Sclerotherapy
Many people have small but enlarged veins, most commonly found on the thighs, around the knees, on the calves and on the ankles, which they consider unattractive. This condition is called telangiectasias but they are also known as spider or varicose veins, broken capillaries or sunburst vessels. These veins do not actually serve a purpose, so vein removal can be performed without posing a health problem.
How is Sclerotherapy Done?
The treatment consists of repeated injections of a solution which irritates the vessel linings, causing small, inconsequential clots. With the blood flow stopped, the blood vessels will eventually disappear. This procedure is generally performed on the lower extremities. The solution is usually injected two or three times over a period of several weeks to months.
The enlarged blood vessels will generally begin to disappear within several weeks, but may take up to several months. The removal process may need to be repeated, depending on the degree of severity. Most cosmetic surgeons remove primarily spider veins which may be red, pink, violet or blue in color. Varicose veins are pencil diameter or larger and may be treated by a general surgeon or vascular surgeon.
This as an office procedure, usually requiring 20 minutes or longer per session. Generally, no more than one to two areas are treated at a time, several visits may be necessary to treat large areas.
After Effects?
Most patients experience minimal pain during treatment. Any discomfort is usually related to the irritation caused by the substance injected, but this will subside. Following the procedure, pressure may be applied to the injected area for 24 to 36 hours. Rest is not generally necessary, in fact, daily walking for at least 20 minutes is strongly encouraged and normal activity may be resumed.
What Are the Risks?
Most patients are extremely pleased with the results and complications are unusual. However, complications may include ulceration of the skin that may heal with scar formation, reddish blotches -- most will disappear in six to 12 months, pigmentation or discoloration and formation of new spider veins or sunburst blemishes. There are risks in any surgical procedure. You should discuss all of the risks and benefits with your cosmetic surgeon.
What is the Cost?
Your cosmetic surgeon and staff will discuss financial arrangements with you prior to your treatments. In cases where there is need for physical rather than cosmetic improvement, insurance may cover part or all of the cost.
This page is only intended as an introduction to this procedure. It should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed and should not be construed to guarantee the result.
For more information or a free consultation,
please contact us at (800) 375-0134 or at (405) 691-3111
(Provided by the AACS) |
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