Vein Removal: Many people are embarrassed by the appearance of spider veins on the face or legs. Spider veins are actually dilated or stretched blood vessels that appear on the legs, not "broken" blood vessels, as is commonly thought. Their precise cause is unknown, but it is thought that heredity, excessive standing, weight gain, hormonal changes and pregnancy may be some of the causes. Laser technology has become an important factor in the treatment of vascular deformities such as hemangiomas, port wine stains, and spider veins. Endovascular laser therapy (EVLT) allows for the treatment of varicose veins using minimal incisions and laser ablation of the vein in the area above the knee. Our clinical center uses EVLT, laser therapy and sclerotherapy injections in combination to offer an aggressive approach to the treatment of problematic lower leg veins and spider veins. We typically treat larger varicose veins with either EVLT or sclerotherapy. Spider veins are treated with the laser. Most patients require 2 to 3 treatments spaced over 3 to 6 months.