SCLEROTHERAPY

Sclerotherapy is used to treat unwanted large and small varicose veins and spider veins. Spider veins are dilated small blood vessels that have a pink, red, or purple color, and appear mostly on the legs. Vein problems are primarily inherited and tend to become more of a problem with time. Large dilated vessels are called varicose veins, and these may protrude and cause symptoms such as aching, burning, and swelling. Treatment involves injections of a sclerosing agent into the abnormal blood vessel with a fine needle. The solution irritates the inner lining of the vessel, causing the walls to swell and the vein to cease functioning. The patient does not feel this happening, nor is the solution uncomfortable. All that is experienced is a slight needle prick. Over a period of weeks to months, the vessel is absorbed by the body.

This procedure has been used for treatment of veins for many years. It is still considered the gold standard of practice, producing the safest, most efficient results.

A single blood vessel may need to be injected more than once, several weeks apart. In any one treatment session, multiple veins may be treated.

Compression is often used after the veins are treated. We offer a variety of post-sclerotherapy compression knee high socks as well as the higher compression thigh high for after the EVLT, our laser closure procedure.

After several treatments, most patients may experience a 50% to 90% improvement in the appearance of their legs. All skin colors respond equally well. However, the fading of the veins is gradual. Maintaining the clearance achieved by touch up treatment as needed in order to keep your legs looking their best.

QUESTIONS OUR PATIENTS ASK US:

Is the procedure painful?

Our patients feel slight “pricks” of a very fine needle, but our sclerotherapy solution is entirely painless. Most of our patients tolerate the treatments extremely well.

Are there any restrictions after treatment?

We tell our patients to avoid high impact exercise for about a week, as well as heavy weight lifting. Also, there should be minimal exposure to the sun over the treated veins within the first 2 weeks in order to obtain the best results.

What happens to the vein to make it disappear?

Our sclerotherapy solution causes slight irritation to the inner lining of the vein. This makes the vein stop functioning, blocking blood flow. Blood flow is diverted to healthy veins. The abnormal vein is then absorbed by the body over time.

Is this a cure for my vein problem?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for this inherited condition, but we can control its effects. Sclerotherapy allows us to clear the areas on your legs and then keep them clear. Because we can grow superficial veins continuously, this treatment offers the ability to maintain your appearance. Additional treatments are done as needed to keep your legs looking their best.

Home | Meet the Doctors | Services | FAQs | Directions