Spider veins are those little bluish/purple veins that look like threads or spider webs on the legs, chest and sometimes the face. Sclerotherapy is a very effective, minimally-invasive treatment option for spider veins removal that may result in clear skin again. Spider veins may form because of too much exposure to the sun or the result of trauma such as an injury.
What Is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a spider veins removal treatment in which our specialist injects a chemical, either Hypertonic Saline or Asclera®, directly into the spider vein. This chemical irritates the vein wall causing the blood to coagulate and the vein to collapse. If the spider vein is causing swelling or pain, the treatment may alleviate the symptoms. Once the vein is destroyed it will be absorbed by the surrounding tissue and gradually disappear in as little as three weeks. Some veins may require several spider veins removal treatments.
What to Expect before and during the Procedure
When you visit our vein specialist, your spider veins will be examined. We will also review your medical history. The treatment is performed in our office and it may take about 15 minutes for each vein treated.
When you meet our doctor, you should mention if you are pregnant or have any allergies, medical conditions such as heart disease or coagulating disorders. You should also mention any over-the-counter medications, dietary supplements and prescription drugs you take. If you smoke or take oral contraceptives you should also tell the doctor. We will provide you with any information you may need regarding pre- and post-treatment care for spider veins removal.
What to Expect after the Procedure
When the treatment is completed, we may ask you to get up and walk for a few minutes. This will help maximize the benefit of the treatment and reduce the chance of blood clots forming. We may give you graduated compression stockings or bandages to keep up pressure on the treated spider veins. This will ensure that they remain closed.
Even though spider veins may be harmless most of the time, they are unsightly and may cause you to be embarrassed when you wear summer clothing. In some cases, they may cause swelling and pain. There is no reason to live with spider veins when you can visit Worcester Dermatology Associates have them removed through sclerotherapy. We have locations in Worcester as well as Chelmsford, MA. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!