Unsightly spider veins can ruin any good weather occasion! The embarrassment from spider veins while wearing shorts or a bathing suit can be gone with our newest service, Sclerotherapy.
What Are Spider Veins?
Spider veins are small, superficial veins that have become visible. They often form in groups of red, purple, or blue “webs” on the legs, and may also develop on the face. These veins become noticeable due to dilation, or widening, a problem that can occur when the valves along the length of veins do not close normally.
Who Is A Candidate For Sclerotherapy?
Most adults who are troubled by spider veins are good candidates for sclerotherapy. During a consultation visit, patients are asked about their medical history to ensure that they do not have an underlying condition that could create unnecessary risk. For example, people with clotting conditions may not be good candidates for sclerotherapy. In general, this vein treatment is considered safe and effective for the vast majority of patients.
Is Sclerotherapy Painful?
Sclerotherapy is performed using a very small needle. Patients may feel a slight pinching sensation as the needle enters the skin, but this is momentary with each injection. Because sclerotherapy affects the veins with a chemical reaction, patients might experience mild cramping or aching for a few minutes after their treatment is over.
How Can I Prepare For Sclerotherapy?
Before sclerotherapy appointments, there are a few things patients should do to improve their experience and also promote the best outcome. These include:
- Inform the doctor of all medications and supplements benign taken, including birth control or other hormone medications.
- Avoid medications that can thin the blood for at least 7 days. Examples include ibuprofen, aspirin, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol for 2 days prior to sclerotherapy.
- Purchase compression stockings before the day of the appointment. These may be applied immediately following the procedure.
- Shower and wash the treatment area using antibacterial soap the morning of the procedure. Do NOT shave or apply lotion or cream to the treatment area.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to the appointment.
Sclerotherapy Treatment
Our trained nurses will inject the individual veins with a special formula made specifically to rid legs of spider veins. The treatment lasts about 45 minutes to an hour and after one visit you can expect to see an average of 50% reduction in the appearance of spider veins.
Recovery From Sclerotherapy
We recommend wearing a light compression hosiery for the next three days, but no other modification in your schedule is necessary.
What Can I Expect From My Sclerotherapy Results?
Being smaller, spider veins fade more quickly than larger varicose veins. Patients can expect to begin seeing the effects of sclerotherapy within a few weeks of their treatment. The veins may fade significantly after 3 to 6 weeks. Sometimes, another round of injections may be necessary to clean up the area.
Are My Results Permanent?
Sclerotherapy closes the veins that are injected. The blood and vein tissue get absorbed by the body, and these veins do not come back. That said, spider veins are often a sign of venous insufficiency, which means that the valves in various veins are not closing properly. After sclerotherapy, new spider veins may develop in other areas of the leg or body.
How Can I Maintain My Results?
Venous insufficiency can occur for several reasons, including genetics and hormone changes. Inactivity is also a contributing factor. To decrease the chances of developing new spider veins or varicose veins, patients are encouraged to live an active lifestyle. Even a 30 to 45 minute walk several days a week can reduce the risk of spider veins. Additional actions that can help prevent the pooling of blood in the legs include:
- Move frequently throughout the day. Do not stand or sit for more than an hour at a time.
- When possible, sit with the legs elevated.
- Wear compression stockings, especially when standing for longer periods or walking.
- Manage weight. Obesity is a contributing factor to the development of spider veins and varicose veins.
Read what our patients are saying!
"I’m impressed with Dr. Krummens ability to explain in detail any procedure with assurance and professionalism. I would recommend her highly (actually I just told someone about her) She is personable And her staff has always been polite and pleasant to talk to."
Click here to read more reviews.
Schedule A Sclerotherapy Consultation Today!
To learn more about the Sclerotherapy procedure, or to determine whether you are a candidate, contact our Cincinnati office at 513.985.0850 to arrange a one-on-one appointment with Donna Krummen, M.D., F.A.C.S. You can also go to our contact page and fill out the email contact form, and our staff will help you set up your consult.
