Sclerotherapy is considered the gold standard for treating most varicose veins as well as unwanted, cosmetically unattractive spider and reticular veins. Reticular veins are smaller than varicose veins but larger than spider veins and appear flatter and less twisted. Approximately 20% of all adults will get varicose veins at some point in their lives, and while they are mostly a cosmetic issue, these ropy, bulging veins may also cause pain and discomfort.
The sclerotherapy procedure can not only improve how your legs look, but it can also help relieve the pain and swelling often associated with varicose, reticular, and spider veins. This minimally invasive, outpatient procedure can also help alleviate symptoms like:
- Areas on the legs that are painful, tender, or warm to the touch
- Unexplained tightness in the calves
- A heavy, tired, or restless feeling in the legs
- Pain while walking or standing still
- Skin discoloration (e.g., redness or flaky skin)
- Sores and ulcers
What is sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a safe, effective, minimally invasive medical procedure used to eliminate spider, reticular, and varicose veins. The number of sessions you’ll need depends on the size of the affected veins, but most clients require at least two to four treatment sessions. During the procedure, a special FDA-approved sclerosing solution is injected directly into the affected vein. This solution irritates the lining of the blood vessel, which causes it to collapse and become virtually unnoticeable on the surface of the skin. Once the affected vein is sealed off, the body will gradually absorb the sealed off vein and naturally redirect blood flow to healthier veins within the legs.
Sclerotherapy is an outpatient procedure that’s performed right in the Carolina Vein Specialists offices in as little as 15 minutes. However, the procedure may take longer for those with a large number or a severe case of varicose veins.
Sclerotherapy benefits include:
- Minimally invasive
- Short procedure
- No hospitalization
- No anesthesia
- Fast recovery
- Minimal pain
- No scarring
- Safe and effective for all ages
- May reduce or eliminate associated aches and pains
Is sclerotherapy right for you?
Sclerotherapy is recommended for most people who have small, uncomplicated spider veins (up to 1mm in diameter) and small, uncomplicated varicose veins (1-3mm in diameter). Talk to one of the experienced vein care specialists at Carolina Vein Specialists to find out if sclerotherapy treatment is right for you.
Sclerotherapy is not recommended for individuals who have history of allergies to sclerosing agents or are currently pregnant or breastfeeding.
Minimally invasive sclerotherapy treatment options
Here are the most common types of sclerotherapy procedures:
Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy
Vein care specialists use an ultrasound machine to locate and treat affected veins for this procedure. They use a fine-gauge needle to inject the sclerosing solution into the affected veins. It’s most effective for people with poor circulation because it redirects blood flow to healthier veins. Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy procedures typically take three sessions before patients see significant results.
Surface sclerotherapy
This alternative sclerotherapy procedure focuses on veins that are close to the surface of the skin and most noticeable. It’s like the ultrasound-guided treatment because it uses very fine needles to promote vein closure. However, it does not use ultrasound or other guidance methods.
Are you ready to eliminate unsightly spider veins and restore the natural beauty of your legs? Call Carolina Vein Specialists at 336-536-6522 to find out if sclerotherapy is right for you. Our vein care specialists offer high-quality spider vein treatment and are equipped to perform a variety of minimally invasive vein treatment options to help your legs look and feel their best.