Spider veins are those superficial red and purple webs that may develop on the ankles, knees, or other parts of the body. They are not large and ropy, like varicose veins, and they usually don’t cause uncomfortable symptoms, but they are problematic nonetheless. Spider veins can diminish your sense of confidence in your appearance, and that is reason enough to want them gone. Sclerotherapy is an excellent way to send spider veins packing.
What is Sclerotherapy?
This vein treatment has been around for decades. It is a minimally-invasive vein treatment that effectively targets superficial veins that are not working properly. The goal of this procedure is to close the veins in which blood is pooling. Closing the veins causes blood to safely redirect elsewhere. Closed veins can then be absorbed by the body. As this happens, they disappear.
The Sclerotherapy Procedure
Sclerotherapy treatments are performed in the office, where patients can lie down comfortably while we address affected veins. The leg is elevated during treatment to urge blood to slow out of the area while the doctor performs the procedure. Sclerotherapy involves injections into the visible veins. The substance that is injected irritates the lining of the treated veins, which makes them collapse inward. The entire procedure can take 30 minutes or less, depending on the number of veins treated.
No sedative anesthetic is used for sclerotherapy, so patients can drive home right after their procedure. Compression garments may be applied immediately to gently press veins closed and support the redirection of blood flow. Garments may need to be worn for one to three weeks.
Does Sclerotherapy Hurt?
No sedative anesthetic for sclerotherapy does not mean a local numbing medication may not be applied. This may be a topical cream or injections of lidocaine. In many cases, there is no need for anesthetic at all. The needle used to administer the sclerosing medication is very small and felt only on the skin. The veins do not have nerve endings so do not sense pain. As the sclerosing agent is absorbed, some patients notice a minor burning or cramping sensation that is mildly uncomfortable. Compression can help diminish these side effects.
Sclerotherapy is a quick and easy treatment that can help you love your legs again. To schedule a consultation in our Rancho Mirage office, call (760) 610-8990.
