Spider Vein Treatment in Melbourne
Fine red or purple spider veins on the surface of your legs are highly treatable. Our minimally invasive approach delivers visible results in weeks, not months.
What are spider veins?
Spider veins are fine, delicate veins on the surface of your skin that resemble a spider web or bruise. They are the smallest of the leg vein types we treat. They're one of the most common cosmetic complaints we treat, and they're highly responsive to modern minimally invasive procedures.
What causes spider veins?
Spider veins develop when tiny valves inside skin surface veins weaken, allowing blood to pool. Our guide to how leg veins work explains the valve system in more detail. Genetics play the strongest role, but hormones, standing for long periods, and age all contribute.
Do spider veins cause symptoms?
While most spider veins are purely cosmetic concerns, some patients report mild symptoms. Symptoms are often worse during or before menstruation or after prolonged standing.
Most patients seek treatment for:
Self-consciousness about visible veins, especially on thighs, calves, or ankles where they're most noticeable.
Occasional aching, heaviness, or itching in the affected area, especially in warm weather.
Wanting to wear skirts, shorts, or swimwear without feeling self-conscious about their legs.
How we treat spider veins
Three highly effective treatment options exist for spider veins. Which one is best depends on the size, colour, and location of your veins, as well as your personal preferences.
Surface Sclerotherapy
Our first-line treatment. A fine needle injects sclerosant directly into each spider vein, causing it to harden and fade over four to eight weeks. No anaesthetic needed. Also called microsclerotherapy or direct vision sclerotherapy.
Surface Laser Vein Treatment
For the finest, reddest spider veins. A Cutera Excel V laser beam seals the vessel from outside the skin. Ideal for needle-phobic patients or those allergic to sclerosant.
VEINGOGH Radiofrequency
VEINGOGH uses controlled radiofrequency energy delivered through a hair-fine probe to collapse spider veins. Works particularly well on the smallest, finest veins.
Compare all six treatments or see fees and Medicare rebates.
Important: Underlying varicose veins
If you have both spider and varicose veins in the same area, treating the varicose veins first produces better long term results. Larger veins should always be treated before smaller surface spider veins.
What results can you expect?
Most patients see significant improvement within 4-8 weeks. Treated veins don't return, though new spider veins may develop over time if you're genetically predisposed.
Timeline after treatment
Mild bruising or temporary darkening is normal. Avoid sun exposure and heat for 2 weeks.
Treated veins begin to fade. You may notice them turning from dark blue to light purple.
Veins continue fading. Most veins are largely resolved. Results continue to improve for 12 weeks.
Common questions about spider vein treatment
Clear answers to help you feel informed and confident about your treatment options.
Are spider vein treatments painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort. Sclerotherapy uses a fine needle, and laser and radiofrequency treatments feel like a light snapping sensation. No anaesthetic is required.
How many treatments will I need?
Most patients need 2-4 sessions, spaced 4-6 weeks apart. The exact number depends on the size, colour, and extent of your spider veins. We'll give you a realistic estimate at your consultation.
Can I return to normal activities?
Yes. Most patients walk out and return to work the same day. Avoid vigorous exercise, saunas, and direct sun exposure on treated areas for 2 weeks.
Will my spider veins come back?
Treated veins don't return. However, if you're genetically predisposed, new spider veins may develop over time. Long-term follow-up helps us catch and treat any new veins early.
Can I have treatment during pregnancy?
We recommend waiting until after pregnancy and breastfeeding. Many spider veins improve on their own postpartum. We can advise on management options during pregnancy.
What if I'm needle phobic?
Laser or radiofrequency treatments are excellent alternatives for needle-phobic patients. Both treatments have excellent results for spider veins without needles.
Ready to treat your spider veins?
Fine spider veins don't have to be a permanent feature of your appearance. Our minimally invasive treatments deliver visible results in weeks. Take the first step toward leg confidence today.
No waiting lists. Elite medical standards. Your privacy is our priority.
Not ready to book yet? Ask us first.
Send us a question about your veins, the treatments, or what a consultation involves. Your enquiry is confidential, and a member of our Melbourne team will reply within one business day.
Suite 14/45 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000