Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a safe and well established treatment for thread veins on the legs. Although there are a number of alternative treatments, it remains the most reliably successful of them all.
How does sclerotherapy work?
A solution is injected with a very tiny needle, very superficially into the veins, causing the lining of the vein to swell and become sticky. Compression is then applied to close the veins. Over a period of time the vein will heal closed and fade away.
The results achieved after one treatment vary considerably from one client to another. You should budget for up to 4 treatments 4 – 16 weeks apart and you can expect an improvement in their appearance of 60 – 80%.
Is Sclerotherapy safe?
Though safe, it is not entirely without risk. Your practitioner will discuss all the risks and side effects with you at consultation.
Used to treat
This is the gold standard treatment for thread veins on the legs. Though appropriate for red, purple and blue veins up to 4mm in diameter, it is not suitable for patients who have varicose veins (lumpy, wriggly veins) or for facial veins.
Spider Veins
Recticular Veins
How long will Sclerotherapy last?
The veins that are successfully treated are gone for good, but there is no cure for the underlying vein condition and treatment cannot prevent new veins appearing in the future.
Does it hurt?
This is not a painful treatment, the needles used are tiny and the injections are very superficial. Commonly used sclerosants (the drug used) are not painful on injection. You may experience some prickling and itching after treatment for a few hours, these symptoms can be relieved with anti-histamines which can be purchased over the counter in supermarkets and pharmacies.
Am I suitable for treatment?
This treatment is not suitable for pregnant or nursing women, or patients with varicose veins. Your practitioner will take a thorough medical history to ensure you are suitable for treatment.
Before treatment
You will need to purchase compression hosiery and bring it with you to the appointment each time.
Hosiery can be purchased from www.daylong.co.uk. You may choose any brand or style but it must be;
Graduated Medical Compression, medium class.
We recommend either knee high or thigh high, do not purchase tights as these will be difficult to put on. No matter where your veins are, knee high will be suitable, cheaper and easier to wear.
Brands we would recommend are Legline 20 or Sigvaris both are comfortable and stylish.
Do not use bath oils, lotions of creams on your leg for 24 hours before your injections.
Dress in loose, dark clothing, jogging trousers or skirt and comfortable shoes to accommodate the support hosiery.
After treatment
You can resume normal activities.
Your veins will look worse before they get better. You may have bruising, red marks and you may have some brown pigmentation (looks like fading bruising) which, in rare cases, can take up to 18 months to fade. Following the aftercare advice, helps speed up the healing process and minimises risk of side effects.