It is done in our office. It generally does not require any type of anesthesia. The patient is asked to bring a pair of loose-fitting shorts and the spider veins are identified. With a very fine needle, these spider veins are injected with a chemical that will destroy the vein. There is minimal pain. For those who are unable to tolerate the pain, a topical local anesthetic can be pasted on the skin about 30 minutes before the procedure.


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