Sclerotherapy is a medical treatment procedure to treat spider and varicose veins. It is one of the most frequently used procedures to treat spider and varicose veins. Sclerotherapy involves the injection of a chemical solution called sclerosant into the affected veins. The chemical then scars and closes off the veins and forces blood to reroute itself to healthier veins. Over time, the injected spider and varicose veins are reabsorbed by the body and fade away.
How much does sclerotherapy cost?
The cost for sclerotherapy depends on the extent of spider and/or varicose veins as larger spider and varicose veins may require multiple sessions, and the state where you are getting treatment. On average, sclerotherapy costs around $350 to $410 per session. This does not cover other related expenses such as hospital service charge, anaesthesia, or surgeon’s fee. You need to consult with the doctor’s office to determine the final fee.
Is sclerotherapy covered by insurance?
Sclerotherapy for varicose vein treatments are covered by most insurance companies, as long as they are deemed ‘medically necessary’. For this, some insurance companies may require a referral to cover treatment so they can verify that it is medically necessary. Even then, it is possible for the front office staff at the vein clinic to obtain a referral on your behalf. Speak to the vein clinic about this when you book your appointment. They can then gain an understanding of your insurance coverage and maybe even obtain a referral for you without you having to go through the hassle of visiting your primary care physician.
Spider vein treatment, however, is generally considered a cosmetic treatment and not medically necessary, which would mean that most insurance will not cover sclerotherapy for spider vein treatment. However, it is best to discuss with the doctor’s office to determine whether your insurance does cover the treatment.
Is sclerotherapy safe?
Sclerotherapy is a generally safe and simple procedure. Like with any medical procedure, sclerotherapy comes with certain risks and side effects. Side effects can include swelling and bruising on the area of treatment, change in skin sensation, hyperpigmentation, infection, persistent pain, scarring, and ulceration. The risks of developing these side effects depend on your surgeon’s abilities and your body’s temperament. This is why it is important to make sure you do enough research on finding the right vein specialists for your treatment. Your doctor will discuss the likelihood of the risks against the benefits of the procedure with you before the procedure.
How long does sclerotherapy last?
After sclerotherapy, it can take anywhere between three to twelve weeks for the body to fully absorb the treated veins and for the veins to disappear. The treated veins are then permanently removed and will not reappear; however, new spider and varicose veins may appear again, on the same location or on different locations. This is because spider veins are caused by lifestyle, genetic, or environmental factors that the treatment cannot control. To prevent spider veins from returning, it is more important to focus on lifestyle changes such as weight control, increased exercise, and quitting harmful habits such as smoking. Genetic disposition cannot, however, be controlled, and spider veins may still return after treatment.
How long does it take for sclerotherapy to heal?
The time taken for your legs to heal after sclerotherapy depends on multiple factors, such as your general health disposition, the extent of your treatment, and how well you look after yourself after the procedure. On average, it takes two to six weeks for sclerotherapy to heal.
What should one avoid after sclerotherapy?
After sclerotherapy, you need to give your body time to heal before performing certain activities, generally for five to seven days. Things to avoid after your procedure include:
- Direct sunlight,
- Saunas,
- Taking hot showers or baths,
- Strenuous exercise,
- Hot compresses on the area,
- Going into whirlpools or jacuzzis.
How long after sclerotherapy can I see the results?
Sclerotherapy works by scarring and closing off affected veins so that blood stops flowing from those veins. The veins are then eventually reabsorbed by the body and fade away. This can take anywhere between three to twelve weeks.
The Vein Clinic boasts a team of highly experienced vein doctors who are at the top of their fields and have all been trained at Ivy League universities. All our doctors are fellowship trained and double board certified. With cutting edge, state-of-the-art technology and world class medical infrastructure at their disposal, these vein specialists use the most advanced procedures to treat their patients. To top it all, our doctors know to keep patients’ comfort ahead and treat them with friendliness, patience, and kindness.
Our vein clinic at San Diego is currently located near the Torrey Pine beach state park, close to the Westfield UTC Shopping Center. In San Jose, our vein clinic is located in a beautiful neighborhood near Palo Alto, Sunnydale, and Santa Clara. It is down the block from the Santa Clara Medical Center, and the Santana Row Shopping Mall. Our experienced Harvard-trained vein doctors can offer the best care possible to help you.