Sclerotherapy: Spider Vein Treatment That Works

Are you tired of those unsightly spider veins that seem to appear out of nowhere on your legs, making you self-conscious about wearing shorts or skirts? Spider veins, those small, red, blue, or purple veins that often appear on the legs, can be a frustrating cosmetic concern. Thankfully, there is a highly effective treatment option available – sclerotherapy.

At New York Vein Treatment, our vein doctors specialize in minimally invasive spider vein and varicose vein treatments, including sclerotherapy. Let’s explore everything you need to know about sclerotherapy, from how it works to what you can expect during and after the procedure.

Sclerotherapy is a proven and highly effective treatment for spider veins. It is a minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting a solution directly into the affected veins. The solution irritates the lining of the blood vessel, causing it to collapse and eventually fade away.

Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure that effectively treats spider veins and small varicose veins by inducing controlled damage to the affected blood vessels. A sclerosing solution, often containing a chemical compound like sodium tetradecyl sulfate or polidocanol, is injected directly into the veins. This solution irritates the vein’s inner lining, causing it to inflame and collapse. Over time, the damaged vein is absorbed by the body’s natural processes, rerouting blood flow through healthier veins. The treated vein gradually fades from view.

• Diagnosis: At New York Vein Treatment, we begin by diagnosing the root cause of your spider veins using duplex ultrasound. This allows us to identify any underlying issues, such as chronic venous insufficiency or larger veins that may be contributing to the problem.
• Personalized Treatment Plan: Once we have a clear understanding of your condition, our board-certified vein doctors will curate a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Sclerotherapy may be recommended as part of this plan.
• Procedure: During sclerotherapy, a fine needle is used to inject a sclerosing solution directly into the affected spider veins. The solution causes the vein to collapse and stick together, ultimately leading to its closure.
• Immediate Results: You may notice immediate results after the procedure, with the treated veins beginning to fade. However, multiple sessions may be required to achieve optimal results, depending on the extent of your spider veins.

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during sclerotherapy. You may feel a slight burning or stinging sensation at the injection site, but this discomfort is usually short-lived. Your vein doctor can discuss pain management options if you have concerns.

Sclerotherapy sessions are relatively quick, typically lasting 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the number of veins being treated. Multiple sessions may be required to achieve optimal results.

Common side effects of sclerotherapy include mild bruising, swelling, and temporary discomfort at the injection site. However, these side effects typically resolve on their own within a few days to weeks. Most patients can resume their regular activities immediately after the procedure.

You may notice immediate results after your first session, with the treated veins beginning to fade. However, it’s important to note that complete results may take several weeks to become apparent. Additional sessions may be necessary for the best outcome.

Sclerotherapy is primarily designed for small to medium-sized spider veins. For larger varicose veins, alternative treatments such as endovenous laser ablation or radiofrequency ablation may be recommended. Your vein doctor will assess your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment for you.

Sclerotherapy provides long-lasting results, and the treated veins are unlikely to reappear. However, it does not prevent the development of new spider veins, so maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing risk factors is essential for preventing future issues.

While sclerotherapy is considered safe, like any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications. These are rare and may include allergic reactions to the sclerosing solution, skin discoloration, or the formation of small blood clots. Your vein doctor will discuss these risks with you before the procedure.

Preparation for sclerotherapy may include wearing loose-fitting clothing on the day of the procedure and avoiding lotion application to the treatment area. It’s crucial to discuss your medications with your vein doctor, as certain medications may need to be adjusted.

Insurance coverage for sclerotherapy may vary depending on your individual insurance plan and the medical necessity of the procedure. At New York Vein Treatment, we offer free insurance verification to help you understand your coverage and make informed decisions.

At New York Vein Treatment, we have convenient locations in Midtown Manhattan and the Financial District to serve our patients. Our Midtown Manhattan location at 290 Madison Ave Suite 202 is within walking distance of iconic landmarks such as Grand Central Station and Penn Station. In the Financial District, you can find us at 156 William St, 3rd Floor, close to the 9/11 Tribute Museum, New York Stock Exchange, and The Seaport.

We understand that navigating insurance can be a concern for many patients. That’s why we offer free insurance verification even before your first appointment. Our team will work with your insurance provider to determine your coverage and help you make informed decisions about your treatment options. Whether you’re dealing with spider veins, varicose veins, or other venous issues, our team is dedicated to providing personalized care and comprehensive treatment options to help you achieve healthier legs. Schedule your consultation today.