SCLEROTHERAPY
Sclerotherapy involves injecting a sclerosing solution directly to the enlarged veins. The solution collapses the veins rerouting the blood flow to healthier veins and improving the appearance of the veins on the legs. This procedure treats spider veins and small varicose veins about 5-8mm in diameter in size.
Sclerotherapy does not require anesthesia and any special preparation. One can immediately receive the treatment after consultation. It is important to discuss with your surgeon any medical condition and allergies you have.
Each Treatment session takes 15-30minutes. The length of each session is depending on the number of veins to be treated. Patients will be treated on supine, prone or standing position depending on the location of the veins to be treated. Patient may feel a slight to no pain, burning and tingling sensation. One must understand that Sclerotherapy is a process. It is not a one-time treatment. Most patients would require more treatment with a 3-month interval.
After the treatment, the affected leg will be wrapped firmly with an elastic bandage. You must keep this on for at least 24 hours. You will be prescribed medications specifically to prevent infection. Walking is encouraged. You may resume to your daily activities immediately but you should expect slight discomfort and bruising on the first two weeks.Wearing of compression stockings is highly recommended to prevent and/or minimize the swelling and bruising.
Changing of colors of the treated veins into red or brown should be expected. This will lasts for 6-8months. To help minimize the appearance of the discoloration, one should wear SPF when exposing the skin to sunlight. Application of Creams like Anti-Melasma Creams is also helpful for the hyperpigmentation.
One should also expect a feeling of hardness (cord-like) on the treated veins for the first three months. This is due to the hardening of tissues as a results of inflammation and fibrosis.
Varicose vein and spider veins are not dangerous but it can be embarrassing and uncomfortable especially during summer season when you have to bare your legs. And since it is a progressive condition, it is better to destroy the veins early to prevent it from getting worse and looking worse.