Varicose Vein Treatment
What options are there to treat my varicose veins?
The two most common ways to treat varicose veins include microphlebectomy and sclerotherapy.
In microphlebectomy, the areas over the varicose veins are numbed. Small incisions 1-3 mm in size are made over the surface of the varicose veins and the veins are removed using small hooks through the incisions. Pressure is then held to stop any bleeding. This is often done in an outpatient office setting. The procedure takes a varying amount of time depending on the number of veins to be removed. This is often done in conjunction with ablation procedures.
Sclerotherapy is a good option for small varicose veins. An agent called Asclera is mixed with air to make foam which is then injected into the vein with a small needle.
I have small veins on my legs that are not varicose veins, what are these?
The smaller veins on the lower extremities, often blue or purple in color are referred to as spider and reticular veins. These veins are very small, superficial veins. They do not cause symptoms or harm, however, many patients do not like their appearance and would like them treated. It is recommended that all patients with venous concerns get screened for underlying venous insufficiency prior to treatment. Any damaged valves, even if not causing symptoms, can prevent the successful treatment of spider and reticular veins. Spider veins and reticular veins do not cause harm and for this reason, insurance will not cover their treatment. It does take time and potentially multiple sessions before the veins will completely disappear. Treating underlying venous disease can help prevent recurrence and help the success of cosmetic treatment.
How are reticular and spider veins treated?
Patients with reticular and spider veins are generally treated with sclerotherapy. A small needle is used to inject an agent into the vein to make them disappear.
What are some possible side effects of sclerotherapy?
The side effects of sclerotherapy that are reversible include the following:
- May have stinging pain at the injection site which will usually resolve within 15 minutes
- Can have bruising where injections occur
- Can have lumps where the veins are treated (more common in larger veins)
- Brown pigment lines can occur in the distribution of the veins, these can last for as long as 12 months after the procedure but will fade with time
- Ulcerations are very rare but can occur and are superficial
How do you do sclerotherapy at Vascular and Renal Care of Florida?
If interested in discussing possible spider vein or reticular vein treatment, please fill out the appointment request on the website or contact our office at 352-561-8742. This will allow us to book a scheduled consultation to discuss your venous concerns and to obtain an ultrasound or your veins. After reviewing the ultrasound, we will discuss whether you would be a good candidate for vein treatment.
Sessions for treatment are scheduled for 30 minutes or 1 hour. A maximum of 10 mL of agent can be used for safety reasons when treating your veins. At our office, we charge by the vial and each vial has 2 mL of agent. It is important to note; it can take 1-6 sessions or more before achieving the desired results.
What can I do to prepare for sclerotherapy? What can I expect after?
The night before your procedure do not apply any lotions or creams to the areas you wish to have treated. You will be notified of any medications to hold prior to your procedure.
You will need to wear compression stockings following the injections. These should not be removed for 72 hours and then should be worn during daylight hours for 2-3 weeks after. This can help with your results. It is normal to have some bruising and tenderness for the first 48 hours after your session.
The only true restriction you should expect is the avoidance of high intensity exercise. This will be for 48-72 hours after your procedure. Avoid chlorine and self-tanner on treated areas. Avoid soaking in pools, hot tubs, or baths for 2 weeks following the injections.