Varicose Veins Vs Spider Veins

Spider veins and varicose veins are two venous diseases that affect millions of people in the United States. These conditions can cause unsightly features to develop, and can even become painful if the underlying causes are not treated.

No matter which way you look at it, vein removal procedures in Miami will be top on your list the moment you or your family members notice those veins creeping up your legs. Whether they are spider veins or varicose veins, they’re not attractive, and in many cases – not healthy.

At Fox Vein and Laser Experts, a leading vein center Miami, we’ve helped thousands of clients treat venous disease and remove those deep veins. But before you make the decision vein removal treatment Miami, it’s important to understand the difference between spider veins and varicose veins.

What Causes Spider Veins?

Spider veins – the kind you notice in small groups underneath your skin, are not just reserved for the legs. According to Web MD, Spider veins are smaller, red, purple, and blue vessels that also twist and turn. Spider veins are easily visible through the skin, as well. They are typically visible on the legs and face. Since spider veins are smaller and usually less extreme than varicose veins, there isn’t always a sense of urgency to remove these – but beware, as they spread quickly and almost 60% of people with them have symptoms.

What do spider veins look like?

1) A cluster of small, dilated veins that appear close to the surface of the skin.

2) Spider webs or branches, usually red or blue in color.

What is the difference between Spider veins and Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins tend to be larger than spider veins. These include the larger veins responsible for supplying tissues with a larger amount of blood. These also tend to be deeper in the skin than the blood vessels responsible for spider veins, but their expansion tends to be larger. This is why varicose veins are often felt rather than seen. They can cause everything from rigid bumps to painful swelling.

What do varicose veins look like?

1) Veins that are dark purple or blue in color

2) Veins that appear twisted and bulging; often like cords on your legs

Facts About Spider & Varicose Veins

1) Veins transport blood requiring oxygen back to the heart

2) Varicose Veins can cause discomfort or leg ulcerations

3) Varicose Veins are due to failing vein valves or weakened vein walls

4) Veins are usually not dangerous

5) Spider Veins are formed in capillaries – tiny blood vessels, one blood cell in thickness

Did you think varicose veins and spider veins were the same? You’re not alone.

If you’re like most people, you use the terms varicose veins and spider veins interchangeably. In fact, however, these two conditions are quite different, with varying causes and treatment options. Read on to learn more about the characteristics that distinguish varicose veins from spider veins.

1) Both varicose veins and spider veins are blood vessels that twist and turn and are easily visible through the skin. However, varicose veins are much larger and swollen, raised above the surface of the skin, typically appearing only on the legs.

2) Some women develop varicose veins in the pelvic area during pregnancy. Spider veins are much smaller and can appear on the legs as well as the chest and face.

3) Varicose Veins are usually caused by damage to the valves in the veins, which causes blood to back up within the vessels. While this condition can cause spider veins as well, the smaller visible veins are also caused by hormones, sun exposure, and injury to the affected area.

4) Spider veins are more common among those who are frequently exposed to the sun.

Spider veins rarely cause symptoms, though they are occasionally linked to minor itching and burning. However, varicose veins can lead to other medical complications.

Risk Factors of Varicose Veins and Spider Veins:

However, the two types of veins share many similar risk factors. You are more at risk for developing visible veins if you are older than age 50, have a family member who has varicose or spider veins, are undergoing hormonal changes, are pregnant, or are obese.

While spider veins and varicose veins are similar in the cause, there are some differences that may make you want to have varicose veins treated first, if you are facing that decision. Both conditions are the result of blood backing up in the veins and causing them to become enlarged and visible through the skin.

While similar to spider veins, varicose veins are larger and often cause bulges to stick up at the skin’s surface. They happen most frequently in the legs. The reason is that the legs are further from the heart than most other body parts. In addition, since they are lower to the ground in relation to the heart, the blood must be pumped against the pull of gravity in order for it to be returned to the heart and lungs. This gravitational pull consequently tends to make the blood in these vessels flow backward.

