Laser vein removal or sclerotherapy: which is better for spider veins?
Sclerotherapy, an injection that collapses the vein, is the gold standard for spider and small varicose veins on the legs. Laser vein removal is better for facial veins, very fine leg veins too small to inject, and patients afraid of needles. Many patients need both: sclerotherapy for the larger feeder veins and laser for the fine ones that remain.
Choosing the right tool for each vein is what produces clear legs. Dr. Darvish has treated veins in Los Angeles since 2005 and offers both.
Sclerotherapy
- A fine needle injects a solution that irritates the vein lining so it seals and fades
- Best for leg spider veins and reticular veins 1 to 3 mm
- Compression stockings for a week or two afterward
- Two to four sessions typical
Laser vein removal
- Light energy heats and closes the vessel through the skin
- Best for facial veins, nose and cheek capillaries, and tiny leg veins
- No needles, no compression
See sclerotherapy and laser vein removal, and our page on spider and varicose veins.
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