Sclerotherapy

While not everyone develops spider veins, they can be a major issue for those who do. Spider veins are a condition where capillaries near the surface of the skin become overly noticeable. While they are usually considered to be a purely cosmetic concern, they can sometimes cause pain to the sufferer. Sclerotherapy has demonstrated efficacy in reducing spider veins. While a person’s medical history plays a role in their ability to be healed, Sclerotherapy is still effective in most cases.

What is Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy utilizes a special solution to cause spider veins to dissipate. It is a totally hypoallergenic formula that is safe for most patients. It works by making the veins collapse, resulting in the body reabsorbing the vein into the bloodstream. It is administered by way of a ‘microinjection’. Patients may require as many as 30 injections, depending on the severity of their condition.

Following the injections, the treated area is then wrapped with a compression bandage to keep pressure on the area. The spider veins and varicose veins will then slowly dissipate over the course of a few days. While some patients may want to apply the remarkable results of Sclerotherapy to other parts of the body, it is only designed to treat the legs. While it is fit for use on the legs, the chemical compound used in this treatment can cause unwanted reactions when applied to the face and other areas.

What are the Benefits of Sclerotherapy?

As a non-invasive procedure, Sclerotherapy is a preferable solution for its shorter downtime and cheaper price.

Some other benefits include:

Minimal Pain

Unlike other procedures that are designed to treat spider veins, Sclerotherapy has little to no pain at all. While patients usually feel a burning sensation at the treatment site while the injections are administered, this usually dissipates in a matter of seconds. In some cases, patients may experience soreness and muscle inflammation, but these will also pass quickly. As there is minimal pain, the procedure is typically performed without anesthesia.

Perceivable Changes

Another major benefit of undergoing Sclerotherapy is that the results show up almost immediately. Patients only have to wait for one to two weeks to see a noticeable difference in the treated areas. That said, patients should bear in mind that the results will also depend on the patient’s overall health, skin type, and other factors.

Permanent Results

Sclerotherapy works by permanently dissolving spider veins, causing them to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body. Patients who undergo the procedure can rest assured that their spider veins will not reappear. Nonetheless, patients should beware that having a genetic proclivity for developing spider veins may mean that they will develop them again.

Little downtime

One of the biggest pros of choosing Sclerotherapy is that patients can get back to their regular schedules in no time. Patients will have to wear compression bandages for a period of time, but they are a minor inconvenience that helps expedite the recovery process.

Sclerotherapy is one of the safest and healthiest treatment options that patients can choose when it comes to addressing spider and varicose veins.

What is the Procedure Like?

Treatment sessions for Sclerotherapy are performed in the doctor’s office and last anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes. There is no anesthesia and minimal pain. After the skin is fully disinfected, the formula is injected into the targeted area with a fine needle. The doctor will then use ultrasound imaging to help ensure thorough treatment.

The number of injections administered in a session will ultimately depend on the extent of the veins. Once the treatment is completed, cotton balls will be applied to the injection sites.

Woman with nice legs wearing white converse sitting on a car

What Is The Recovery Process Like?

Patients can get home shortly after the treatment is finished and can get back to their regular routines almost immediately. Patients should avoid strenuous activities for about 7 to 10 days. Compression bandages will need to be kept on for a few days for added support. There may be some bruising and swelling, but these effects will gradually fade away over the course of a few days.

The results from Sclerotherapy are usually fully visible after 3 to 6 weeks when all signs of bruising and swelling have completely dissipated. Approximately 80 percent of damaged veins can be eliminated with a Sclerotherapy treatment session. Patients can preserve their results long-term by staying active and eating healthy.

Why Choose Dr. Garramone?

Dr. Garramone has been providing the Fort Myers community with innovative cosmetic treatments for over 20 years. He treats all of his patients with the same level of care and respects that he gives to members of his own family. Dr. Garramone strives to achieve his patient’s goals, always ensuring that they leave his office looking and feeling their best.

Reach out to us today to schedule a private consultation and learn more about Sclerotherapy.