You’re getting ready for a highly-anticipated cocktail party, and you’ve finally found the perfect outfit- even the right shoes. Just as you’re about to leave, you check yourself out in the full-length mirror once more. As you’re admiring the back of your little black dress, you notice something else — an unsightly blue spider vein on the back of your leg. Sigh. This does not go with the ensemble.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, varicose veins and spider veins affect a huge number of people in the United States and beyond, and more women are affected then men. These veins can be a source of annoyance and embarrassment, especially since they most often appear in “problem areas” (like the thighs and legs) that women are already self-conscious about. Besides being unattractive, these veins — especially varicose veins — may be related to serious health problems.
Luckily, there are options for dealing with spider and varicose veins. One such option is vein removal, performed by a licensed plastic surgeon. Interested? Read on…
What It Is
As explained on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service’s website, Womenshealth.gov, varicose veins are veins that have become enlarged and swollen- they often appear twisted and bugling. Varicose veins can be flesh-colored, blue, or purple. Spider veins are similar to varicose veins but are smaller, with small, jagged lines that give the appearance of spider webs or tree branches.
Vein removal (also called vein ligation or vein stripping) is a minor surgery procedure in which the upper end of a problematic spider or varicose vein is tied off, followed by a removal of the entire vein.
During the procedure, the upper end of the vein is tied off. An incision is then made below the vein. A flexible specialty instrument is threaded up to the first incision, and the vein is grasped and removed.
Vein removal is typically an outpatient surgery performed under regional or general anesthesia. Most people go home on the same day after surgery. Generally, most people are able to return to work after vein removal surgery in a few days and return to all normal activities within several weeks.
Who Needs It?
Vein removal is an option for anyone suffering from problematic or unsightly varicose or spider veins. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, problematic veins affect approximately 40% to 45% of men and 50% to 55% of women in the United States.
Because it is only a minor surgery, vein removal is often performed only for cosmetic reasons. However, vein stripping is also performed when a problematic vein is causing serious health risks, such as when the vein is bleeding, or causing ulcers to develop. Problematic veins can also cause considerable discomfort after prolonged periods of standing or walking. Vein removal may be performed to alleviate one or all of these problems.
Who Should Avoid It
Older adults with other serious health issues, for whom surgery may be too big of a risk, should avoid this vein removal procedure. This includes those who suffer from lymphatic system problems, blood-clotting disorders, and skin infections.
Pregnant women, people who have poor circulation in the arteries of the legs, and those who have an abnormal passageway between the veins and arteries of the legs should also avoid vein removal surgery.
Benefits
While other procedures may be performed to alleviate the discomfort or minimize the appearance of problematic veins, vein removal is perhaps the most permanent and effective option. Vein removal surgery removes varicose veins and prevents them from coming back in approximately 9 out of 10 people.
Besides the cosmetic benefits of having ugly varicose veins removed, the removal of veins increases healthy circulation and blood flow. Vein removal also prevents future health problems that may occur as a result of unhealthy veins, including ulcers and bleeding.
Risks
Scarring and the return of problematic veins are two risks involved with vein removal surgery. If there is damage within the deep vein system, vein removal surgery should be avoided, as it may worsen blood circulation problems.
Risk is increased if the surgery involves the largest vein in the leg (called the GSV, or great saphenous vein). Surgery involving this vein may involve the risk of numbness post-surgery.
In addition, vein removal surgery involves all risks associated with general surgery, including bleeding, infection, and the risks associated with anesthesia.
The Bottom Line
If you are healthy and absolutely HATE your varicose or spider veins (or the discomfort they bring you), vein removal is an effective option that may prevent many health issues in the future. Just make sure to speak with your doctor about any possible complications.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