There are some valves in the veins that are there to counteract this tendency and make sure the blood can only flow in the right direction. When these valves stop working as they should, the resulting backup of blood in the veins causes it to pool. This leads to the development of varicose veins that twist and turn. The condition can at times be discomforting and even painful.

Spider veins, on the other hand, are smaller and typically do not cause any threats to an individual’s health. They can cause an appearance that makes many people want to have them treated. Unlike varicose veins that appear predominantly in the legs, spider veins are common on the legs, chest, and face. They are also visible through the skin, giving an appearance that resembles a spider’s legs as they twist and turn, sometimes with jagged corners.

If you have varicose veins, you may experience aching, throbbing pain in the affected area. Left untreated, these veins can lead to sores or skin ulcers, significant blood loss in case of injury to the area, a superficial blood clot, or deep vein thrombosis (which can be life-threatening).

Varicose Veins vs Spider Veins Treatments

If you are experiencing varicose veins or spider veins and are wondering about treatments for one or the other, there is good news. Treatments are available for both. If, however, you have both conditions and are struggling over which condition to have treated first, there are some things you may want to take into consideration. When it comes down to treatment options for spider veins vs varicose veins, there are some differences.

If you have either of these conditions and are apprehensive about a treatment that involves surgery, other options are available. Laser treatments are frequently performed to remove spider veins and varicose veins. This is done by using a laser unit to emit highly-concentrated beams of light into the targeted vessels. The heat produced by the laser destroys the vein. It will then be absorbed by the body and disappears in a few weeks.

Sclerotherapy is perhaps the oldest treatment method in use today that is done for both varicose veins and spider veins. It is performed by injecting a solution into the veins that are to be removed. This solution causes the walls to collapse and stick together. The vessels then disappear in a short time.

Contact us at Fox Vein & Laser Experts

When it comes down to the different treatment options for spider veins vs varicose veins, there is not one-size-fits-all technique. If you are struggling with either or both of these conditions and are wondering what options are available, have a conversation with our professionals at Fox Vein & Laser Experts, with offices in Pembroke Pines and Hollywood. We can evaluate your condition and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

Dr. Susan Fox, owner, and founder of Fox Vein & Laser Experts says, “The ultimate complaints about spider veins are that they’re aesthetically unpleasing, especially in an aesthetic conscious area like Miami Beach, but with varicose veins, there are some physical issues that present as well. Painful signs and symptoms of varicose veins, such as an achy or heavy feeling in your legs burning, throbbing, muscle cramping and swelling in your lower legs or worsened pain after sitting or standing for a long time, make varicose vein removal a priority.”

So, how does Fox Vein and Laser Experts remove varicose and spider veins safely and effectively?

Spider veins typically require more precise treatments, like laser vein treatment Miami, ambulatory phlebectomy direct injections, which in turn seals the veins. Varicose veins often require a more robust approach. Foam Sclerotherapy, for example, sticks to the walls of the vein on the treated area. This allows the vein lining to become inflamed and to gradually seal shut. Venaseal is where a crazy glue is injected into the veins which cause the veins to seal shut. Endovenous laser Ablation is where a laser is placed inside the vein that heats the vein and closes it off. Clarivein is where a wire is placed inside the vein to irritate the vein lining and then a solution is injected which causes the vein to scar shut. Phlebectomy are used in some instances to remove tortuous ropey unsightly veins. This is where extremely tiny incisions are made and the vein is sealed shut. All of these procedures in turn diminish the blood flow past the treatment area. This allows varicose veins to be absorbed by the body.

Call us today for your vein removal consultation to learn about the many treatment options for vein removal and vein treatment!

Top Benefits of Choosing VeinGogh Treatment in Miami, FL

June 29, 2024

If you’re living in Miami and in search of a safe and effective solution for unsightly and uncomfortable spider veins, VeinGogh treatment may be just the right treatment you’ve been looking for.

This innovative procedure offers a variety of benefits, providing a quick, safe, and reliable way to eliminate small spider veins on your face, legs, feet, or anywhere else on the body they may be present.

VeinGogh vein treatment is a cutting-edge method used specifically to treat spider veins and small varicose veins. The procedure uses Ohmic Thermolysis technology, which delivers microbursts of high-frequency energy directly to the vein, causing the vessel walls to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body.

