Sclerotherapy

Varicose veins, reticular veins, and spider veins are common vascular conditions that affect millions of people worldwide. While these conditions may not pose a serious threat to your health, they can be unsightly and can cause discomfort, swelling, and pain. Fortunately, there are a variety of effective treatments available to help reduce or eliminate these conditions, including sclerotherapy.

At HealthPark Medical Aesthetics, we offer sclerotherapy as a treatment option for reticular veins and spider veins, and for some smaller varicose veins. Dr. Puppala trained in sclerotherapy at the Dr. Martin's Sclerotherapy course in Barrie, Ontario in 2018 and has provided this service in Sydney since then. Your suitability is assessed at consultation, and larger varicose veins may require referral to a vascular specialist.

Varicose veins are large, twisted, and swollen veins that can be seen under the skin's surface. They often occur in the legs and can cause pain, swelling, and aching. Varicose veins occur when the valves in the veins that are responsible for directing blood flow back to the heart become damaged or weak. This causes the blood to pool in the veins, leading to the formation of varicose veins.

Reticular veins are slightly smaller than varicose veins, but they still appear as twisted, blue or green veins visible beneath the skin. Reticular veins may also be referred to as feeder veins because they can lead to the development of spider veins. Reticular veins often appear on the legs, thighs, and face, and may cause mild discomfort or itching.

Spider veins are small, thin veins that appear close to the skin's surface. They are typically red, blue, or purple, and often occur on the legs, face, and other areas of the body. Spider veins are not usually painful or harmful, but they can be unsightly and can affect your self-esteem.

Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting a solution directly into the affected vein. This solution irritates the lining of the vein, causing it to collapse and stick together. Over time, the vein turns into scar tissue and is absorbed by the body, reducing or eliminating the appearance of the vein.

Sclerotherapy is performed in the office. Most patients can walk and return to many normal activities the same day, although compression stockings are usually required and strenuous exercise may need to be limited for a short time afterwards.

MSI covers the treatment costs of varicose veins but not reticular veins and spider veins as the latter are considered cosmetic. However it is necessary that you have to purchase compression stockings for the treatment to be successful. You May purchase them at your drug store before the appointment or we can provide them to you at the time of consultation for a price.

Benefits of Sclerotherapy

• Improved Appearance: One of the main benefits of sclerotherapy is the improvement in the appearance of varicose or spider veins. The solution used in the procedure causes the veins to shrink and eventually disappear, resulting in smoother, clearer skin.
• Non-Surgical: Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical procedure that does not require incisions or general anesthesia. It is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed in-office and typically takes less than an hour to complete.
• Recovery: Most patients can walk and return to many usual activities the same day. Compression stockings are usually worn afterwards, and bruising or temporary skin discolouration can occur.
• Long-Lasting Results: The results of sclerotherapy can be long-lasting, with many patients experiencing a significant improvement in the appearance of their veins after just one treatment. However, multiple treatments may be necessary to achieve the desired results.
• Increased Confidence: For many people, varicose or spider veins can cause self-consciousness and lower self-esteem. Sclerotherapy can help to improve the appearance of these veins, leading to increased confidence and a better quality of life.

Risks of Sclerotherapy

• Pain: Some patients may experience mild discomfort during and after sclerotherapy. This may include burning, stinging, or cramping sensations at the injection site.
• Bruising and Swelling: Bruising and swelling are common side effects of sclerotherapy. These side effects typically resolve within a few days of treatment.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some patients may experience an allergic reaction to the sclerosing solution used in the procedure. Symptoms may include hives, itching, and difficulty breathing.
• Infection: There is a small risk of infection associated with sclerotherapy. This risk can be minimized by ensuring that the injection site is clean and sterile before treatment.
• Blood Clots: Although rare, there is a risk of blood clots forming after sclerotherapy. This risk can be reduced by wearing compression stockings and staying active after treatment.
• Hyperpigmentation: In some cases, the injection site may develop darkened patches of skin known as hyperpigmentation. This side effect typically resolves on its own within a few months.
• Telangiectatic Matting: Some patients may experience the development of tiny red veins near the injection site. This side effect, known as telangiectatic matting, typically resolves on its own within a few months.

Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical procedure that can improve the appearance of spider and reticular veins. Results vary, and more than one treatment is often needed. However, like any medical procedure, there are risks associated with sclerotherapy. Patients should discuss these risks with their medical provider before undergoing treatment. Dr. Puppala can provide patients with the information they need to make an informed decision about sclerotherapy. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about this procedure.