Why Medical Treatment Trumps Tattoos for Varicose Veins and Spider Veins
Tattooing over varicose veins and spider veins may seem like a convenient way to conceal them, but it's important to consider the potential risks and complications of “hiding” problem leg veins under the ink. While it is technically possible to tattoo over these veins, learn why getting medical treatment is a healthier, safer, and far better choice.
Varicose veins and spider veins are more than just cosmetic concerns; they are signs of vein disease. If left untreated, varicose veins can cause discomfort, pain, and even serious health issues such as blood clots and venous leg ulcers. While some may consider getting tattoos to cover up these veins, opting for medical treatment is a far safer and more practical choice.
In this blog, we'll delve into why it's imperative to seek medical intervention for varicose veins and spider veins, not just for physical health but also for overall well-being.
Understanding varicose veins and spider veins
First, let’s understand exactly what a varicose vein is. Varicose veins develop due to elevated blood pressure in blood vessels, particularly those near the skin's surface. Normally, blood flows towards the heart through one-way valves in the veins. However, when these valves weaken or sustain damage, blood accumulates within the veins, leading to enlarged, swollen, and twisted veins that usually appear blue or dark purple and often protrude from the skin's surface, usually in the legs and feet.
Per the National Library of Medicine (NIH), an estimated 20 percent of all adults will get varicose veins at some point in their lives.
Spider veins, on the other hand, are smaller, thinner veins that can be red, blue, or purple and often resemble spider webs or tree branches. Spider veins can appear anywhere on the body, including the face. While they seem harmless, spider veins could be accompanied by underlying venous reflux. Venous reflux is a sign of a vein condition called chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). CVI happens when the tiny valves in your leg veins become damaged and can't keep blood moving back toward the heart.
The risks of untreated vein conditions
While many mistakenly believe that varicose veins and spider veins are cosmetic issues, untreated varicose veins can lead to more serious health problems if left untreated. Varicose veins can cause symptoms such as pain, aching, heaviness, and swelling in the legs. In severe cases, they can lead to complications such as blood clots, ulcers, and skin changes.
Venous leg ulcers are the most common complication of varicose veins, with 3 to 6 percent of varicose veins sufferers developing open wounds that are slow and difficult to heal.
Spider veins, while generally harmless, can also cause discomfort such as aching, burning, or throbbing, as well as present self-esteem issues and embarrassment for those affected.
Why tattoos are not the answer for problem leg veins
Some individuals may consider getting tattoos to cover up their varicose veins or spider veins, believing this will camouflage the problem and improve their appearance. However, tattoos are not a suitable solution for addressing underlying vein issues and may even pose additional risks. Here’s why:
Reason #1: Covering varicose veins or spider veins with tattoos does not address the underlying venous insufficiency or circulation problems. While tattoos may temporarily camouflage the veins, they do not improve blood flow or prevent potential complications associated with untreated vein conditions.
Reason #2: Tattooing over varicose veins or spider veins can be risky, especially if the veins are swollen or inflamed. Injecting tattoo ink into compromised veins can lead to complications such as bleeding, infection, and poor healing. Further, Healthline warns that inking an already painful varicose vein will increase the pain of the tattooing process further.
Reason #3: A tattoo can alter the vein structure, making future vein treatment more difficult due to the changed appearance of the veins, potentially leading to serious complications.
Reason #4: All tattoos carry some risks. According to the Mayo Clinic, because tattoos break the skin, they can cause complications such as allergic reactions, skin infections, bloodborne diseases, and inflammation that can lead to keloids (a thick raised scar).
Caution: If you have varicose veins on your legs and are considering getting a leg tattoo for aesthetic reasons (not necessarily to cover the problem veins), you are advised to seek a consultation with a vein care specialist who can inform you of the placement of your new ink to avoid damaged veins that could rupture during the tattoo process. Varicose vein rupture can be a medical emergency.
The importance of medical treatment for problem veins
Seeking medical treatment for varicose veins and spider veins is essential for managing symptoms, preventing complications, and overall improving quality of life. Depending on the severity of the condition, recommended treatment options may include:
- Compression Therapy: Wearing compression stockings or socks can help improve circulation and alleviate symptoms such as swelling and discomfort.
- Sclerotherapy: This minimally invasive outpatient procedure involves injecting a solution directly into the affected veins, causing them to collapse and fade over time
- Varithena: A small injection of microfoam causes the affected veins to collapse. Blood flow is redirected to healthy nearby vessels.
- Endovenous Ablation: Using laser or radiofrequency energy, this procedure closes off diseased veins, rerouting blood flow to healthier veins.
- Ambulatory Phlebectomy: During this minor outpatient procedure, problem veins are removed through tiny incisions that require nothing more than a band-aid to cover; no general anesthesia is needed. Patients return to their regular activity immediately with few restrictions.
Don’t tattoo to cover varicose veins. Treat instead!
While tattooing over varicose veins may seem like a quick fix, ink does not solve the underlying venous disorders, and tattooing over varicose veins carries risks. Prioritizing medical intervention over tattoos ensures a better cosmetic outcome and a healthier and happier future. Unlike tattoos, which only provide temporary cosmetic improvement, medical interventions target the root cause of the problem—venous insufficiency (vein disease).
Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) is a nationally recognized leader in treating varicose and spider veins. They offer advanced, nearly pain-free solutions for varicose and spider veins at 110+ locations in 22 states nationwide. CVR has redefined vein treatment in the United States by emphasizing compassionate care and using the most modern treatment techniques. The clinics are IAC Accredited and have been evaluated and approved by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission.
CVR accepts many insurances, including Aetna, Amerigroup, Anthem, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Cigna, MultiPlan, Medicaid, Medicare, and more.
Call 240-965-3915 to speak to a Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR near you today.