This revolutionary technology is able to target spider veins with such precision that it avoids damaging the surrounding tissue or leaving scars on the skin. This makes it a much more preferred choice compared to other traditional vein treatment methods.

VeinGogh is minimally invasive and typically performed in a medical office. First, you’ll come into the office for a consultation with a vein specialist who will evaluate your medical history, as well as the current state of your veins to determine if VeinGogh is the right option for you.

Remember, not all veins are treatable with VeinGogh. A patient who is suffering from larger varicose veins or feeder veins may not be a candidate for the procedure. This will all be discussed during the initial consultation.

On the day of the treatment, the targeted area will be cleaned, and a topical anesthetic may be applied to ensure your comfort. The procedure involves a frequency regulator called Microburst Technology, which is delivered to the affected veins. These bursts are incredibly short — only a fraction of a second. The veins will shrink and eventually disappear, and blood is then rerouted to healthy veins.

Because of how quick and precise the bursts of energy are, it is a more comfortable experience, safe for all skin types, and there is largely decreased risk for visible scars. The process only takes around 30 minutes, depending on the size and number of veins being treated.

After the treatment, you may experience minor redness or swelling in the treated area, but these side effects are usually temporary. There is no downtime, and you can return to your normal activities immediately.

VeinGogh Treatment is an excellent option for many individuals, but it’s particularly beneficial for those who have small, superficial veins; are looking for a minimally invasive solution; have tried other spider vein treatments without seeing any success, and are in generally good health. Patients who have certain significant underlying conditions could experience complications during the procedure.

Choosing this particular option for spider vein treatment has numerous advantages. Some of the benefits of VeinGogh include:

1. Precision and Control: VeinGogh allows for precise targeting of veins, ensuring effective treatment with minimal impact on surrounding tissues.

2. Quick and Convenient: The procedure is very quick, typically taking only around a half hour to an hour, depending on the size of the area. It requires no downtime, allowing you to resume your daily activities immediately.

3. Minimal Discomfort: The treatment is virtually painless, with most patients experiencing only minor discomfort during the procedure. It’s a much more comfortable procedure when compared to other traditional methods.

4. Effective Results: VeinGogh effectively eliminates spider veins and small varicose veins, providing visible results after just one session. It also provides flexibility to treat other types of skin imperfections such as rosacea cherry angiomas.

5. Safe for All Skin Types: Unlike some laser treatments, VeinGogh is safe for all skin types and tones, making it a versatile option for a diverse range of patients.

6. No Scarring: The precision of the VeinGogh system ensures that there is no scarring or significant skin damage, preserving the aesthetics of the treated area.

7. Long-Lasting Effects: Results from VeinGogh are long-lasting, especially when supplemented with a healthy lifestyle and proper vein care post-treatment. After treatment, patients continue to see improvement over time as the veins are absorbed and removed by the body.

VeinGogh is safe and effective when done on its own, but it can also be used in conjunction with Sclerotherapy for even better results. Sclerotherapy is another treatment used for spider vein removal that uses injections with medication in liquid or foam form. Just as with VeinGogh, it’s a very quick procedure that provides optimal results.

South Florida is home to top-notch medical facilities and specialists, so if you are looking for VeinGogh treatment in Miami, you have come to the right place. The expert team at Fox Vein & Laser Experts have several years of experience providing patients with successful VeinGogh procedures, as well as numerous other vein treatments.

If you are struggling with small spider veins and seeking a safe, effective solution, consider all of the benefits of VeinGogh treatment. With its precision and effectiveness, minimal discomfort, and long-lasting results, VeinGogh offers an ideal option for treating spider veins and small varicose veins. Contact our office at 954-627-1045 for a consultation or book an appointment online.

Skin Rejuvenation

Prepping for Your Skin Rejuvenation Treatment: What You Need to Know

June 28, 2024

We all want radiant and youthful skin, and one of the best ways to achieve this is by adding a skin rejuvenation treatment series into our routine.

