What is sclerotherapy?
It’s a relatively simple, quick procedure that has been used to treat spider veins since the 1930s. That’s right—we have been dealing with these pesky little vascular webs for nearly 90 years! During sclerotherapy, a healthcare provider injects medication directly into the vein which causes it to eventually disappear. It might sound like magic but trust us, it works! The best part? Results are usually fully visible within 1-3 weeks and there is no significant downtime. So why suffer from those unsightly spider veins any longer? Get back your smooth legs today with sclerotherapy!
What are spider veins?
Spider veins are small, thin blood vessels that typically appear on the legs and face. They’re similar to varicose veins but much smaller in size. Spider veins form when valves inside the veins fail to close properly, causing blood to back up and create a visible web-like pattern.
Spider veins can be a real eyesore, making people feel self-conscious about their appearance. These cosmetic nuisances look like thin lines, webs and branches – sometimes even resembling tree roots or small twigs! While they are usually harmless to your wellbeing, people may want to treat them purely cosmetically.
What causes spider veins?
Spider veins can be caused by a variety of factors including genetics, pregnancy, weight gain, hormone therapy and prolonged standing or sitting. They’re more common in women than men because of the hormonal changes associated with their menstrual cycle.
How does sclerotherapy treat spider veins :
Asclera or Polidocanol (the sclerotherapy solution) is a type of irritant that causes the spider veins to become inflamed and form clots. This triggers an inflammatory response which leads to scarring, ultimately causing the vein walls to collapse. As the vein walls collapse, blood flow ceases and the unsightly veins are no more! The body then reabsorbs these collapsed veins with time. Depending on how extensive your spider veins are you may need multiple treatments for optimal results.
Sclerotherapy is considered safe, relatively non-invasive, and provides dramatic results in a short amount of time.
But before you jump in headfirst, keep in mind that not everyone is an ideal candidate for this type of treatment. Those who are pregnant or nursing, have a history of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis) or have certain skin conditions such as psoriasis should consult with their doctor before undergoing sclerotherapy.
Sclerotherapy is not intended for larger varicose vein treatment, as larger veins need a more aggressive approach as surgical excision.
Benefits of Sclerotherapy Treatment for Spider Veins:
- Quick and efficient treatment with minimal discomfort
- Results are usually visible within 1-3 weeks
- No downtime required
- Long-lasting results
- Safe, non-invasive technique that is relatively affordable
What to Expect During a Sclerotherapy Treatment
At your appointment, your healthcare provider will:
- Clean the area to be treated with an antiseptic solution
- Map out any visible veins that need treatment
- Inject a sclerosing solution directly into the veins using a very fine needle.
- Massage the affected area after injections to help disperse the sclerosant evenly through the vein.
- Apply pressure to help reduce discomfort and avoid bruising.
After your treatment is finished you may experience minor side effects such as redness, swelling, or tightness in the injected area. These effects usually resolve within a few days but if they persist then it’s best to see your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
After sclerotherapy instructions include avoiding hot baths and wearing compression stockings for 2 weeks after treatment.
Reasons to seek sclerotherapy treatment for Spider Veins:
If you’re looking for an effective, quick, and long-lasting way to get rid of those pesky spider veins then sclerotherapy treatment is the answer! It’s a safe, non-invasive procedure that should provide you with dramatic results in as little as 1-3 weeks. Plus there’s no downtime required so you can get back to your normal activities immediately.
Sclerotherapy for spider veins isn’t just about getting rid of unsightly veins; it’s about regaining confidence in yourself and feeling comfortable in your own skin. Put your best foot forward and say goodbye to spider veins today with sclerotherapy!
