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SCLEROTHERAPY
Spider veins are small superficial blood vessels that appear red or blue in your skin and may occur on your face, legs or other areas of the body. Spiders veins may make you feel self-conscious, or they may even cause you pain, ranging from dull and throbbing to a burning sensation. If your spider veins are bothersome or you feel they are unsightly, you now have the option of a specialized treatment, “sclerotherapy,” now offered at The Skin Group,
Sclerotherapy uses a very fine needle to inject a special solution into bothersome blood vessels. Once injected, the solution will destroy a spider vein by irritating the lining of the vessel causing it to swell, stick together, and the blood to clot. Over a period of weeks, the vessel turns into scar tissue that fades, eventually becoming unnoticeable. Results range from complete disappearance of the spider vein to diminished size. There is about an 80-90 percent chance for a greatly improved appearance. The type of solution used will depend on several factors, such as the size of the vessel. A number of vessels can be injected in one treatment session. Several treatments may be required to achieve maximum results.
Frequently Asked Questions: |
Q: Is sclerotherapy painful? |
A: Because a needle is used to inject the solution, a slight stinging at the site of the injection may occur. |
Q: How many treatments should I undergo? |
A: Depending on the size, a single blood vessel may have to be injected more than once, sometimes weeks or months apart. A number of vessels can be injected in any one-treatment session. |
Q: Can sclerotherapy be used on all skin types? |
A: Yes. All skin types and skin colors respond well. |
Q: What are the side effects to sclerotherapy? |
A:
- stinging or pain at the sites of injection
- swelling of the ankles or feet; muscle cramps
- hive like reactions (usually go away within 10 – 15 minutes after injection)
- red raised areas at injection sites (similar to hives, usually disappear within 1-2 days)
- brown lines or spots on the skin at the sites of treated vessels (occur most often with larger veins, usually disappear within a year, but can last longer)
- temporary bruising
- inflammation of treated blood vessels, common and can be treated with medications such as aspirin, compression, antibiotics, or heat
- lumps injected vessels are common and not dangerous
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Q: What if I have an allergic reaction? |
A: Allergic reactions to sclerosing solutions are uncommon, but treatable. You should contact your dermatologist immediately if you suspect an allergic reaction. |
Q: Will treated veins recur? |
A: Large veins may recur even after surgical procedures. Spider veins may also recur. It may seem that a previously injected vessel has recurred when, in fact, a new spider vein has appeared in the same area. |
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