What is Getting Sclerotherapy Like?
Dr. Schwartz provides first time spider vein patients with an initial extended treatment session (approximately 40 minutes) to clear as many spider veins as possible. Follow-up sessions (typically 3-5 additional sessions will be needed) will run approximately 20 minutes. Dr. Schwartz performs this as an outpatient procedure with no recovery time after treatment. You may feel some minor stinging or a pinch during the injection, but no significant discomfort. Each patient is required to wear prescription-grade compression stockings for a period of time following each treatment to assist in the healing process.
Is There Any Downtime With Sclerotherapy?
After sclerotherapy, you may experience some bruising, stinging, and swelling, which should improve within a few days. Dr. Schwartz recommends taking 24 hours before engaging in any activity that will raise the heart rate, such as exercise or hard work.
You should walk frequently and avoid sitting for long periods of time to keep blood flowing, and you will be encouraged to resume normal activities as soon as possible to keep you active and moving. Promoting healthy blood flow will help the body remove the collapsed vein and prevent the blood from forming clots.
What Causes Spider Veins?
Spider veins will sometimes accompany varicose veins, but will often appear on their own. Factors influencing the development of spider veins include:
- Genetics
- Standing for long periods of time
- Obesity
- Hormones, including pregnancy
- A history of blood clots
- High blood pressure
Am I a Good Candidate for Sclerotherapy?
Good candidates for sclerotherapy present with visible spider veins that Dr. Schwartz has determined will respond well to this treatment. Patients should be in overall good health and should tell the doctor about any history of blood clots or similar problems. Smoking contributes to cardiovascular problems and poor healing, and it’s advised that people undergoing vein treatments should avoid smoking. Dr. Schwartz will present each patient with the expected number of treatments that will be needed to fully clear the spider veins, although new spider veins may develop.
