Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy
The Path to Vein-free Legs
Varicose veins, those dark, unsightly bulges that mar the appearance of smooth legs, are a common concern for many people. A simple, minimally invasive solution known as Sclerotherapy has risen in popularity as the procedure of choice to eliminate these veins.
Sclerotherapy involves the injection of a solution, often a salt solution, directly into the vein. The solution irritates the lining of the blood vessel, causing it to collapse and stick together and the blood to clot. Over time, the vessel turns into scar tissue that fades from view, effectively making the varicose veins disappear.
The treatment, which typically takes less than an hour, can effectively treat varicose and spider veins. Though it’s primarily used for cosmetic purposes, it can also improve related symptoms such as aching, swelling, burning, and night cramps.
The results of sclerotherapy are not immediate. It usually takes a few weeks to see the full effect of the treatment, and in some cases, several treatments may be needed. The good news is that the success rate of sclerotherapy is quite high, with approximately 50 to 80 percent of injected veins being eliminated with each session.
Following the procedure, treated veins tend to fade within a few weeks, although occasionally it may take a month or more to see the full results. In general, spider veins respond in three to six weeks, and larger veins respond in three to four months.
Post-treatment, patients are usually advised to walk and to avoid strenuous exercise for a couple of days. Compression stockings or bandages may need to be worn for a week or two to maintain pressure on the treated veins.
With a clear aesthetic benefit and a straightforward procedure, sclerotherapy has become a favored treatment for varicose and spider veins. As with any medical procedure, a consultation with a qualified healthcare professional is the first step to determine if this treatment is right for you.
The journey to a more confident you starts with one decision. That is the decision to get treated, why wait Book Online today? If you’re on the fence or have questions brewing, remember: We at SullivanDermatology are always here to help.
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SCLEROTHERAPY
Small visible veins (also known as spider veins) that you would like to see removed for a more youthful skin surface.
Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution, often a strong salt-water solution, directly into the vein that causes the vessel to be reabsorbed by the body. As the collapsed vein is reabsorbed into skin, the evidence of the offending vessel eventually fades. Sclerotherapy is the best treatment for spider veins of the legs. The treatment is minimally invasive. Patients lie on their back and after the treatment area is cleansed with alcohol, Dr. Sullivan uses a fine needle to slowly insert the solution into the vein. Some patients experience minor stinging or cramps when the needle is inserted but it lasts for only a few seconds.
The decreased appearance of small or spider veins on the skin. Treated veins tend to fade within days to weeks, but it may take longer to see the full results. Usually it takes several sessions to achieve desired results. Risks include bruising, small sores, hyperpigmentation and telangiectasia.
FAQs About Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicose and spider veins. It involves the injection of a solution into the vein that causes it to collapse and eventually fade from view.
The injected solution irritates the lining of the blood vessel, causing it to stick together and the blood to clot. Over time, the vessel turns into scar tissue that fades, effectively eliminating the appearance of the vein.
Most patients experience little to no discomfort during sclerotherapy. Some may feel minor stinging or cramps when the solution is injected.
A sclerotherapy session typically takes less than an hour.
After the procedure, treated veins tend to fade within a few weeks to a month. Compression stockings or bandages may need to be worn for a week or two to maintain pressure on the treated veins.
The number of treatments needed varies depending on the severity of the veins. Some people are satisfied with the results after one treatment, while others may need multiple treatments.
Possible side effects include bruising, raised red areas, small skin sores, and darkened skin in the form of lines or spots. These side effects usually go away within a few days to weeks.
Sclerotherapy has a high success rate, with approximately 50 to 80 percent of injected veins being eliminated with each session.
While sclerotherapy is commonly used for cosmetic purposes, it can also improve related symptoms such as aching, swelling, burning, and night cramps.
Most people with varicose or spider veins are candidates for sclerotherapy, but a consultation with a qualified healthcare professional is the first step to determine if this treatment is right for you.
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