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Cosmetic surgeons have recognized that millions of women are bothered by spider veins and it is estimated that at least half of the adult female population is plagued with this common aesthetic problem.
Why do spider veins occur?
Spider veins are formed when veins become dilated and swollen with stagnant blood. These thread-like dilated blood vessels are often seen on the face and the legs. These veins are located just below the surface of the skin and due to their location, often appear darker and more prominent, being red, blue or purple in color. These blood vessels may be short, unconnected lines each about the size of a large hair or connected in a matted, "sunburst" pattern. They may also look like a spider web or a tree with branches. The tendency to form spider veins tends to be hereditary and is also often seen in people who stand for long hours, like teachers. Pregnancy and hormonal variations may stimulate their appearance. During pregnancy the enlarged uterus can restrict blood flow out of the legs putting pressure on the veins. Spider veins can occur after trauma, and may be associated with obesity.
What is sclerotherapy?
Injections of medications into these veins are known as sclerotherapy. Sclerotherapy has been a successful method of treating both spider veins as well as varicose veins since the 1600s. The medicines used in sclerotherapy act upon the inner lining of the vein walls to gradually cause them to seal shut and stop the flow of blood through them. This method of treatment of treatment may be employed to treat the large ropey varicose veins and the smaller spider veins as well. Today, sclerotherapy is, without question, the most popular method employed by vascular specialists worldwide, to help eliminate unwanted veins. It is minimally invasive and very effective. As specialists in sclerotherapy we use very small needles and state of the art sclerosants resulting in minimal discomfort. No anesthetic is required.
What can I expect from the treatment?
The tiniest spider veins may disappear quickly while other spider veins may fade slowly over 4 to 6 weeks. Following treatment, the veins may look darker in color with some bruising. Some blood may become trapped in the veins as they close down, this is expected and is addressed during your subsequent treatment sessions. Your first two treatments are the most important. The larger veins require a few weeks to improve their appearance. A level of 70-80% overall improvement is realistic. Normal healing can take approximately 8 weeks. Each treatment session is about 20 minutes. Sessions are normally scheduled 2 to 4 weeks apart
What is the aftercare?
All patients are instructed to walk a great deal in the days following each treatment. This helps to re-route the blood through the deeper healthier veins. You can go right back to work, and your normal routine following treatment. You may drive yourself to your appointments
