Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical procedure to treat varicose veins and spider veins. Generally, it is performed as an in-office injectable procedure that involves little to no downtime. Once you successfully undergo this medical procedure, your discomfort in the legs will be eliminated and your skin appearance will be enhanced, thereby improving your quality of life.
Suitable candidates for sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is recommended for all those who are concerned with the appearance of the unsightly spider or varicose veins around their leg area. It is especially helpful for women who want to wear shorts or skirts confidently, but are self-conscious due to the visible veins. Typically, both spider and varicose veins are red, blue, or purple colored and can be conspicuously noticed on the skin’s surface. This treatment is particularly beneficial for the working individuals and busy mothers who want their unsightly veins to be treated without downtime or the risk of further complications (which may occur if surgery is involved). Sclerotherapy would help them gain freedom from these undesirable veins without the need for invasive surgery.Procedure for sclerotherapy
In sclerotherapy, a medicated saline solution is administered directly in the diseased veins. This is done after precisely calculating the extent of the underlying veins. Once the solution is injected inside the blood vessel, it will irritate the inner lining. This irritation is an indication of the blood vessel swelling. Subsequently, the swollen vessel will lead to a blockage of blood flow in the targeted vein. Over time, the treated vein will disintegrate as a result of clotting. The natural metabolism will aid in re-routing the blood flow to the surrounding healthy veins, while the dead vein is absorbed into the bloodstream. Once this process is completed, the patient will have a smooth and clean skin around the treated area.Facts about sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is one of the safest and medically proven procedures for treating spider veins and mild varicose veins. Some of the important facts about sclerotherapy are:- Sclerotherapy can treat both uncomplicated spider veins and varicose veins.
- Depending on the severity of the problem, patients would need two or more treatment sessions.
- A single treatment lasts from 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- The treatment sessions are spaced one to two weeks apart.
- Results from sclerotherapy are on par (better, at times) when compared to laser vein removal.