What Causes Varicose and Spider Veins?
These abnormalities manifest themselves as twisted, swollen veins that most often appear in the legs. Women are far more susceptible to these conditions than men, and factors such as aging, pregnancy and obesity can put people more at risk.
Varicose veins appear to be twisted. Sometimes, they are the color of the skin, but they also may appear blue or red. Because they cause the skin to bulge, many people dislike the appearance of varicose veins, which are most likely to occur on the calves, thighs, inside the ankles or on the feet.
Typically smaller than varicose veins, spider veins are nearly always red and look similar to the branches of a tree or a spider web. Although they can be seen beneath the skin’s surface, they usually do not cause the skin to bulge. Spider veins are most frequently seen on face or the legs.
Both of these conditions may be caused by issues with the valves contained within the veins. These issues may prevent blood from its normal flow, causing the veins to enlarge and become more visible.
What Is Sclerotherapy?
Put simply, a doctor injects a solution, usually containing salt, into the problem vein. The solution causes the blood vessel to become irritated, which eventually makes it collapse. The blood clots, and the vessel will soon be scar tissue that cannot be seen from the exterior of the skin.
Usually, the salt solution is injected into the vein via an extremely fine needle. Some patients may experience mild discomfort and perhaps some cramping for the first few minutes. These sensations may be especially apparent when larger veins are being treated. Altogether, the entire procedure generally requires between 15 minutes and half an hour.
The doctor usually can treat more than one vein in a session, depending upon the size and location of the veins.
How Do I Prepare for Sclerotherapy?
Your doctor will ask you a series of questions about any prescription medications that you take, including supplements, that may affect you during the procedure or while you recover. Be certain to disclose any allergies you may have, especially if they pertain to anesthetics. Your doctor may advise to stop taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin or blood thinners prior to your treatment.
It also is possible that you will be asked not to take iron supplements and to report any recent illnesses or chronic medical conditions from which you suffer. Before you have the treatment, don’t put any lotion or other topical treatments on your legs, and be certain that you have someone to drive you home after having sclerotherapy.
Does Sclerotherapy Hurt?
Most people do not experience any pain associated with sclerotherapy. Slight cramping sensations in the first moment or two of treatment is the most common complaint. After the procedure, the doctor may recommend that you wear wraps or support hosiery to help compress the treated vessels.
Some side effects may occur after the treatment. It is possible for your larger varicose veins that receive this treatment to harden or become lumpy for a few months before the condition finally resolves itself. A few patients will experience red, raised areas at the injection sites, but these usually disappear after several days. Sometimes, brown spots or lines may appear on the skin at injection sites. These usually fade within three to six months, but about five percent of patients may discover that these are permanent. Similarly, slight bruises may appear at injection sites, but they typically fade after a few days.
When Will I See the Results of Sclerotherapy?
Spider veins, because they are smaller, generally respond to sclerotherapy in about three to six weeks. When larger varicose veins are treated, it can take three or four months for complete results. Veins that respond well to the treatment do not become recurring problems. However, new veins can become issues, and sclerotherapy can be performed on these veins as well.
The Benefits of Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is not a new procedure. In fact, it has been used and trusted by doctors since the 1930s. It is a simple, straightforward and minimally invasive procedure that requires little downtime. Most doctors ask that patients refrain from aerobic activity for a few days and wear compression socks or wraps after having the procedure.
Sclerotherapy can be used for cosmetic purposes, but it also can make life much more comfortable for people who suffer from night cramps, burning sensations, swelling and aching associated with spider veins and varicose veins.
Are You a Candidate for Sclerotherapy?
You’ll have a complete consultation with a physician before you undergo sclerotherapy. This gives the doctor a chance to determine whether or not you are a good candidate for the procedure.
Note that women who are pregnant are not eligible for sclerotherapy, nor are women who take birth control pills. Patients who have suffered from a past blood clot will be evaluated on an individual basis as to the suitability of the procedure.
It also is possible that a vein that could be sued for heart bypass surgery in the future will not be treated with sclerotherapy.
Contact Seduction Med Spa Today
You can make the most of your time in the sun, wearing shorts and skirts, after undergoing sclerotherapy. Most people are good candidates for this procedure, and you’ll be amazed at the boost of self-confidence you get when your legs are smooth and gorgeous.
With no real downtime involved, this convenient procedure usually can be performed in under an hour, and most patients return to most of their daily activities immediately afterward.
Call Seduction Med Spa today at (786) 706-5087 to schedule a Miami sclerotherapy appointment with one of our trusted and highly skilled doctors.