Love Your Legs
Do I have Spider or Varicose Veins?
Spider veins are a small and unsighty cluster of red, blue, and purple veins that most commonly appear on the thighs, calves, and ankles. It is estimated that this common cosmetic nuissance affect at least half of the adult female population.
What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a technique used to treat both varicose veins and spider veins. Performed in the comfort of a physician’s office, a tiny needle is used to inject the veins with a chemical solution called Sotradecol (sodium tetradecylsufate) which pushes the blood out of the vein, causing the vein to close down, shrivel and disappear. The vein simply becomes scar tissue and is absorbed into the skin. Following the procedure, blood flow improves which results in better, healthier veins, and improved circulation. Patients’ legs feel better, and they realize a healthier, visible improvement in appearance.
Sclerotherapy is at present one of the most prevalent treatments for spider and varicose veins. It is considered the gold standard, far more superior than laser. This treatment consist of injecting a sclerosing agent (FDA approved sollution) in the vein through a tiny needle. Upon injection, the solution replaces the blood in the vein generating irritation and ultimately corrosion to the vessels walls. The body then starts a natural healing process and the veins begins to decompose, shrink, and eventually disappear.
This safe and quick procedure is performed in a medical office setting with:
Who is a Candidate?
After your first consultation, Dr. Merchant will determine if you are a candidate for this procedure. More commonly, women of any age may be good candidates for Sclerotherapy. In some women, spider veins may become noticeable very early on (in teen years). For others, the veins may not become obvious untill they reach their 40s. However, Sclerotherapy is just as effective for men who seek treatment as well.
What is the Treatment Like?
Dr. Merchant will examine and review the vessels in question. A treatment strategy for eradicating the problem vein will then be decided upon. Photographs will be taken to track the procedure success. The FDA approved solution is then injected into the target veins. Discomfort is minimal and no anesthesia is required. A typical Sclerotherapy session is relatively quick, lasting only about 30 to 45 minutes. Approximately one injection is administred for every inch of spider vein- (anywhere from 1 to 10 syringes of solution per treatment session). A cotton ball and compression tape is applied to each area of the leg as it is finished. Usually, spider veins treated with Sclerotherapy do not require support hose. However, the treatment of varicose veins does and the duration is determined by the doctor based upon your condition.
What to Expect From Sclerotherapy ?
Sclerotherapy can enhance your appearance, but it is unrealistic to believe that every affected vein will disappear completely as a result of the treatment. After each Sclerotherapy session the veins will appear lighter. Dr. Merchant usually recommends two or more sessions to achieve optimal results. Improvement will be gradual but noticeable. Many patients experience between 60% to 80% of the treated vessels becoming resolved. During your initial consultation, you will be advised as to the required number of treatments needed to achieve your desired results.
Although Sclerotherapy will obliterate the noticeable veins for good, it is important to remember that treatment will not prevent new spider veins from emerging in the future. As time passes, you may find that you need “touch-ups” or full treatments for new veins that surface. But even if you choose not to have further Sclerotherapy, your legs will look better than if you never had a treatment at all. Most of Dr.Merchant’s patients are very pleased with the difference Sclerotherapy makes.
Getting Back to Normal
Although you probably won’t want to wear any leg-baring fashions for about two weeks, your activity will not be significantly limited in any other way from Schlerotherapy treatment. You will be encouraged to walk. Prolonged sitting and standing should be avoided. No squatting, heavy weight lifting, and “pounding” type of exercise such as jogging. A two to four week healing interval must pass before you may have your second series of injections. After each treatment, you will notice further improvement of your legs’ appearance.
In order to extend your basic understanding of Sclerotherapy or if you have any concern, please feel free to send us an email or call our friendly office staff for further information.
Cancellation Policy: All appointments must be cancelled within 24 hours prior to scheduled appointment time as a courtesy to the doctor, staff, and other patients. Your compliance is greatly appreciated.
