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• ​​​Sclerotherapy​
  

Treatment for Spider and Reticular Veins

Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution directly into the vein that causes it to scar and collapse, forcing blood to reroute through healthier veins.  The vollapsed vein is reabsorbed into local tissue and eventually fades.

Causes of Spider & Reticular Veins

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A number of factors predispose a person. These include:

• Heredity
  
• Obesity
  
• Old age 
  
• Sun exposure
  
• Leg injury
  
• Occupations that involve a ot of standingc
  
• Hormonal influences of pregnancy, puberty, and menopause
  
• Birth control pills 
  
• History of blood clots
  

Why Choose Sclerotherapy for Spider Veins

Sclerotherapy is considered the treatment of choice for spider leg veins.  The treatment is minimally invasive.  The procedure also can improve related symptoms such as aching, swelling, burning and night cramps.  Treated veins tend to fade within a few weeks, although occasionally it may take up to two months to see full results.  In some instances, several treatments may be needed.

What you should Know About Sclerotherapy

• The procedure is performed in the office by our board certified doctor.  It does not require anesthesia and usually takes 15 minutes to an hour to complete depending on the extent of the veins.
  
• Patients usually lie down with their legs slightly elevated.  After the treatment area is clensed with alcohol, the doctor uses a fine needle to slowly insert the solution into the vein.  Some patients experience minor stinging or cramps when the needle is inserted.  Once the needle is withdrawn, the doctor will apply compression and massage the area to keep the blood out of the injected vessel and disperse the solution.  For large veins, a compression pad maybe taped onto the site to keep the area compressed while the doctor moves on to the next vein.  The number or injections depends on the number and size of veins being treated.

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Possible Risks

As with any treatment, there are risks associated with it, though they are minimized in the hands of our board certified doctor.

These include:

• ​Bruising
  
• ​Raised Red Areas
  
• Small Skin Sores
  
• Darkened Skin in the Form of the Lines or Spots
  
• Multiple Tiny Red Blood Vessels
  

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More severe complications rarely occur, including inflammation, blood clot, allergic reaction to treatment solutions and side effects caused by tiny air bubbles in the blood stream incuding nausea, headaches, coughing and visual disturbances.

Cost

The average cost for sclerotherapy varies by the size and number of veins treated.  Spider and reticular treatment, whether with sclerotherapy or vascular laser is considered cosmetic in nature and the cost regardless of the technique used, is not covered by insurance plans.

How to Prepare for the Procedure

Before the procedure, the doctor will review your medical history and conduct a physical exam.  Be sure to let the doctor know about any prescription or over-the-counter medicine you are taking as well as any supplements.

• We do recommend to stop taking aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as (Advil, Motrin, and Naproxen), iron supplements or blood thinners a week prior to the procedure. 
  
• ​Do not apply any lotion to your legs vefore and after the procedure.
  
• If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or bedridden, the doctor will not perform the procedure.
  
• If you have any medical conditions, such as heart disease or preexisting cancer or coagulation disorder.​
  
• If you smoke or take oral contraceptives, which can increase your risk of blood clots.
  
• If you have any allergies.​​
  

​​​ What to Expect After to Procedure

• You can stand up and walk around immediately after the procedure for 30 minutes and daily for next few days.  It's important to move your legs to prevent the formation of blood clots and maximize results.
• Graduated compression stockings are worn over the treatment area for one to three weeks.
• Most people can return to normal activities immediately following the procedure.
• You should avoid sun exposure in the treatment area for two weeks following the procedure.
• You should also avoid hot baths, hot compresses, whirlpool or saunas.
  
• Showers are permitted, but the water should be cooler than usual.  
• The injection sites may be washed with a mild soap and tepid water.
  
• You should avoid long plane flights or traveling with cars, at least for 3 days after procedure.
  
• You should also avoid heavy exercises for 3 days following treatment.
  

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