Spider veins, commonly referred to as spider veins, are a very common condition where small, red or blue twisting veins can be seen through the skin. There are various reasons why spider veins may form including heredity, age, strain on your body, medications, and more. In fact, it’s estimated that about 30% - 60% of adults develop spider veins.
Sclerotherapy is a widely used non-surgical procedure that is designed to eliminates spider veins. Often used as an alternative to surgery, sclerotherapy can reduce or eliminate spider veins in one to six treatments, depending upon the extent of the problem and patient compliance following the procedure. It has been estimated that as many as 50%-80% of treated veins may be eliminated with each session of sclerotherapy.
How Does Sclerotherapy Work?
This specialized treatment should always be performed by a trained dermatologist such as our experienced doctors, Dr. Allen. Before treatment begins, your doctor will have an initial consultation with you to ensure that Sclerlotherapy is the best treatment option for you.
Using an ultra-fine needle, a salt solution will be injected directly into the targeted vein. This salt solution irritates the lining of the blood vessels and causes the blood to clot. When the blood has clotted, it will eventually turn into scarred tissue and naturally fade away. Patients may experience mild discomfort and cramping for a couple of minutes as the solution is being injected. Each session of the procedure usually takes between 15-30 minutes.
What Can I Expect After Treatment?
Patients can resume normal daily activities immediately following the procedure. Walking is actually encouraged. While Tylenol can be taken if needed, it is important to avoid taking aspirin, ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatory medications for at least 48 hours following treatment. Patients should also avoid taking hot baths, applying hot compresses or being in direct sunlight for at least 48 hours after treatment in order to prevent any complications.
There are certain side effects that patients may experience following sclerotherapy, including itching and raised, red areas around the injection site, which should subside within a few days. If you have any questions or concerns about the side effects of the treatment, please contact us and we’ll be more than happy to help you!
Make Your Appointment With Us Today!
If you want to get rid of your spider veins, just contact Allen Dermatology and schedule your appointment with us. Beyond sclerotherapy, we also offer a wide range of other dermatology services so you can get that boost in self-esteem you need to feel confident in your body! We want to hear that you’re wearing those shorts and capris with confidence again! Just give us a call at 478-477-6700 or fill out our simple online appointment request form.
