Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to treat varicose veins and spider veins. Varicose veins are large, swollen, and twisted veins that often appear on the legs, while spider veins are smaller, thinner veins that usually appear on the face or legs.
Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution into the affected vein, which causes it to collapse and eventually fade away. This article will discuss everything you need to know about sclerotherapy, including the benefits, risks, and recovery process.
Why Sclerotherapy is Performed
For many people, visible veins can be a source of emotional distress and self-consciousness. The appearance of bulging, twisted, or discolored veins can make individuals feel embarrassed or ashamed of their bodies, leading to low self-esteem and a negative self-image. This can affect their relationships, social interactions, and overall quality of life. Some people may avoid certain clothing or activities that reveal their veins, limiting their ability to participate in everyday activities and events.
Furthermore, individuals who suffer from chronic venous insufficiency, varicose veins, or spider veins may experience physical discomfort or pain, which can further exacerbate the emotional toll of visible veins.
These conditions can cause a range of symptoms, including leg cramps, itching, burning, and swelling. By seeking treatment for their visible veins, individuals can not only improve the appearance of their skin but also alleviate physical discomfort and improve their overall health and well-being. In some cases, removing visible veins can also be a preventive measure to avoid more serious venous problems in the future.
The Types of Veins Removed
Not all types of visible veins are treatable with sclerotherapy. These veins are most likely to have a positive treatment outcome using sclerotherapy alone:
Spider Veins
Spider veins are a milder form of venous disease that affects up to 80% of women. They are caused by the dilation of small blood vessels near the skin’s surface and can appear as red, blue, or purple veins on the face or legs.
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are a common condition that affects up to 35% of the population, especially women. They are caused by weak or damaged valves in the veins, which allow blood to flow backward and pool in the veins. This can cause the veins to stretch, swell, and become twisted.
Venous Malformations
It is also used to treat venous malformations in the head, neck, and face, a condition in which the veins do not develop properly and can cause pain, swelling, and other complications.
Sclerotherapy is often recommended as the first line of treatment for varicose veins and spider veins. It is a safe and effective alternative to surgery, which can be expensive and require a longer recovery period.
How Sclerotherapy Works
Sclerotherapy can treat small visible veins. It is most effective for treating small to medium-sized varicose veins and spider veins. Sclerotherapy is not typically used to treat large varicose veins or hemorrhoids.
During sclerotherapy, a solution is injected directly into the affected vein using a small needle. The solution irritates the lining of the vein, causing it to swell and stick together. Over time, the vein turns into scar tissue and fades away.
The procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes and can be performed in a doctor’s office. Most patients can return to normal activities immediately after the procedure, although they may need to wear compression stockings or bandages for a few days to help reduce swelling and improve circulation.
Sclerotherapy is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can go home the same day. Most patients require multiple treatments to achieve the desired results, with each treatment spaced several weeks apart.
The Benefits of Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy offers several benefits over other treatments for varicose veins and spider veins.
First, it is minimally invasive and requires no general anesthesia or incisions, which means less pain, scarring, and downtime. Second, it is highly effective and can eliminate up to 80% of treated veins. Third, it is relatively inexpensive and may be covered by insurance if the removal is a medical necessity.
Other benefits of sclerotherapy include:
- Improved appearance: Sclerotherapy can improve the appearance of varicose veins and spider veins, which can be unsightly and embarrassing. This can boost a person’s confidence and self-esteem.
- Improved circulation: By eliminating diseased veins, sclerotherapy can improve blood flow and reduce the risk of complications such as blood clots, ulcers, and deep vein thrombosis.
- Relief of symptoms: Sclerotherapy can relieve symptoms such as pain, swelling, cramping, and heaviness associated with varicose veins and spider veins.
The Risks of Sclerotherapy
Like any medical procedure, sclerotherapy carries some risks and potential side effects. These can include:
- Allergic reactions: Some patients may be allergic to the sclerosing solution, which can
- Bruising: Bruising and discoloration can occur at the injection site and can last for several days or weeks.
- Pain and discomfort: Patients may experience pain, cramping, or aching in the treated area, especially in the first few days after the procedure.
- Skin irritation: Some patients may experience skin irritation, including redness, itching, or burning, at the injection site.
- Blood clots: Although rare, blood clots can occur in the treated vein, which can be serious and require medical attention.
It’s important to discuss the risks and benefits of sclerotherapy with your doctor before undergoing the procedure. Your doctor can evaluate your condition, medical history, and overall health to determine if sclerotherapy is the right treatment for you.
Preparing for Sclerotherapy
Before undergoing sclerotherapy, your doctor will perform a physical exam and may order imaging tests to evaluate the extent and severity of your vein condition. You may be asked to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, for several days before the procedure.
On the day of the procedure, you should wear loose, comfortable clothing and avoid wearing tight stockings or pants. You should also avoid applying lotion or moisturizer to the affected area before the procedure.
During the Procedure
During sclerotherapy, you will lie on your back with your legs elevated. Your doctor will clean the injection site and use a small needle to inject the sclerosing solution directly into the affected vein. You may feel a mild burning or stinging sensation during the injection.
After the injection, your doctor will apply pressure to the injection site to prevent bleeding and may massage the area to help distribute the solution. You may be asked to wear compression stockings or bandages to help reduce swelling and improve circulation.
After the Procedure
After the procedure, you can return to normal activities immediately, although you should avoid strenuous exercise and prolonged standing or sitting for several days. You may experience some mild pain, swelling, or bruising in the treated area, but these symptoms should resolve within a few days.
Your doctor may recommend follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and determine if additional treatments are needed. Most patients require two to six treatments to achieve the desired results.
Getting Sclerotherapy in Tennessee
Sclerotherapy is a safe and effective treatment for varicose veins, spider veins, and other venous conditions. It is a minimally invasive procedure that can eliminate unsightly veins and relieve pain, swelling, and cramping symptoms. While sclerotherapy carries some risks and potential side effects, these are generally mild and can be managed with proper care and follow-up. If you are considering sclerotherapy, talk to the Vein Centre to learn more about this procedure’s benefits and risks and determine if it is the right treatment for you.
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons. “Sclerotherapy.” (2021). https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/sclerotherapy
- Mayo Clinic. “Sclerotherapy.” (2021). https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/sclerotherapy/about/pac-20384692
- MedlinePlus. “Sclerotherapy.” (2021). https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007297.htm
- Society for Vascular Surgery. “Sclerotherapy.” (2021). https://vascular.org/patient-resources/vascular-treatments/sclerotherapy
American College of Phlebology. “Sclerotherapy.” (2017). https://www.phlebology.org/patient-resources/about-treatments/sclerotherapy
