What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is an injectable treatment that uses a special solution to shrink and eliminate unwanted spider veins in the legs. This treatment is incredibly common and the best alternative to laser vein ablation. As a non-surgical treatment, this injection-based therapy works with your body’s immune and lymphatic system to restore the smooth appearance of your legs.
Spider veins are generally a benign condition that cause the veins in your legs to be more visible. Spider veins look like web-like lines just beneath the surface of your skin and can become more noticeable over time. Some conditions such as pregnancy, anemia, or certain medications may contribute to the development of these superficial vein concerns.
Where Can This Treatment Be Used?
Sclerotherapy treatment is typically used on the lower legs around the calves or thighs where most spider veins are formed. The procedure usually takes about an hour and you can see immediate results after just one treatment. It’s important to mention all veins you would like to treat during your consultation. At Revive Wellness we often combine different treatments for the best results. In the case of spider veins, we may discuss combining our Neo laser along with Sclerotherapy to treat your spider veins. So make an appointment today for your personalized consultation.
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Overall, this treatment is very simple. Most appointments will take less than an hour to complete. The injections themselves will be very fast and comfortable. If you have anxiety about needles, then comfort options can be explored.
Most people will need at least two treatments per leg, particularly for very developed or large spider vein concerns. Your specific concerns may need additional treatments to achieve your desired aesthetic goals. During your treatment, the solution used on your affected veins may cause a tingling sensation, which will fade when the injections are complete.
Because this treatment involves a minimally invasive technique, you may receive specific instructions about medications and supplements to avoid before your treatment. You may also be advised to avoid tobacco and alcohol products for at least 24 hours before your treatment.
The most important thing you can do to prepare for your treatment is to avoid applying lotion, oils, or other fragranced products to your legs. You should also not shave before your treatment. Ideally, you should wear loose, comfortable clothing for your treatment appointments.
While it’s encouraged that you remain lightly active following your treatment, you should avoid any strenuous activities, high-impact workouts, and other taxing activities. During the first week after your appointment, activities like yoga and walking are the most appropriate.
You will need to avoid other activities during your recovery period, including hot showers, hot baths, hot tubs, saunas, tanning beds, and hot compresses. Staying cool is key to your recovery. You should also be sure to wear any compression leggings or socks as directed to encourage faster healing; if you are wearing compression socks, you should not elevate your legs.
How quickly you will be able to see your results will ultimately depend on the severity of your vein concerns. Those who have mild varicose or spider veins can see significant improvements in three to six weeks, while those who have larger or more severe veins may need up to three or four months to see results.
This therapy works by using a solution to irritate the walls of the affected vein. Over time, this irritation will cause the vein wall to collapse; at this point, your body’s immune system will work to absorb the collapsed vein and divert blood flow to a healthy nearby vein. This is why the size of the vein makes such a difference in how soon you will be able to see the results of your treatment.
In general, any vein treated with this therapy will produce long-lasting or even permanent results. In other words, a vein that is treated will go away forever. However, it’s also true that new veins may develop over time, so you may need another treatment several years down the line for new varicose or spider veins.
The best way to maintain the results of your treatment is to adopt healthier lifestyle habits that will prevent the formation of new superficial vein concerns. Maintaining a healthy weight, getting enough exercise, and drinking water are all keys. If you can, not sitting or standing for prolonged periods without movement can also be beneficial to prevent spider veins in the future.
The best candidates for sclerotherapy include those who have mild to moderate spider veins on the legs. The only way to assess whether or not you are an ideal candidate for this treatment is to attend a consultation appointment. People with certain health concerns, including women who are pregnant, are not usually good candidates for this treatment.
Dark or twisted veins on the legs can make anyone feel self-conscious about the appearance of their legs. Unfortunately, there isn’t much that can be done at home to reduce the appearance of these superficial vein concerns. However, a treatment like sclerotherapy can easily and painlessly eliminate unwanted visible veins so your legs can be smooth and even-toned again. Most healthy people with no major health concerns or allergies are good candidates for this treatment.