Injection Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy can directly target visible veins to greatly improve or diminish their appearance. Large varicose veins and small spider veins can be bothersome and distract from your appearance. Now you can find relief with injectable sclerotherapy treatment.
What is Injection Sclerotherapy?
Injection sclerotherapy involves a solution that can be injected right into the veins. The solution causes swelling in the vein that then blocks the blood flow, redirecting it to deeper, nonvisible veins. The scarred vein is then reabsorbed and fades in a short period of time.
Who Should Consider Injection Sclerotherapy?
Those who are unhappy with the appearance of visible varicose veins or spider veins could benefit from injection sclerotherapy. Varicose veins are large, raised blood vessels, often appearing on the legs. Spider veins are thinner red or blue veins that can appear on the legs, chest, or face. If you are pregnant, you should not have injection sclerotherapy. Those with a history of blood clots might not be candidates for treatment and should talk with Dr. Richardson first.
What Happens During Injection Sclerotherapy?
During sclerotherapy, a very thin needle is used to slowly inject the solution into the veins. You might feel some discomfort and cramping at first, but this should go away in a few minutes. Dr. Richardson may then massage the area to disperse the solution. You can expect the procedure to take about 15 to 20 minutes with the number of injections depending on how many veins you have and their size.
Results and Recovery
You will be able to walk around right after your procedure and may be asked to wear compression stockings or bandages to help compress the veins. You might want someone to drive you home in case you are still experiencing any cramping, but most patients are able to drive themselves. You can return to all normal activity that same day but should avoid strenuous activity for two weeks. Temporary side effects include bruising, raised skin sores, and darkened skin at the injection sites.
For small veins, you can expect to see results as soon as three weeks after treatment. For larger veins, results can take three to four months. Once the veins have been treated they will not return, however, treatment does not ensure that new veins won’t form. A follow-up session might be required to achieve optimal results and fully treat larger veins.
To learn more about injection sclerotherapy or to find out if you are a candidate, contact our office today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Richardson.