Home >> Aesthetic Treatments >> Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy

Spider veins, or telangiectasias, are those tiny purple and red blood vessels found most commonly on the thighs or lower legs of women. They are hereditary and can form anywhere on the leg, from the top of the thigh to the ankle. Although spider veins carry blood, they are not part of the venous valve system. Your spider veins and varicose veins can be removed permanently through a simple office procedure called Sclerotherapy.

Procedure:
Prior to treatment, Dr. Sharma will review your complete medical history to determine how long you have had a problem with your veins, and the severity of the problem. He will perform a variety of tests to determine if the venous system is affected. If it is, surgery may be advised before Sclerotherapy is attempted. If the area to be treated can be saved, Sclerotherapy will be recommended.

A sclerosing solution is injected into the vein through a micro-needle. The tiny needle generally causes very little pain. Sclerosing solution displaces the blood within the vein. It then causes irritation to the lining of the vein, making it swell shut. The needle is withdrawn and pressure to the area is applied immediately. While each vein may require several injections, most disappear in two weeks to two months. Most Sclerotherapy patients report little if any discomfort. A few may experience a mild burning sensation when the doctor injects the solution, but it stops within a few seconds.

Recovery
You may be asked to wear special heavy-duty stockings to help keep pressure on the veins. This will reduce bruising and keep the treated veins closed. Bruises around the treated areas usually disappear after the first week.

You are encouraged to resume normal activities immediately, although vigorous activites should not be completed for the first 24 hours. Walking is important as it increases blood flow through the other veins. Most patients will experience a 60-80 percent improvement - final results may not be apparent for several months.