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What is Sclerotherapy?
Are there side effects?
How does Sclerotherapy work?
When do the blood vessels disappear?
How do the veins form?
Can they be prevented?
How often can I be treated?
How should I dress for the procedure?
How much does it cost?
Are there any other treatments?
Are there any special instructions after the procedure?
What is Sclerotherapy? (back to top)
It is a technique in which a schlerosing solution is injected into small vessels of the skin. We use Sotradechol or Aethoxysklerol, which are one of the safest and most effective solutions used for treating superficial spider veins. It is widely used here in the United States and in Europe.
Salt water (23.4% hypertonic saline) and other sclerosing chemicals are available, but have a higher incidence of side effects
Are there side effects? (back to top)
Small blisters: may occur if tiny amounts of fluid leak out of blood vessels. These blisters heal quickly, but a small brown freckle like are of pigmentation may remain.
Bruises: can result when the walls of blood vessels are weak and can last from 2 weeks to 3 months. There may also be itching which can last 24 to 48 hours.
Swelling: can occur around the treated blood vessels. This is a response to the solution and a good sign of effective treatment. There may also be itching which in these areas which can last from 24 to 48 hours.
Pigmentation: can sometimes develop which is a darkening of the skin along the course of a treated vessel. Pigmentation, which is iron (hemoglobin) from the dissolved blood gradually, fades, but a small amount may remain permanent.
Slight Stinging: including sensations of warmth can be felt as the schlerosing solution is injected and some patients may feel a sensation of faintness or dizziness.
Redness: may develop and persist for several days at the injection sites.
Muscle cramps: may develop around injection sites. They last for 3 to 15 minutes and resolve with gentle massage.
Clot: may develop at the injection site, particularly when large blue veins are injected; healing is quicker if this small clot is removed within a week of the procedure.
Small Permanent Scar: rarely occurs at the site of the injections; however, small brown freckles are not unusual at the injection sites
Superficial vein inflammation (phlebitis) may occur. Individuals with a history of phlebitis should not have their veins schlerosed. However these individuals may consider other treatment options. Dr. Moy will be happy to discuss these concerns with you.
Rare cases of pulmonary embolism (blood clot to lungs) have been reported. This has usually occurred with large amounts of sclerosing solution. Ulceration at injection sites is a rare occurrence.
How does Sclerotherapy work? (back to top)
The sclerosing solution dries out the small cells which line the inner walls of blood vessels. A large number of veins within a given area may improve with a single injection.
When do the blood vessels disappear? (back to top)
Fading of the blood vessels continues for 1 to 6 months. It is important to recognize that Sclerotherapy does not prevent new sunburst veins, and recurrences can occur over 1 to 5 years.
How do the veins form? (back to top)
No one is certain, but they tend to be more common in some families. Mechanical trauma to the skin and long periods of standing may also play a role.
Can they be prevented? (back to top)
There are no proven preventative measures. Some physicians feel that support hose or graduated pressure stocking may be helpful. Weight reduction and exercise are also reported to be helpful.
How often can I be treated? (back to top)
Some areas can be retreated in 30 days. New sites can be injected every week. The number of times Sclerotherapy has to be performed varies with the number of areas that have to be injected and their response to each injection. The number of injections required also depends on how much improvement is desired by you.
How should I dress for the procedure? (back to top)
Wear brief shorts under comfortable clothing.
How much does it cost? (back to top)
Cost is related to the number of vessels injected and the amount of time required. Longer sessions and larger problem areas with cost more. The average session costs approximately $200-$250.
Are there any other treatments? (back to top)
Ambulatory phlebectomy is a procedure performed under local anesthesia where larger varicose veins are removed. Our combination laser works well on the smaller veins (sunburst veins). Sunburst veins of the lower extremities are unattractive and embarrassing to many people. The treatment and eradication by Sclerotherapy is simple, safe and effective.
Are there any special instructions after the procedure? (back to top)
Pressure dressing: recommended for the first 24 hours.
Support stockings: recommended for larger vessels, the importance of support stockings is in debate; their long-term use may prevent formation of other small veins.
Strenuous activity and standing for long periods of time should be avoided for the first 24 hours.
If support stockings are recommended for your use, you should purchase dressings and stockings before your procedure
Thousands of people are delighted with the results they are getting from this treatment. Our Sclerotherapy treatment is simple, safe and effective treatment for Spider Veins. Please feel free to discuss any aspect of this treatment with us.
Dr.Moy has helped many Los Angeles spider veins patients over the past 25 years to enhance their appearance through sclerotherapy treatments
Disclaimer: This site contains information for general purposes only. Moy Dermatology offices can answer only very general questions over the phone or via email. We cannot offer any medical advice or any type of medical evaluation via email or by phone. Please call or email to schedule a professional consultation at one of our offices. Thank you.
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