At this time of the year, you may find yourself wanting to show off a bit more leg as the evenings grow longer and the temperature outside rises.

But if prominent leg veins are holding you back, Dr. Lisa Fay at Cosmetic Doctor in Dublin will be able to offer treatment options tailored to suit your needs.

As a doctor-led clinic, diagnosing and outlining the best course of action for any leg vein issues can help you find a solution to spider veins, reticular veins or varicose veins.

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are blood vessels that have become enlarged causing them to become visible underneath the skin.

A family history of varicose veins, prolonged periods on your feet, multiple pregnancies and being overweight are just some of the factors that can increase your risk of developing the condition.

Women are more likely than men to develop varicose veins, but men can suffer from them too.

The likelihood of developing varicose veins also increase with age, and it is important not to ignore them as left untreated they can lead to blood clots, skin discolouration and ulcers.

Minimize the risk of leg veins

While it is impossible to completely prevent the formation of varicose veins, you can reduce the chance of getting them by following the below advice:

• Exercise regularly to aid good circulation
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid long periods on your feet
• Don’t cross your legs
• Stop smoking

Varicose veins are treated nowadays with endovenous laser treatment which seals the vein shut from the inside, but please note that this treatment is not carried out by Dr. Fay.

Spider veins and Reticular veins

Spider veins (telangiectasias) form when small veins carrying blood form at the skin surface.

They are usually harmless but can be rather unsightly and prevent you from showcasing your legs in the summer.

Spider veins can be treated effectively by Dr. Fay with sclerotherapy which is a technique that diverts the blood elsewhere.

Reticular veins are a less well known leg vein problem, but they too can be treated by Dr. Fay using Nd: Yag laser treatment.

Larger than spider veins, but smaller than varicose veins (reticular veins are often approximately 2mm in diameter), this variant of visible leg veins is commonly found on the thighs, legs and ankles.

To find out more about treatment for spider or reticular veins, contact 01 685 3100.