Varicose Veins are enlarged veins that can be flesh colored, dark purple, or blue. They often look like cords and appear twisted and bulging. Usually, they are swollen and raised above the surface of the skin.

Spider Veins are those small clusters of red, blue, or purple veins that appear on the thighs, calves, and ankles. They are very similar to varicose veins, but smaller and closer to the surface of the skin. Spider veins can look like tree branches or spider webs with their short jagged lines. Although most commonly found on the legs and face, spider veins can cover a variety of skin areas.

A number of factors may contribute to the development of spider veins in the legs, the most common case, including:

• Heredity
  
• Pregnancy
  
• Hormonal shifts
  
• Exposure to the sun
  
• Weight gain
  
• Occupations or activities that require prolonged sitting or standing

Every patient heals at a different rate from varicose or spider vein treatment, which at Woolfson Cosmetic is most frequently done with laser techniques. However, you can expect that your recovery will follow this general time line:

Within the first week

• You will be encouraged to walk
  
• The treated sites may appear bruised and/or somewhat swollen

Within a few weeks

• The bruises at the treated sites will diminish
  
• The leg appears noticeably clearer and more attractive
  

Within a month

• Spider veins are distinctly lighter, yet may still be somewhat visible as the final healing stages continue