Sclerotherapy Treatment

Sclerotherapy is an effective treatment option for varicose veins and spider veins. It is often the preferred treatment method used for smaller varicose veins. The procedure involves injecting a solution or foam into the affected vein. The solution will cause the vein to scar. This causes the blood to be rerouted on to healthier veins nearby. The affected vein collapses and is later reabsorbed by the body as it eventually fades away.

sclerotherapy vein treatment at the BASS Vein Center in Walnut Creek

Sclerotherapy is often performed for cosmetic purposes to help improve the appearance of spider and varicose veins. It may also be used to help improve symptoms associated with these conditions such as aching, swelling, burning, and night cramps.

Risks or Side Effects Involved with Sclerotherapy Laser Treatment

There are very few serious complications involved with sclerotherapy. Many of the side effects that patients experience is only temporary. These can include:

Bruising
Small sores on the skin
Raised red areas
Darkened skin that appears in either lines or spots
Multiple small red blood vessels

Additional side effects that are less common but more severe and may require treatment include:

Inflammation
Blood clots
Air bubbles
Allergic reactions to the solution

How to Prepare for Sclerotherapy Laser Treatment

Before the treatment, one of our doctors will perform an exam and get all the details about your medical history. During the exam. Our doctor will evaluate the affected veins and check for any underlying diseases of the blood vessels.

While discussing your medical history, the doctor will want to know about any recent illnesses or current medical conditions you may have. They will want to know if you have any heart conditions or a history of blood clots.

They will also want to know about any medications or supplements you are taking. You must tell your doctor if you are taking any type of blood thinners. If you are taking them, you will be instructed on how to stop taking this type of medication before the procedure to help eliminate any potential issues.

The doctor will also ask if you are allergic to any medications and will want to know if you’ve had previous treatment for varicose or spider veins and what the outcome was like.

What to Expect During Sclerotherapy Treatment

Sclerotherapy does not require the use of anesthesia and it can be performed in the doctor’s office. The process typically takes around an hour to complete.

During the procedure, the patient lies with their back slightly elevated. After the area is cleaned, the doctor uses a small needed to insert the solution into the vein.

The solution is often in liquid form and causes the lining of the vein to become irritated. This leads to the vein swelling shut and closing. Over time, the vein will become scar tissue and eventually disappear.

Once the procedure is over, patients can get up and walk around. Walking is essential during this time to ensure that no blood clots will form. It is recommended that patients wear compression stockings or bandages for around two weeks following the treatment to ensure compression is maintained on the treated veins.

Many people can return to their usual activities on the same day as treatment. However, it is usually advised to avoid strenuous activities and difficult exercise during the first two weeks after the procedure.