Unlike varicose veins, which are large, bulky and slightly branched, the vascular dilatations known as spider veins are thin and can take different forms: linear, straight, branched or spider web type. Sclerotherapy is addressed generally to all persons (adults) of any age or sex. It is a procedure that treats the existing veins one at a time, with no prophylactic effect of preventing other vascular dilatations. In addition to this, it has no therapeutic effect on the deep venous system. For an effective treatment, multiple sessions may be needed every 1 to 3 months. Sclerotherapy is contraindicated in pregnant and nursing women.
Vascular dilatations due to pregnancy generally disappear spontaneously within the first months after birth. Furthermore, sclerotherapy is contraindicated in persons who are infected with HIV, as well as those suffering from hepatitis, blood disorders, cardio-circulatory diseases, and diabetes. Serious medical problems are extremely rare if the procedure is performed by a qualified doctor. Among the possible complications, some of the most significant ones are thrombus formation in vessels, local inflammations, allergic reactions to the sclerosing substance, skin lesions and even some small scars in the areas where surgery is performed. One of the most common cosmetic complications is the irregularity of skin pigmentation in the treated area as small brown spots that disappear after a period of several months to a year.
Another complication that is less common is the occurrence of other small vascular dilatations around larger vessels, which will require further treatment. Before the sclerotherapy session does not apply moisturizer or cream and wears loose comfortable clothing, allowing the application of the post-injection bandage. To ensure the success of surgery, notify your doctor about all your health problems, especially if you are taking anticoagulants. The procedure involves injecting a very fine needle directly into a vein. It requires no anesthesia and is not a painful procedure, even though you will feel minimal discomfort locally. Treatment is fast and lasts for 15-45 minutes. After treatment, the doctor will apply a special dressing and bandages on the treated areas, which will be kept for 72 hours.
After this, you will be required to wear elastic stocking for a period of approximately three weeks. You may also feel burning sensations or cramping for a few days. After removing the bandage from the treated area you might experience inflammation of tissue or dark stains, but they will vanish in time and no one will be able to see them. A month after the first session, the veins will become much lighter and after two or more sessions the treated region will be clearer, smoother and more attractive.
After treatment, activities like walking are strongly recommended. In addition to this, you should also avoid prolonged standing in uncomfortable positions and heavy sports or aggressive jogging. While looking for medical facilities that perform spider vein removal treatment procedures, you should ensure that they have a high success rate and employ only qualified medical professionals on board who will not only perform the procedure correctly and safely but also guide you in the post-operative period.
