Is Sclerotherapy Right For Me?

Spider veins are a common cosmetic issue. These unsightly red, purple, and blue vessels can form when veins aren’t able to perform efficiently, resulting in a twisted appearance that’s visible beneath the skin. For some, spider veins are merely a cosmetic nuisance – especially when combined with reticular veins, also known as feeder veins. For others, spider veins and reticular veins can cause physical discomfort.

Either way, if you’re fed up with your spider veins, sclerotherapy can help. We’re proud to offer this minimally invasive procedure to treat uncomplicated reticular with spider vein treatment in Springfield Missouri. Find out if you’re a good candidate for sclerotherapy.

What Is Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that treats uncomplicated spider veins and reticular veins. During a sclerotherapy treatment, we’ll inject a sclerosing agent into the affected veins. That sclerosing agent creates an inflammatory response in the vein, damaging the inner wall and causing it to collapse in on itself. The process might sound intense, but it’s perfectly safe, resulting in the regeneration of healthy tissue.

Am I a Good Candidate For Sclerotherapy?

First, you’ll want to assess the kinds of veins you’re dealing with. Spider veins are easily confused with varicose veins, which are typically larger and further away from the surface of the skin. Spider veins usually look like either a thin red line, tree branches or spider webs. Reticular veins, or “feeder” veins, are the blue and green veins beneath the surface of the skin.

If you have spider or reticular veins caused by heredity, age, obesity or other factors, you’re probably a great candidate. However, if you have certain health conditions (like a history of blood clots or cardiovascular disease) you aren’t a good candidate for a sclerotherapy procedure. Additionally, if you struggle with severe or bulging varicose veins, you likely won’t be a good candidate for sclerotherapy. The best way to find out if you’re a good candidate? Give us a call at 417-883-5400 and come in for a consultation.

What Should I Expect During a Sclerotherapy Treatment?

A typical session lasts between 15 and 45 minutes. We’ll start by cleansing the treatment area. Then, we’ll use a very fine needle to inject the sclerosing agent into the affected veins. After we administer the sclerosing agent, the agent will begin to damage the inside lining of the vein, causing it to collapse in on itself. The vein will then close and begin to fade over the course of several weeks.

Is Sclerotherapy Painful?

We can apply a topical numbing agent prior to your sclerotherapy session, but it’s not necessary as this process is quick and mostly painless. Some people might experience a cramping or burning sensation immediately after injection, but the overall process is very minimally invasive.

What Should I Expect After Sclerotherapy Treatment?

You can get back to your life immediately after sclerotherapy treatment. To help speed your results, we usually recommend that you wear compression stockings for up to a week after treatment. Depending on the severity of your vessels, you should expect to see them fade over the course of several weeks, although some veins may take up to 12 weeks to disappear. Make sure to avoid heavy exercise and hot baths in the days following your treatment. You’ll also want to avoid long flights, car rides, and heavy sun exposure.

If you’re finally ready to deal with your spider veins once and for all, sclerotherapy might be for you. If you want to learn more about sclerotherapy in Springfield Missouri, come pay us a visit at Advanced Laser Clinic. Call us at 417-883-5400 to set up an appointment. We look forward to meeting you!