What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to treat unsightly varicose spider veins. These veins are treated by injecting a solution into the damaged veins. Sclerotherapy has been used on patients across the world since the 1930s and remains the gold standard for the treatment of spider veins on the legs.
Sclerotherapy Procedure
The number of injections made during each session depends on the number and length of the damaged veins. Typically, one injection is made for every inch of spider vein. A cotton ball and compression tape is applied to each injection site after the procedure is completed.
How long does a Sclerotherapy procedure take?
Sclerotherapy is performed in the doctor’s office and takes about 15 to 45 minutes.
Recovery & results of Sclerotherapy
Patients can return home shortly after Sclerotherapy, and most can return to work and other normal activities the same day. Exercise and other strenuous activities should be avoided for 7 to 10 days. Compression and support bandages may need to be worn for a few days after the procedure, and some patients may experience mild bruising and pigmentation after Sclerotherapy. These side effects usually subside on their own after a few days.
Since bruising may occur, it may be a few weeks before the true results of Sclerotherapy are visible. Results are usually fully visible after 3 to 6 weeks. It is reported that up to 80 percent of damaged veins can be eliminated during each Sclerotherapy session. Most patients are satisfied with the results of this procedure. Patients can help preserve the results of Sclerotherapy and prevent new veins from appearing by maintaining an active lifestyle after the procedure.
Does a Sclerotherapy procedure require anesthesia?
No anesthesia is needed for this quick and simple procedure, and most patients experience only minimal discomfort and a mild burning sensation. The skin is cleaned with an antiseptic solution and the sclerosant is then injected into the affected veins with a very fine needle.
Sclerotherapy risks
Although Sclerotherapy is a safe procedure that has been successfully performed for many years, there are certain risks and side effects associated with any medical procedure. Some of these side effects include lumpy, hard veins, raised red areas, brown lines or spots, swelling, allergic reactions, or infection. Your doctor will discuss these side effects with you and answer any other concerns you may have about the Sclerotherapy procedure.
Candidates for Sclerotherapy
Most patients with spider or varicose veins are good candidates for Sclerotherapy, although the procedure should not be performed on pregnant women or patients who have had a blood clot in the past. If you are interested in the Sclerotherapy procedure, please call us today to schedule a consultation.