SCLEROTHERAPY

SCLEROTHERAPY

Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure to treat unwanted spider veins, telangiectasis, and small varicose veins. Spider veins are the fine, red, blue or purple veins close to the skin surface. Although not painful, spider veins can blemish the appearance of your legs. These dilated blood vessels often form sunburst-like patterns. While some have the appearance of a spider web, others may resemble a tree with branches. Depending on factors such as lifestyle, health issues and physical appearance, spider veins will look different on everyone.

  • An FDA approved medication is injected into the spider veins with a fine needle, causing them to collapse over time. Damaged veins are absorbed naturally by the body and will fade.

  • Active deep vein thrombosis or superficial vein thrombosis (blood clot), pregnancy or less than 3 months postpartum, breastfeeding.

    If you’ve had a blood clot in the past, you may be able to have sclerotherapy, depending on what caused the clot and how serious it was.

    • Your treatment plan is customized for your specific needs. Every patient’s condition is unique. Some patients may require more than one session, and each session can consist of multiple injections.

    • Patients can resume normal activities immediately following the procedure. A surgical support stocking will be required for a few days after your treatment (please bring).

    • We ask that you avoid direct sun exposure for four to six weeks to minimize pigment changes to your skin.

    • Improvements can be noticed, on average, six to eight weeks after treatment. We typically schedule a follow-up appointment four weeks after the procedure.

    • Side effects are nearly non-existent, with the exception of minor bruising and pigmentation at the injection sites coupled with slight itching. Bruising typically disappears within one to two weeks. Although pigmentation almost always fades, it may take several months.

    • Do not apply lotions, creams or bath oils to the legs before the procedure.

    • If possible, please avoid aspirin, ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatory medications for 48 to 72 hours to lessen bruising and pigment changes to your skin.

    • Arnica pellets are recommended for use before and after treatment. Arnica gel can be applied topically. Our staff members are ready to provide full instructions.