There are a variety of treatments that can be considered skin rejuvenating. Laser procedures are safe and effective for treating more serious skin concerns. These devices work by targeting specific skin concerns such as pigmentation, wrinkles, and scars by stimulating collagen production and resurfacing the skin.

For laser skin rejuvenation in Miami at Fox Vein & Laser Experts, we offer PicoWay® Resolve, which is a fractional laser treatment that utilizes the shortest wavelength of laser energy available on the market today.

It is safe for all skin types and shades. Due to the energy being delivered in such short bursts, the skin never heats up too much. That results in a much more comfortable experience for the patient, with optimal results and no need for extended downtime.

Additional options to rejuvenate the skin include microneedling, facials and chemical peels. Microneedling involves using a device with tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin. These injuries trigger the skin’s natural healing process, resulting in increased collagen and elastin production, which improves skin texture and firmness.

Facial treatments range from basic facials to more advanced ones like chemical peels and microdermabrasion. Facials aim to cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate the skin, while advanced treatments target specific concerns such as acne, hyperpigmentation, and aging.

The secret to maximizing the benefits of these treatments, however, lies in proper skin preparation.

Preparing your skin before any rejuvenating skin treatment ensures optimal results, minimizes risks, and promotes faster healing. Here are some basic things you should know about prepping your skin for a rejuvenation treatment:

Consultation and Assessment: Before undergoing any skin rejuvenation treatment, a thorough consultation with a qualified skincare specialist is essential. They will assess your skin type, concerns, and medical history to recommend the most suitable treatment and preparation steps.

Avoid Sun Exposure: This is incredibly important. Sun exposure can increase the risk of complications during and after a treatment. For at least two weeks prior to your appointment, avoid excessive sun exposure and always wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. If you have a sunburn, we recommend rescheduling your treatment.

Discontinue Certain Medications and Products: Some medications and skin care products can increase skin sensitivity. Inform your provider about any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter products. Typically, you will be advised to stop using retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and other exfoliants at least a week before treatment.

Hydrate and Moisturize: Your skin will respond better to the treatment and heal faster when it’s well hydrated. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your treatment and use a good quality moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. Avoid using any new products that could potentially irritate your skin.

Cleanse Your Skin Thoroughly: On the day of your treatment, cleanse your skin thoroughly to ensure all makeup is gone, and any oils and impurities are cleared away. Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser, and avoid scrubbing your skin. It’s important that your skin is clean and free of any barriers that could interfere with the treatment.

Follow Pre-Treatment Instructions: Each type of skin rejuvenation treatment may have specific pre-treatment instructions. During your initial consultation, our team will go over all of these instructions with you to make sure you are well-prepared for treatment day.

For laser treatments specifically, avoid photosensitizing agents. Certain skincare ingredients and medications can make your skin more sensitive to light. Avoid these for at least a week before your laser treatment.

For microneedling, you may want to consider numbing cream, especially if you are sensitive to pain. Microneedling can be uncomfortable on certain parts of the face and body. Numbing cream can be applied about 30 minutes prior to the treatment. If you think you may want to do this, make sure to account for that extra time when scheduling the appointment.

Proper post-treatment care is just as crucial as pre-treatment preparation. It’s important to follow your provider’s instructions to ensure optimal healing and results.

After getting a skin rejuvenation treatment, you should:

Avoid prolonged sun exposure and use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 diligently.
Keep the treated area clean and moisturized.
Avoid strenuous activities that cause sweating for a few days.
Not pick or scratch the treated area to prevent scarring and infection.

Proper skin preparation is the foundation for a successful skin rejuvenation treatment. If you follow all the steps outlined above, as well as anything else that your provider suggests, you are more likely to achieve your skin goals. This also minimizes the risk of developing complications.

With the right preparation and care, you’re on your way to enjoying healthier, more radiant skin.

To schedule an appointment with our skin rejuvenation specialists at Fox Vein & Laser Experts, contact us at 954-627-1045 or book online.

Laser Hair Removal

6 Life Changing Benefits of Laser Hair Removal

June 27, 2024

When it comes to our personal care routine, most people prefer to seek out products and treatments that are known for their convenience and efficiency. One of those personal care routines that is both a necessity and a hassle is hair removal.

