Spider veins have no function and removing does no harm. The only reason they are removed is because of their unsightly cosmetic appearance. Varicose veins (which are superficial veins) are not functioning properly have a negative impact on venous flow, so removing them will actually improve vein activity. Only 10% of venous flow back to the heart are handled by these superficial veins; 90% of vein flow is actually controlled by the deep veins (veins deep in the leg surrounded by muscle).


Last updated on January 17, 2010 by Sarah Yousuff, MD