Sclerotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for treating spider and varicose veins. Sclerotherapy is effective and recommended to patients for spider vein treatment. However, if your doctor has suggested the treatment, there are a few things you would want to know about Sclerotherapy.
- Sclerotherapy has very few side effects.
Sclerotherapy is a standard FDA-approved treatment with minor and temporary side effects. Severe side effects are rare. However, the patient can experience a bit of discomfort in the treatment area since the chemicals in the sclerotherapy procedure irritate the veins. After the procedure, patients may also experience bruises, rashes, or redness in the treatment area. You should expect these side effects to disappear in a few days following your treatment. In rare cases, patients can see discoloration of the skin, which may take up to a few weeks or months to disappear. In case you experience this, ensure to let your doctor know.
- A series of sclerotherapy may be needed.
Each patient has a different case. Some patients can expect their spider veins to disappear with the first treatment, but patients with larger size and area would need multiple series of treatment. Your doctor will usually schedule each session two weeks apart. It is essential to understand that sclerotherapy results may not be permanent but typically last long. Furthermore, if you take multiple sclerotherapy sessions, it can take up to 2-3 months for the results to be visible.
- Sclerotherapy takes less than 20 minutes.
Sclerotherapy, unlike other treatments, is quick and usually takes anywhere between 10-15 minutes. Once you make an appointment and visit your doctor’s clinic, you will be asked to lay down. The doctor will numb the area and apply to inject the medicated microfoam with your legs elevated. It does not need anesthesia, and the patient can see the procedure as they back. In many cases, it has been observed that patients can instantly see some veins disappearing. However, complete results can take a few weeks. During the procedure, you will feel a tiny pinch, similar to any other injections you take.
- The recovery time is shorter.
Following your treatment, you do not need to spend time resting or recovering. Patients can go to their work on the same day. Your doctor will ask you to wear compression stockings as they will put a slight pressure on your veins to prevent veins from forming again. Additionally, you should avoid sun exposure and walk throughout your day to avoid blot clots. You should be able to perform all your activities without the treatment intervening in your life.
