Sclerotherapy: A Proven Treatment for Varicose Veins & Spider Veins

If you’ve ever been self-conscious about visible veins on your legs or other parts of your body, you’re not alone. Varicose veins and spider veins are common concerns that affect millions of people. Fortunately, experts at Clevens Face and Body Specialists offer sclerotherapy, an effective and minimally invasive solution. This tried-and-true procedure has been helping people improve the appearance of their skin and their comfort levels for decades. If you’re considering sclerotherapy, this guide will help you understand what it is, how it works, who the ideal candidates are, and the many benefits it offers.

What Is Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure designed to treat varicose veins and spider veins. Our specialists inject a solution, typically a salt solution, directly into the affected vein. This solution irritates the lining of the blood vessel, causing it to collapse and eventually be reabsorbed by the body. The vein then fades from view over time, leaving behind clearer, smoother skin.

First used in the 1930s, sclerotherapy has evolved significantly over the years. Modern techniques and solutions at Clevens Face and Body Specialists have made the procedure more effective and safer, with minimal discomfort and downtime. It is an office-based procedure that does not require anesthesia, meaning you can go home the same day and resume most of your daily activities quickly.

How Does Sclerotherapy Work?

The sclerotherapy process is straightforward. The treatment begins with the identification of the target veins. Our sclerotherapy specialist will have you stand or sit in a position that makes your veins more visible. Once the veins are identified, the area will be cleaned and prepared for injection.

The sclerosing solution is then injected by our trained sclerotherapy expert into the vein using a fine needle. The number of injections depends on the size and number of veins being treated. The solution works by irritating the blood vessel lining, causing it to swell, stick together, and eventually seal shut. Blood flow is redirected to healthier veins, and over time, the treated vein is reabsorbed by the body and fades away.

The procedure itself usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the number and size of veins being treated. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure, often describing it as a mild stinging or burning sensation at the injection site.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is an excellent option for many people, but like any medical procedure, it’s not suitable for everyone. Ideal candidates for sclerotherapy include individuals with:

• Spider veins: These are small, thin veins that lie close to the surface of the skin and are often red, blue, or purple in color. They are most commonly found on the legs or face.
• Varicose veins: These are larger, twisted veins that can be seen just under the surface of the skin. They can cause discomfort, swelling, and a feeling of heaviness in the legs.
• Good overall health: Candidates should generally be in good health with no significant underlying conditions that could complicate the procedure or healing process.
• Non-pregnant and non-breastfeeding individuals: Sclerotherapy is typically not recommended for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

It's essential to have realistic expectations and to understand that while sclerotherapy is highly effective for many patients, it may not completely eliminate all veins, and multiple sessions might be necessary for optimal results.

Benefits of Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy offers numerous benefits that make it a popular choice for treating varicose and spider veins:

1. Improved Appearance: The most immediate and noticeable benefit of sclerotherapy is the improved appearance of your skin. Treated veins gradually fade over weeks to months, leading to smoother, clearer skin.
2. Increased Comfort: For those with varicose veins that cause pain, swelling, or a heavy feeling in the legs, sclerotherapy can significantly reduce or eliminate these symptoms. This can lead to improved mobility and a better quality of life.
3. Quick and Convenient: Sclerotherapy is an outpatient procedure that typically takes less than an hour to complete. There's no need for anesthesia, and you can return to your regular activities almost immediately, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules.
4. Minimally Invasive: Unlike surgical options for vein removal, sclerotherapy is minimally invasive. The procedure involves only small injections, reducing the risks associated with surgery and leading to a faster recovery time.
5. Long-Lasting Results: While new veins can form over time, the results of sclerotherapy are long-lasting. Many patients enjoy clear, vein-free skin for years after their treatment.
6. Boost in Confidence: Many patients report a significant boost in confidence after sclerotherapy. Being able to wear shorts, skirts, or swimsuits without worrying about visible veins can be incredibly liberating.

What to Expect After Sclerotherapy

After the procedure, you may experience mild redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection sites. These side effects are typically mild and subside within a few days. We may recommend wearing compression stockings for a few weeks after the treatment to support the healing process and improve results.

It’s also important to avoid strenuous exercise, hot baths, and prolonged sun exposure for a short period after the procedure to minimize the risk of complications and ensure the best possible outcome.

Performed by experts at Clevens Face and Body Specialists, sclerotherapy is a safe, effective, and convenient solution for those looking to improve the appearance of varicose and spider veins. With minimal discomfort, quick recovery, and long-lasting results, it’s no wonder so many patients choose this treatment to regain their confidence and comfort.

If you’re considering sclerotherapy, schedule your consultation today to determine if it’s the right option for you. With the right care and guidance, you can look forward to smoother, healthier-looking skin in no time.

Look good, feel good. Discover a healthier, happier you! 

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