Understanding Sclerotherapy: A Comprehensive Guide to Vein Treatment

 

Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure that has gained popularity as an effective treatment for various vascular issues, particularly spider veins and varicose veins.

This minimally invasive procedure has become a go-to option for individuals seeking to improve the appearance of their legs and alleviate discomfort associated with venous conditions. 

The cost is $400 per injection. Most individuals will need 3 sessions. One session for each leg and one for a top up.

What is Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a medical intervention designed to treat small to medium-sized veins that appear close to the skin’s surface.

It involves the injection of a sclerosing agent, typically a liquid or foam solution, directly into the targeted veins. The sclerosing solution is a TGA approved prescirption only medication. The goal is to irritate the inner lining of the blood vessels, causing them to collapse and eventually fade away. Blood vessel collapse is seen immediately at the time of sclerotherapy. Fading away can take 6 – 12 weeks.

The Procedure

  1. Consultation: Before undergoing sclerotherapy, individuals typically have a consultation with Dr Peter Kim to assess their suitability for the procedure. The doctor will discuss the patient’s medical history, perform a physical examination, and may request imaging tests to evaluate the veins’ condition.

  2. Preparation: Sclerotherapy is an outpatient procedure that does not require anesthesia. Patients are usually advised to wear loose-fitting clothing. We prefer if you can wear a short or bring a short with you so that the legs are exposed for sclerotherapy. If you already have a compression stockings, please bring it in with you on the day of the sclerotherapy.

  3. Injection: During the procedure, the patient is positioned comfortably, and the skin over the targeted veins is cleaned. The sclerosing solution is then injected using a fine needle directly into the veins.

  4. Compression: After the injection, compression stockings or bandages are applied to the treated area to compress the veins and promote blood flow. Patients are often instructed to wear compression garments for a specified period following the procedure to enhance the treatment’s effectiveness.

Benefits of Sclerotherapy

  1. Cosmetic Improvement: Sclerotherapy is widely recognized for its cosmetic benefits, effectively diminishing the appearance of spider veins and varicose veins, leading to smoother, more attractive skin.

  2. Symptom Relief: Beyond its cosmetic advantages, sclerotherapy can also provide relief from symptoms associated with venous issues, such as aching, swelling, and discomfort.

  3. Minimally Invasive: As a minimally invasive procedure, sclerotherapy generally involves minimal pain and a short recovery period compared to traditional surgical interventions.

  4. Outpatient Procedure: The outpatient nature of sclerotherapy allows individuals to return to their normal activities immediately after the treatment.

Potential Side Effects

While sclerotherapy is generally considered safe, there are some potential side effects, including:

  1. Temporary Discoloration: The injected veins may temporarily darken before fading away.

  2. Bruising: Some patients may experience bruising at the injection site, but this typically resolves over time.

  3. Allergic Reactions: Although rare, allergic reactions to the sclerosing agent can occur.

  4. Blood Clots: In extremely rare cases, blood clots may form.

  5. Skin Ulcers : In rare cases, skin ulcers may form.

Sclerotherapy is a versatile and effective treatment option for individuals seeking to address cosmetic concerns or alleviate symptoms associated with spider veins and varicose veins. As with any medical procedure, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the most suitable treatment plan based on individual circumstances.

With its proven track record and minimal invasiveness, sclerotherapy continues to be a popular choice for those looking to enhance both the appearance and health of their legs.

What if Spider Veins Are Too Small for Injections?

Sometimes, spider veins are so tiny that it’s impossible to insert a needle and inject the sclerosant. In such cases, we turn to laser treatment to remove these delicate veins, especially on the legs.

Laser therapy is a safe and effective alternative for targeting and eliminating those tiny spider veins. Check out the demonstration below to see how it works!