What are Varicose Veins and Spider Veins?
Varicose veins in the legs are dilated, twisted veins just beneath the skin. They are part of a spectrum of clinical conditions known as Chronic Venous Disease (CVD).
They appear as greenish spots under the skin. Over time, they can become darker and more prominent.
They are the visible part of what happens inside the body.
Spider Veins or Telangiectasias
Telangiectasias, unlike varicose veins, are small vessels. They are often referred to as "spider veins" or "thread veins." These small vessels are intradermal, but their purple, red, or blue color makes them very evident.
Telangiectasias are unsightly and have an impact on people's self-esteem.
Beyond appearance, its presence can indicate a more serious problem.
Causes
Dilated veins and "spider veins" occur in both men and women. However, women are more prone due to hormonal changes and pregnancy.
Some factors contribute to its appearance:
- Obesity;
- Professions that involve long periods of standing;
- Contraceptives or other hormonal treatments;
- Sedentary lifestyle;
- Family background;
- A low fiber diet.
This is a very common problem. It is estimated that around 30% of the Portuguese population suffers from chronic venous disease.
Symptoms
People affected by this condition may also report swelling in the lower limbs, particularly the ankles and feet. This significantly impacts quality of life and daily activities.
The most common symptoms include:
- Tiredness;
- Pain;
- Heaviness in the legs;
- Cramps;
- Tingling and itching.
Over time, other, more serious skin changes may occur, such as eczema and pigmented (brownish) and/or atrophied skin.
Cases Before and After Treatments
See the difference in legs with varicose veins and spider veins, before and after treatments. These patients have restored the health and appearance of their legs.
Surgery – phleboextractions.
Radio frequency and phleboextractions.
Perforating vein ligation.
Treatments
How to treat varicose veins and spider veins? Treatment always depends on the patient's clinical situation. The best way to treat varicose veins and spider veins in the legs may involve integrating several techniques.
Sclerotherapy
It's known as "varicose vein drying." It involves the local injection of a liquid that causes the veins to collapse and disappear.
Learn more about Sclerotherapy →
CLaCS
Cryo-Laser and Cryo-Sclerotherapy is an innovative treatment that allows for fast results with fewer undesirable effects.
Radio frequency
Radiofrequency treatment is a minimally invasive procedure that allows the saphenous vein to be treated without removing it.
Learn more about Radiofrequency →
Stripping
Stripping consists of removing the great or small saphenous vein through a small incision.
Leg Makeover
It is a treatment for varicose veins and spider veins developed by Dr. Joana de Carvalho, which solves various problems affecting the lower limbs.
Dr. Joana de Carvalho undergoing varicose vein surgery on her legs.
Medical Specialist
in Vascular Surgery
Dr. Joana de Carvalho
- Graduated from the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto
- Specialist in Angiology and Vascular Surgery
- Fellow of the European Board of Vascular Surgery
- Member of the College of Phlebology
Specialist Doctor
in Vascular Surgery
Prof. Doctor Sergio Sampaio
- Graduated from the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto
- PhD from the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto
- Specialist in Angiology and Vascular Surgery
- Fellow of the European Board of Vascular Surgery
Specialist Doctor
in Vascular Surgery
Dr. José Carlos Vidoedo
- Graduated in Medicine from the University of Porto (FMUP)
- Specialist in Angiology and Vascular Surgery
- Fellow of the European Board of Vascular Surgery
- Author and co-author of several communications and articles.
Medical Specialist
in Vascular Surgery
Dr. Filipa Jácome
- Specialist in Angiology and Vascular Surgery
- Master's Degree in Medicine, from the Abel Salazar Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS)
- Guest Lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP)
- She was awarded 5 scientific merit awards.
Testimonials from Varicose Vein and Stroke Patients: Treatment
I want to thank the entire wonderful team at Allure Clinic, especially Dr. Joana de Carvalho, for her dedication, professionalism, and availability. I highly recommend it; I'm incredibly happy with the results.
Sonia Ferreira
Through my wife, I met Dr. Joana de Carvalho, a vascular surgery specialist. During the consultation and through the Doppler ultrasound, she told me I needed surgery, but there was an alternative method to the traditional procedure, which would have a faster and easier recovery. I went ahead with radiofrequency and phleboextraction, and it was the best decision I made. I was very apprehensive, but that was all it took. The surgery went very well; Dr. Joana de Carvalho was fantastic. The entire post-surgery situation went very well. I want to thank Dr. Joana de Carvalho and her entire team, who were very dedicated and attentive. Thank you very much.
Rui Manuel Cruz
I'm very happy with my experience here at Allure Clinic. The care, exams, and treatments are truly high-quality. Everything went as expected. Dr. Joana de Carvalho, as well as the staff I met, were always available whenever needed. The care is personalized, which is very important and comfortable. I definitely recommend Allure Clinic and will definitely return if necessary! Thank you all and a big THANK YOU!
Alexandra Morais
After years of discomfort and pain in my legs, I was done living like this. I started an online search, and Dr. Joana de Carvalho's name came up for the first time. I scheduled an appointment. My first impression: an excellent professional and a genuine connection. After analyzing and studying my situation, she suggested the best course of action: surgery. I confess I was scared and apprehensive, but Dr. Joana's compassionate approach helped me gain courage. The surgery went as smoothly as possible, as did the postoperative period, and I immediately began sclerotherapy. All I can say is: Bye-bye heavy, tired legs and sleepless nights. Hello, quality of life and miniskirts! Thank you, Dr. Joana de Carvalho, for your professionalism, commitment, and dedication.
Gisela Tomé
Excellent service, top-notch treatment, and excellent professionals! Thank you, Dr. Joana de Carvalho, Anabela Moás, and Susana. A big kiss to you all.
Maria de Fatima Duarte
I saw Dr. Joana de Carvalho on a television program and was very curious about the new CLaCS treatment, so I didn't hesitate to schedule an appointment. I've been a mother three times and have been bothered by tired legs for a few years now. I've just started the treatments and I believe the results will be very satisfactory. Dr. Joana is a very approachable, tireless, and human person, with whom we immediately felt great empathy and admiration for her professionalism.
Ana Nascimento
Being a professional requires doing what you love to the best of your ability and enjoying it. That's how I define Dr. Joana de Carvalho. She's a demanding, committed, and dedicated professional. All of this is reflected in the patient's post-treatment results.
It's an excellent team. Being welcomed by you to this clinic with such kindness makes me feel like part of the family. Thank you.
Eugenia Soares
Congratulations on the professional qualities of both Dr. Joana de Carvalho and the entire team. During this time, I found her to be a competent, hard-working, and very informative professional, who was always available and concerned about the patient. A conscientious, compliant, and motivated professional, who, even after the high-quality surgery, tried to provide everything in her power for a good recovery and maintenance of good practices.
Lurdes Varum
I'd been suffering from vascular problems for a few years. When I saw Dr. Joana de Carvalho on television, I immediately felt empathy for her. The way she spoke and explained her work conveyed confidence and security. Not even the fact that I had to travel approximately 430 km for the appointment made me think twice. During my appointment with Dr. Joana, everything was explained down to the smallest detail, from the triggering factor of my vascular condition to the possible treatments and recovery. Everything went as smoothly as possible. Dr. Joana's team is one of the most professional I've ever encountered, always helpful and available.
Maria Manuela Lapão
English (UK)