Spider veins are like the little cousins of varicose veins; both conditions involve the enlargement of blood vessels, but spider veins are much smaller than varicose veins. Unfortunately, spider veins are still large enough to detract from one’s appearance. If your spider veins are bothering you, consider talking to a dermatologist about your treatment options. Your dermatologist may recommend sclerotherapy, which is an effective way to resolve the problem.
How It Works
Sclerotherapy is not a surgical procedure. It involves injecting a special solution into the affected veins to irritate the lining of the blood vessels. This causes the lining to become swollen and to stick together. Gradually, the damaged vein will fade away.
Who Can Have It
It’s important to disclose your full medical history to the dermatologist. If you’re currently pregnant, you’ll have to wait until after childbirth to have the procedure. If you have a history of blood clots or blood clotting diseases, these may affect whether you can receive the injections.
How You Can Prepare
Your dermatologist may ask that you temporarily discontinue using certain drugs or supplements. These include products that interfere with blood clotting, since clotting is an essential step in producing the desired results. Before your appointment, you may be asked to avoid applying lotion and other products to the area that will be treated.
What You Can Expect
Your appointment may last between 15 and 45 minutes. During your sclerotherapy session, the doctor will perform multiple injections with a fine needle to deliver the solution into the affected veins. Immediately afterward, the dermatologist will encourage you to get up and walk around for about 15 minutes. It may be necessary to have additional sclerotherapy sessions later. For at least two to three days after your treatment, you should wear graduated compression stockings continuously, followed by two to three weeks of daytime wear.
Sclerotherapy is just one of the many medical and cosmetic dermatology treatments you’ll find at Arlington Dermatology. Our dermatologists in Arlington Heights offer solutions for patients with psoriasis, rosacea, warts, melanoma, and all other dermatologic conditions. Call our office at [company-phone id=1] today to get started feeling and looking your best.
