Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy treatment improves the appearance of small varicose and spider veins by injecting a concentrated solution into the vein. Book Sclerotherapy TreatmentAbout Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy at Elume Medspa in Fairfax, Virginia is an injectable treatment for spider veins and small surface veins, performed under the care of Shaheen Ghafari, a licensed Nurse Practitioner. A very fine needle is used to place a solution directly into the vein, which causes the vein wall to close so that the vessel fades from view and is gradually absorbed by the body. Treatment is most often used on the legs, and the number of sessions depends on how many vessels are being treated. Pricing is quoted at consultation.
How Does Sclerotherapy Work?
A concentrated solution is injected directly into the vein through a fine needle. The solution irritates the lining of the vein, which causes it to swell shut and restrict the flow of blood. The treated vein eventually scars, collapses, and is reabsorbed into the surrounding tissue, so the visible vein fades from view within a few weeks. In some cases, several sclerotherapy treatments may be necessary to produce complete results.
Why Undergo Sclerotherapy Treatment?
Sclerotherapy is mostly undergone for cosmetic purposes. With sclerotherapy, you will see significant improvement in the appearance of varicose and spider veins as you watch them fade in a short while. This treatment can also improve symptoms related to the varicose and spider vein problem. Key benefits include:
- Significant improvement in the appearance of varicose and spider veins
- Relief from swelling and aching related to problem veins
- Relief from burning sensations and nightly cramps
- Noticeable results within three to six weeks for most treated veins
- Veins that respond to treatment usually do not come back
- An overall success rate of elimination between 60 and 80 percent
The Sclerotherapy Treatment Process
Consultation
Preparation
Treatment
Post-Treatment
Review & Assessment
Before your procedure, you will be scheduled for a physical examination. Your doctor will also collect your extensive medical history. During your physical, your doctor will examine and evaluate the veins that will be involved in the treatment and check for any pre-existing diseases of the blood vessels.
If you are taking aspirin, NSAIDS or any blood thinner medications, your doctor will make sure you suspend your medication regimen before the sclerotherapy procedure in order to reduce the risk of bleeding.
Learn more about our owner and licensed Nurse Practitioner, Shaheen Ghafari.
Pre-Treatment Preparation
The day before your treatment (24 full hours) you must make sure to avoid applying any lotion to your legs. Also make sure to wear loose-fitting comfortable clothing to your appointment. Consider wearing shorts.
Sclerotherapy is usually conducted in the office and does not require any anesthetic. The procedure usually lasts less than 1 hour.
The Injection Procedure
After lying on your back, your doctor will use a fine needle to inject a solution into the designated vein. The solution irritates the lining of the vein, which causes it to swell shut and restrict the flow of blood. The vein eventually scars and will disappear.
Some people may experience minor cramps or stinging sensations when the needle is inserted into the treated vein. If you experience pain, be sure to alert your doctor. When the needle is withdrawn from the vein, your doctor will compress and massage the area to keep blood away from the injected vessel and spread the solution. The amount of injections depends on the size and the number of veins being treated.
Recovery & Results
You will be able to immediately walk after the procedure concludes. It is important to get up and walk around to prevent blood clots from forming. You will be asked to wear compression stockings or bandages for a two week period to keep constant compression on the treated veins. Many patients will get on with their normal daily activities the same day they leave their treatment appointment, though you will be advised to avoid intense exercise and sun exposure to the treated areas for two weeks.
Noticeable results from treatment to varicose or spider veins will appear within three to six weeks. Larger veins may take three or four months to heal and show visible improvement. You will likely need to schedule a follow up visit about one month after your procedure to check up on the success of the procedure and make a determination on whether or not further sclerotherapy treatments are needed.
Sclerotherapy
FAQs
How long does a sclerotherapy treatment take?
Sclerotherapy is performed in the office and does not require any anesthetic. The procedure usually lasts less than 1 hour, and you will be able to walk immediately after it concludes. Many patients return to their normal daily activities the same day.
When will I see results from sclerotherapy?
Noticeable results usually appear within three to six weeks of treatment. Larger veins may take three or four months to heal and show visible improvement. In some cases, several treatments are necessary to produce complete results, and a follow up visit about one month after your procedure is used to decide whether further sessions are needed.
What should I do after my sclerotherapy treatment?
Walking right after the procedure is encouraged. You will be asked to wear compression stockings or bandages for about two weeks, and to avoid intense exercise and sun exposure to the treated areas during that period.