Traditional hair removal methods like shaving, waxing, and tweezing can be time-consuming, painful, and only offer temporary results. Laser hair removal, or laser hair reduction treatment, is the long-term solution you’ve been waiting for.

If you have been considering laser hair removal, but haven’t yet booked the treatment, understanding its benefits can help you make a final decision. Here are six life-changing benefits of laser hair removal:

1. Long-lasting Results

The biggest advantage of laser hair removal over other methods is its potential for long-lasting results. Shaving, waxing, and tweezing need to be repeated on a regular basis — sometimes even every day.

Alternatively, laser hair removal targets the hair follicles directly, eventually damaging it enough to significantly reduce hair regrowth. After a series of about 4-8 sessions, depending on the area being treated, most people will experience a substantial reduction in hair growth. This also leads to smoother skin, and much less maintenance needed.

2. Precision and Effectiveness

Laser hair removal offers unparalleled precision. At Fox Vein & Laser Experts, we use the GentleMax Pro®, which is known to be the most effective and gentle machine on the market. It is powerful enough that it can lessen the amount of visits needed in order to see optimal results. The

Our aesthetician can customize the treatment to each individual patient using the device’s precise technology, and provide a comfortable experience with very little to no side effects and no downtime.

The laser technology is designed to target the hair follicles while leaving the surrounding skin undamaged. This makes it an ideal solution for treating small areas like the upper lip, chin, and bikini line with high precision.

Additionally, it can adjust to different skin types and hair colors, ensuring effective and safe treatment for just about everyone.

3. Time and Cost Efficiency

Don’t let the upfront cost of laser hair removal scare you away. While it may appear higher compared to traditional methods, it is a cost-effective solution in the long run.

Consider how much you spend overtime on razors, shaving creams, waxing kits, and salon appointments. Laser hair removal reduces, and sometimes even eliminates the need for all of these recurring expenses.

It’s not just your money you’ll be saving though — it’s your time too. When you don’t have to engage in these regular hair removal routines, you’re freeing up a significant amount of time for yourself. That means more leisure time and less hassle. Ideal for parents and busy professionals!

4. Improved Skin Health

Shaving is almost synonymous with skin irritation, razor bumps and burns, ingrown hairs, and even infections. Waxing can cause burns and irritation too. Laser hair removal, on the other hand, can help mitigate these issues.

By targeting the hair follicle and reducing the frequency of hair removal, the skin has more time to heal and regenerate. Most people who have gone through with laser hair removal say that their skin is smoother and healthier as a result of the treatments. Even better, if you are someone who is prone to skin issues related to shaving or waxing, laser hair removal can be a game-changer.

5. Boost in Confidence

This benefit is more about our own personal mindset. Having visible, unwanted hair in certain places can be a source of embarrassment and self-consciousness for many people. Whether it’s facial hair, underarm stubble, or leg hair, constantly worrying about visible hair can definitely have an effect on confidence.

Laser hair removal offers a more permanent solution, allowing individuals to feel more confident in their appearance. This boost in self-esteem can positively impact various aspects of life, from social interactions to professional settings.

6. Convenience and Comfort

Laser hair removal treatments are relatively quick. For small areas like the underarms or upper lips, sessions are only a few minutes. Larger areas like the legs or back can take around an hour, but no more than that.

With today’s advanced laser technology, there is nowhere near as much pain associated with the treatments as there was in the past. Most people describe the feeling as mild pinching or tingling.

There is also no need for downtime, so you can return to your daily activities immediately after a session. You may see mild redness or bumps after the treatment, but those side effects disappear very quickly

Laser hair removal offers numerous life-changing benefits. From the long-lasting results to the significant amount of time and money saved in the long run and everything in between, it has proven to be the superior alternative to traditional hair removal methods.

For those in Miami seeking an effective and permanent solution to unwanted hair, our laser hair removal Miami clinic provides state-of-the-art services designed to meet diverse needs. Book your appointment now to get started, and you’ll have smooth, hair-free skin in no time.
Contact our office at 954-627-1045 or book online.