What is Sclerotherapy?
Many people suffer from unwanted veins. It has been estimated that up to 50% of the population suffer from varicose veins at some point in their lives. Sclerotherapy is the treatment of these veins by injecting a sclerosant or irritant solution into them. This treatment has been widely used for over 150 years.
What causes these unwanted veins?
Related factors include genetic predisposition, pregnancy, prolonged standing, previous injury or bruising, obesity and hormones.
How is sclerotherapy performed?
The skin is cleaned with an antiseptic. Using a fine needle, a small amount of sclerosant solution is injected into the vein. The lining of the vein wall is irritated by the solution. After treatment, the patient wears compression or elastic stockings. These ensure that the walls of the vessel are pressed together causing the vessel to sclerose or close up. Over time, the vein will either shrink or disappear completely.
Can all unwanted veins be treated?
Sclerotherapy is ideal for smaller unwanted veins or spider veins usually on the legs. Larger veins may be better treated by surgical stripping. Intense pulsed light or laser based treatments may be more suited for fine veins especially those above the legs. Your doctor will discuss the various treatment options with you.
It is uncommon to have complete disappearance of all unwanted veins. About 70 to 80% of veins respond well.
Is the treatment painful?
Most patients experience the treatment as uncomfortable rather than painful.
How many treatments are required?
Some veins respond well to one treatment, although the response may not be evident for a few months. Other veins may require multiple treatments over a prolonged period of time.
Are there any side effects?
Common side effects include temporary redness, swelling and discomfort at the injection site. This may last for a few hours. Occasionally bruising may occur but should disappear within 2 weeks. Infrequently, the skin may stain or become pigmented. Fortunately, this usually fades over time.
What should I do after treatment?
For 7 to 10 days or as directed, wear the elastic compression stockings, avoid strenuous exercise but walk every day for at least 30 to 40 minutes.
Is this treatment suitable for everyone?
Sclerotherapy should be avoided in people who:
- Have thrombophilia (increased tendency to blood clotting)
- Are unable to walk or wear stockings after treatment
- Are pregnant or breast feeding
- Have an allergy to sclerosants
- Have arterial disease or peripheral vascular disease
- Have multiple risk factors for developing clots such as a family history of clotting disorders, the oral contraceptive pill, obesity, smoking and long periods of immobility
- Are planning travel by aeroplane in the next 7 to 14 days
Is it Expensive?
Costs are based on the area being treated and the desired outcome, and is difficult to provide an accurate quote unless we actually see the area. Therefore, we suggest you book in for a free consultation with one of our consultants who can explain the procedure in more detail and provide you with a price for a treatment plan.
Leg Veins and Sclerotherapy
