What is it?
Sclerotherapy is a type of treatment for varicose, reticular and spider veins. The procedure involves the direct injection of an FDA approved agent into small visible veins just under the skin. The agent causes the veins to shrink. With repeated treatments (usually 2-3) the veins may disappear completely.
Can sclerotherapy be used to treat spider veins?
Yes, sclerotherapy is the gold standard for spider veins, even when there is no pain involved.
Is sclerotherapy used alone or in conjunction with other treatments for purposes of treating varicose veins?
When leg pain is involved, sclerotherapy is usually used in conjunction with the endovenous laser ablation (evla) treatment, as well as ambulatory phlebectomy.
How is sclerotherapy performed and what is injected?
The fda approved detergent solution (sodium tetradecyl – a detergent that causes irritation within the treated vein eventually leading to permanent closure of the vein and making the vein invisible) is injected through a fine needle directly into the vein. The procedure itself takes about 15-30 minutes. The number of veins injected in one session varies and depends on the size and location of the veins, as well as the general medical condition of the patient.
How long will it take for the treated blood vessels to disappear?
Usually the spider veins will disappear between two to eight weeks following treatment. Recurrence of spider veins is possible and the treatment does not prevent new spider veins from appearing.
How many treatment sessions will i need?
This depends on the severity of the spider vein disease in your particular case. Average treatment is two to three sessions. If you have vein reflux disease, it should be treated first to help prevent recurrence and progression of the spider veins.
How will i know if i am a candidate for sclerotherapy?
Prior to the procedure, you will have an initial consultation with one of our physicians who will advise you on your eligibility for sclerotherapy.
What are the alternatives to sclerotherapy?
If cosmetic improvement is desired, some visible veins may be treated with our laser.
Will my insurance company pay for spider vein treatment?
If the treatment is soley for cosmetic improvement purposes to eliminate the visual spider veins, without the presence of leg pain, then insurance will not pay for sclerotherapy treatment. We will not file an insurance claim for sclerotherapy and payment is required at the completion of the sclerotherapy session on the day of treatment.
If treatment is due to vein disease and is being performed in conjunction with other treatments such as an EVLA or ambulatory phlebectomy, we will file a claim with your insurance. We will also make sure we have approval from your insurance company prior to your actual treatment.
Before and After Photos
