We live in South Florida where shorts and skirts have our legs on constant display, but some of us choose to cover them up because of unsightly spider veins. Those clusters of red, blue or purple veins show up on thighs, calves and ankles and can cause you to be self-conscious.
Sclerotherapy eliminates spider veins using sclerosing, a solution that’s injected directly into the veins causing them to collapse and fade from view. Sclerotherapy also gets rid of the annoying and painful symptoms associated with spider veins such as aching, burning, swelling and cramping.
Women get spider veins due to:
- Weight gain
- Shifts in hormone levels
- Medication
- Prolonged sitting
- Prolonged standing
- Pregnancy
- Heredity
A series of treatments may be required to achieve the desired results depending on the amount and darkness of your veins.
Sclerotherapy will not prevent future spider veins from appearing and may not get rid of the existing ones completely. It is important to openly discuss your expectations with your doctor so you know what to expect and are not disappointed with the results.
Although risks are very rare, they include:
- Blood clots in the veins
- Allergic reactions to the solution
- Inflammation
- Permanent scarring
- Pigmentation irregularity
- Appearance of blood vessels
So what actually happens?
The procedure is performed in our office using the latest technology and our state-of-the-art equipment. Sclerotherapy is relatively simple. The entire procedure takes 15-45 minutes. One injection is administered for every inch of vein. Patients may experience a mild burning sensation upon each injection. There is no recovery time, you’ll be free to leave the office immediately after.
What about after the procedure?
Following the procedure you will be free to return home. Leg cramps are a typical side effect and may last for a couple days. Your doctor may require you to wear support hose after the procedure depending on how many injections are necessary.
