SCLEROTHERAPY

WHAT IS SCLEROTHERAPY?

Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution directly into the spider vein that causes it to scar and collapse, forcing blood to reroute through healthier veins. The collapsed vein is reabsorbed into local tissue and eventually fades.

WHY CHOOSE SCLEROTHERAPY FOR SPIDER VEINS?

Sclerotherapy is the treatment of choice for spider leg veins. This quick treatment is minimally invasive. The procedure can improve related symptoms such as aching, swelling, burning and night cramps. Treated veins tend to fade within a few weeks, although occasionally it may take up to two months to see the full results. In some instances, several sclerotherapy treatments may be needed. The providers at Delle Chiaie Cosmetic Medicine will devise a plan at your initial visit.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING THE PROCEDURE?

The procedure is performed in the office and requires no downtime. It does not require anesthesia and usually takes 15 minutes to an hour to complete depending on the extent of the veins and the number. Some clients experience minor stinging or cramps when the needle is inserted. The injection solution irritates the lining of the vein, causing it to swell shut and block the flow of blood.

Once the needle is withdrawn, the provider will apply compression to the area to keep blood out of the injected vessel and disperse the solution. For large veins, a compression pad may be taped onto the site to keep the area compressed while your doctor moves on to the next vein. The number of injections depends on the number and size of veins being treated.

WHAT ARE THE POTENTIAL RISKS?

As with any treatment, there are risks associated with it, though they are minimized in the hands of a qualified provider.

These include:

• Bruising
• Raised red areas
• Small skin sores
• Darkened skin in the form of lines or spots
• Multiple tiny red blood vessels

More severe complications rarely occur, including inflammation, blood clots, allergic, reaction to treatment solutions and side effects caused by tiny air bubbles in the bloodstream, including nausea, headaches, coughing and visual disturbances.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

The average cost for sclerotherapy varies by the size and number of veins treated. Since spider vein sclerotherapy is usually considered a cosmetic procedure, cost of treatment is not covered by most medical insurance companies.

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR THE PROCEDURE?

Before the procedure, we will review your medical history and conduct a physical exam. This is the time for us to discuss expectations, potential risks and outcomes of the procedure. We will examine your veins and check for any underlying blood vessel disorders.

Be sure to let us know:

• If you are pregnant. It is recommend to wait until after your delivery to perform the procedure.
• If you have any medical conditions, such as heart disease or a pre-existing cancer or coagulation disorder.
• About any prescription or over-the-counter medicine you are taking as well as any supplements.
• If you smoke or take oral contraceptives, which can increase your risk of blood clots.
• If you have any allergies.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER THE PROCEDURE?

You can stand up and walk around immediately after the procedure. It’s important to move your legs to prevent the formation of blood clots and maximize treatment results. Graduated compression stockings and or bandages are worn over the treatment area for one to three weeks to maintain pressure on the treated veins.

Most clients can return to normal activities immediately following the procedure. You should avoid sun exposure in the treatment area for two weeks following the procedure.

BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS