Sclerotherapy for Varicose Veins
Effective treatment for varicose veins in patients who have a history of prior vein procedures.
Not only are varicose veins painful, but they are also often an eyesore for the person who is suffering from them. They can be a tricky condition to treat since everyone’s body reacts differently to them, but sclerotherapy is one of the gold standards that most people are able to get satisfactory results from.
Here are a handful of reasons our office may recommend sclerotherapy for varicose veins:
- It is particularly successful in patients who have not found success in prior vein procedures
- It has a high success rate in the general treatment of varicose veins across a spectrum of case types
- It is a minimally invasive procedure
- The entire process takes less than 30 minutes in most cases
By using patient-specific sclerotherapy techniques that avoid a cookie-cutter approach, the Vein Center of Florida and The Vein Center of South Baldwin can make a big difference in the appearance of your broken veins. If you would like to find more information about how our sclerotherapy treatments can help you, Call 1-800-910-VEIN or request your FREE vein screening today.
What Is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is one of the preferred methods of treating varicose veins because of how safe, reliable and impactful the treatment is. It is performed through an injection of a solution that is applied directly into the vein. The goal is simple: destroy the vein. It may sound dangerous, but it is very safe — the body will naturally reroute the blood flow to a less problematic stream.
While it can take a few weeks for the treatment to show its final results, the endgame is a rejuvenated appearance throughout the leg. It’s already a popular procedure performed on countless patients, and it only continues to grow in popularity as people search for ways to rid themselves of troublesome veins.
Am I a Candidate for Sclerotherapy?
If you are dealing with varicose veins that are causing you pain, aching, swelling, burning or night cramps, or if you would simply like to improve the appearance of your varicose veins, then you may be a good candidate for sclerotherapy treatment.
Sclerotherapy is generally not performed on anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding. We also highly recommend that you develop realistic expectations about what sclerotherapy can achieve. Spend plenty of time reviewing before and after images and doing your own research through credible sources. Knowing precisely what you are getting into will prevent any feelings of disappointment or regret caused by unrealistic expectations.
How Should I Prepare for Sclerotherapy?
Before your sclerotherapy procedure, Dr. Jimenez will conduct a thorough examination of your condition, including the examination of any problematic veins. They will also review your medical history and check for any underlying vein conditions.
You should disclose any medical conditions especially those related to blood clots. You will be asked to provide a full list of prescription and over-the-counter medications you take. An ultrasound may be requested so that a more complete image of your veins can be understood.
Once those steps have been completed, Dr. Jimenez will take time speaking with you to best understand your goals for sclerotherapy treatment. He will use all the information gathered and work with you to determine the best treatment plan for your unique condition.
You should avoid applying anything to your legs (including lotion) and refrain from shaving the day before your procedure. Dr. Jimenez will provide you with instructions that gives you the highest probability of success and safety.
What Should I Expect from a Sclerotherapy Procedure?
Sclerotherapy is performed in our office as an outpatient procedure. You will not need to undergo anesthesia. The area that is being treated will be cleaned sterilely.
A fine needle will then be inserted into the targeted vein. A solution designed to block the blood flow through the vein is inserted. Shortly after the solution is injected, the vein will become nothing more than scar tissue and fade. This process is repeated for all troublesome veins that are being treated. Once the injections are complete, you will likely be required to wear compression hose for several days.
What Should I Expect During Sclerotherapy Recovery?
One of the best aspects of this procedure is that there is virtually no recovery or downtime associated with it. You can walk around immediately after the treatment is complete and return directly to your routines and responsibilities. You may decide to take some time off from work, but most of our patients are able to return the same day.
Compression garments are highly recommended and often mandated by your physician since they help prevent excessive swelling and damage to the treated areas.
You should avoid any high impact activities in the short term. This usually takes around two weeks, but it can run longer or shorter depending on your body’s unique recovery process. Prolonged exposure to UV light can create inflammation and dark spots on your skin, so do your best to avoid the sun whenever possible.
What Kind of Results Can I Expect from Sclerotherapy?
You can expect to have noticeable changes in the appearance of your treated veins within three to six weeks for veins of average size, but that number may increase to three or four months for larger veins since it takes longer for them to respond completely.
It is unusual for veins that have been treated to come back after treatment, but it is, unfortunately, possible for new broken veins to develop in some cases. These can be treated accordingly.
Treating problematic veins on your legs creates a much smoother, more youthful appearance that you will be happy to show off with shorts and dresses.
Sclerotherapy Treatment in Florida and Alabama
Take the next step for sclerotherapy. Whether you are in Pensacola, Destin or Escambia County, Florida, or Foley/Baldwin County, Alabama, The Vein Center is here to help you. Call our office at 1-800-910-VEIN or request your free vein screening today.
We know the process seems arduous, but that is why we are excited to be your partner from start to finish and make this journey as easy and stress-free as possible. If you would like to send us a message to get more information, fill out our online contact form to get your sclerotherapy process started.