Aesthetic Medical Clinic
Thread Veins
Thread veins are incredibly common and not medically concerning, but many people find them a source of self-consciousness, particularly on the face and legs. At Simon Lee Clinic in Bristol, we treat thread veins regularly at our Bristol clinic, with results that are quick, effective and long-lasting.
Thread Veins
Also known as spider veins or broken veins, are small superficial blood vessels that become visible close to the skin surface as fine red, pink or claret lines. They vary considerably in size, from a single delicate line to an extensive network across the nose and cheeks. They are entirely benign, but for many people they are a persistent source of self-consciousness.
At our Clifton, Bristol clinic, we offer treatment for thread veins on both the face and the legs. The important distinction, which many clinics do not make, is that facial and leg thread veins of different sizes and flow rates require fundamentally different treatments. Knowing which to use, and when, is something our experienced team are well placed to guide you on.
Thread Veins on the Face
Facial thread veins appear most commonly around the nose, cheeks and chin. We treat these primarily with short-wave endovenous diathermy, a technique in which a very fine needle is placed in the vessel and a controlled electrical current coagulates it. It is well tolerated, requires no downtime and produces good results for the majority of facial thread veins. For more diffuse facial redness and rosacea-associated vessels, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is also available at our Bristol clinic.
Thread Veins on the Legs
Leg thread veins can appear anywhere from the thighs to the ankles and can sometimes be associated with increased venous pressure caused by underlying varicose veins. Unlike facial veins, leg thread veins rarely respond well to diathermy or IPL. Sclerotherapy is generally far more successful; a very fine needle is used to inject a solution that causes the vessel wall to close, which is then gradually absorbed by the body. We perform a brief examination to assess for venous incompetence before treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions, Thread Vein Removal
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How many sessions are needed?
Smaller clusters may respond well in one to two sessions. More extensive presentations typically require three or more. We give a realistic assessment at your initial consultation.
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Will thread veins come back after treatment?
Treated vessels are permanently destroyed. New thread veins can develop over time, particularly with continued sun exposure or a genetic predisposition. Many patients find periodic maintenance worthwhile.
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Is the treatment painful?
Diathermy involves a brief pricking sensation as the needle is placed. Sclerotherapy for leg veins involves multiple small needle insertions, which most patients describe as mildly uncomfortable rather than painful.
