Serving - atlanta, ga
Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive medical procedure that treats the small (less than 3mm) visible red, blue and purple clusters of veins that appear in the thighs, knees and ankles. In addition to diminishing the appearance of the veins, sclerotherapy can also reduce pain or itching caused by damaged veins. Spider and small varicose veins called reticular veins develop as a result of weight or hormonal changes, occupations with prolonged standing or sitting, pregnancy, and heredity. While mostly found on the thigh or lower leg, they can form anywhere on the leg from the thigh to the ankle. Sclerotherapy has proven to be a very popular nonsurgical cosmetic procedure for the treatment of spider veins.
During your sclerotherapy treatment in our Atlanta office, Dr. Lindsey Webb will inject a special solution through a thin needle into the vein(s) to damage the lining inside the vein, causing the vein walls to swell, stick together, and seal shut. No anesthesia is required for this treatment except for topical numbing cream or ice, if needed. Some results are immediately evident and sometimes it takes a few weeks for the final effect to be visible. After healing has occurred, the vein will no longer be obvious. A typical sclerotherapy session lasts about 15 to 45 minutes.
During the treatment session, the skin over your spider veins will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution. The special solution that is injected directly into the affected veins is polidocanol (Asclera®) or hypertonic saline. Although you will feel small needle sticks and possibly a mild burning sensation, the pain is usually minimal.
The number of veins that can be treated during a single sclerotherapy session depends upon their size and location. Effects are permanent on existing problem areas; however it is unrealistic to expect that every affected vein will disappear completely as a result of treatment. Sclerotherapy treats veins that are currently visible, but it does not prevent new veins from surfacing in the future. Large problematic varicose or deep veins may require discussion with a vascular surgeon or other vein specialist. Regular use of compression hose may be recommended for individuals constantly on their feet, flying frequently or generally prone to developing new visible veins.
Dr. Webb is a board certified plastic surgeon who performs sclerotherapy in the familiar and comfortable environment of our professional office. Patients are sent home the same day, and recovery time is minimal. Patients should abstain from alcohol and NSAIDs, like aspirin or ibuprofen, for the week prior the procedure to decrease the risk of bruising at the injection sites. Those who decide to undergo a sclerotherapy treatment should avoid intense physical activity and long plane rides for 2-3 days after the procedure, before returning to their normal routine. Patients should plan to wear compression stockings or support hose around the clock for 1 week after the procedure and then while up and active for 3-6 weeks for best results. Occasionally, additional treatment sessions are needed to address more stubborn areas.
If you are ready to wipe out those small, unsightly spider veins, schedule a consultation with Dr. Lindsey Webb at 404-661-6865 to discuss your individual treatment plan.