Ankle Vein Removal

Spider veins, thread veins, broken veins and dermal veins are different names for the same fine, dilated veins within the skin, often found around the ankle and extending over the feet. They may vary in colour and size from delicate pink lines to long, deep purple branches or thick bundles that look like a bruise. The tendency to get them is probably inherited but hormonal changes are also important since they commonly occur during pregnancy or during the menopause.

Spider veins form when the valves in your veins don't work as they should causing blood to leak back into the vein. This puts pressure on the walls of your veins, leading to swelling, making your vein enlarge. This is why spider veins are so visible.

They are commonly found on the ankles and feet as these veins are the furthest from your heart and are working against gravity to cycle blood back to your heart.

Currently there are many miracle creams on the market claiming to treat spider veins – these do not work. You cannot eliminate spider veins that have already formed without medical treatment.

The most effective way of managing these veins is by microsclerotherapy. In this treatment a sclerosant is injected into the vein causing the vein walls to stick together. A very fine needle is used and most people experience minimal discomfort. The vein is then absorbed into the body and disappears. A marked improvement can be seen after one treatment, however, further sessions may be required depending on the abundance of the spider veins.

There are steps that can be taken to prevent new spider veins forming. These include:

Regular exercise to get blood pumping around your body

Avoiding sitting or standing for long periods of time

Maintaining a healthy weight with a healthy diet

If spider veins run in the family, compressions stockings could be worn

No very hot baths or saunas – these can cause veins to enlarge

Moderate alcohol as too much can cause broken veins