is needed.

Be careful

Following your physician’s instructions is key to the success of your treatment. It is important that the injection sites are not subjected to excessive force, abrasion, or motion during the time of healing. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself.