Sclerotherapy
If you have small, unsightly spider or varicose veins, sclerotherapy may be the treatment for you. Sclerotherapy safely and effectively minimizes the appearance of undesirable veins.
Why sclerotherapy?
- Excellent results. Sclerotherapy is considered the best treatment for removing spider and some varicose leg veins.
- Safety. At MeritCare Dermatology, you can rest assured you're receiving high-quality care delivered by trained medical professionals. Led by board-certified dermatologists, our team regards your health and safety as the top priority.
How does it work?
A concentrated saline or specially developed chemical solution is injected with a very small needle into the spider or varicose vein. The solution causes the vein to close up or collapse and become scar tissue that is absorbed by the body becoming barely noticeable or invisible. The work of carrying the blood is shifted to other healthy blood vessels nearby.
Sclerotherapy generally requires multiple treatment sessions. One to three injections are usually required to effectively treat any vein. While the same area should not be retreated for four to six weeks to allow for complete healing, other areas may undergo treatment during this time.
Post-treatment therapy includes wearing bandages and support hose for two days to three weeks following treatment. Walking and moderate exercise may also help speed recovery. Most patients can expect a 50 percent to 90 percent improvement.
Sclerotherapy can be performed quicker, with less cost and normally with less pain than laser therapy. Typically, several sessions over a period of a few months are necessary and follow-up care involves the use of compression stockings for at least two weeks after treatment.
MeritCare Dermatology also offers laser techniques for treating spider and leg veins. Ask your dermatologist for more information about this option during your inital consultation.
Is sclerotherapy right for me?
Before treatment begins, a consultation takes place with MeritCare Dermatology to help ensure you will be happy with your results. Few risk are associated with sclerotherapy*. The professionals at MeritCare Dermatology will advise you.
Sounds expensive – is it?
MeritCare Dermatology offers competitive pricing with satisfying results. And there's another aspect that's priceless: the peace of mind that comes with knowing your treatment is performed at a place you trust by trained medical professionals who have your best interest in mind.
Sclerotherapy may take more than one treatment for satisfying results. The professionals at MeritCare Dermatology will determine how many treatments you will need during your initial consultation.
Payment is required prior to starting treatment. Cosmetic procedures are typically not covered by insurance, but it's worth checking with your insurance company to make sure.
*Most patients report few, if any minor side effects. Temporary reactions can include a slight swelling of the leg or foot, minor bruising, itching, redness and moderate soreness.