Dr. Robert Cutchen Albuquerque & Santa Fe

Meet Dr. Robert Cutchen

In 2009, Dr. Cutchen founded Albuquerque Vein & Laser Institute, a clinic dedicated solely to the diagnosis and treatment of venous disease. His goal was to provide the most advanced diagnostic and treatment options all in the comfort of his office without the need for hospitalization. Our goal is to treat every patient the way we ourselves would hope to be treated.

Read Dr. Cutchen’s full bio here

Vein Treatments Albuquerque & Santa Fe

Vein Treatments

We provide our patients with the most advanced and comprehensive vein treatments. See the difference between before and after.

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Aesthetic Treatments Albuquerque & Santa Fe

Aesthetic Treatments

We utilize the power of advanced laser technology to treat a multitude of cosmetic concerns. See what a difference our treatments can make.

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Patient Resources Albuquerque & Santa FeDo you have a question?

Discover our FAQ pages to find your answers. If you still have a question, please call us at (505) 848-8346 and we will be happy to assist you.

How do Spider Veins Differ From Varicose Veins?

Although patients often use the terms Spider Veins and Varicose Veins interchangeably, these are two separate, albeit often related, issues with the health of your venous system.

Spider Veins Treatment Albuquerque & Santa Fe

*Individual results may vary.

Spider Veins and varicose veins are similar in that they are both unsightly, but easily treatable. However this is where their similarities end.  Spider veins are truly cosmetic in nature, even though they may sometimes be an indicator of more severe underlying vein problems.  Spider veins typically measure less than one millimeter in diameter and, unless clustered together, are typically not as noticeable to the eye as bulging varicose veins.  Spider veins appear as thread-like red, blue or purplish lines on the skin surface, often times resembling a bruise when they occur in clusters.

Varicose veins are the large bulging veins protruding above the level of the skin, often looking like bluish rope underneath the skin. These bulging veins tend to be associated with symptoms of heaviness and aching in the leg.

Both types of veins can be easily treated in the convenience of my Albuquerque vein center, though the treatment protocol differs for each type of diseased vein.    After an initial consultation and ultrasound (if patient presents with symptoms of varicose veins/venous reflux), a personal treatment plan will be developed that may include one or a combination of procedures. Varicose veins are primarily treated via endovenous laser ablation, often in conjunction with ambulatory phlebectomy and endovenous chemical ablation, depending on the severity and source of the diseased veins.  The “gold standard” treatment for spider veins is sclerotherapy injection, performed by our experienced Nurse Sclerotherapist, Bess Holt, RN. In the case of the finest threadlike veins on the nose/face that are too small to effectively treat with injections, we have the revolutionary VeinWave treatment available.

Request a Consultation

Simply fill out the form on this page, and one of our highly trained staff members at Albuquerque Vein & Laser Institute will reach out to your promptly to schedule your appointment.

Most varicose vein treatment is covered by insurance if the patient is symptomatic and if ultrasound shows venous reflux (backwards flow in the veins).  Treatment for the more cosmetic spider veins is not covered by insurance.  A series of 3-5 treatment sessions are typically needed for optimal results (although some patients may require more or fewer treatments).

Varicose veins should always be evaluated by a vein specialist, especially if they are symptomatic (painful, swollen, or if you have heavy, tired, achy legs at the end of the day).

Take the Next Step

If you are ready to treat your Varicose of Spider Veins, then it’s time to take the next step by calling our trusted staff at Albuquerque Vein & Laser Institute at 505-848-VEIN or fill out the form on this page and one of our staff members will reach out to you promptly.

Albuquerque Vein & Laser Institute is located in the Journal Center area of Albuquerque and proudly serves vein patients throughout the entire Albuquerque area, as well as Rio Rancho, Santa Fe, Santa Rosa, Los Lunas, and other areas throughout New Mexico.

**This blog provides general information and discussion about medicine, health, and related subjects. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately licensed physician.

** This blog provides general information and discussion about medicine, health, and related subjects. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately licensed physician.

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