What are spider veins?

Spider veins are small clusters of thin veins that lie close to the surface of the skin and are commonly red, blue or purple in appearance. Although these super-fine veins are connected with the larger venous system, they are not an essential part of it. Spider veins usually take on one of three basic patterns. They may appear in a true spider-shape with a group of veins radiating outward from a dark central point; they may be arborizing and will resemble tiny branch-like shapes; or they may be simply linear and appear as thin separate lines. Linear spider veins are commonly seen on the inner knee, whereas the arborizing pattern often appears on the outer thigh in a sunburst or cartwheel distribution. A number of factors contribute to the development of spider veins, including heredity, pregnancy and other events that cause hormonal shifts or weight gain. Occupations or activities that require prolonged sitting or standing, and the use of certain medications have also been shown to exacerbate the condition.

Millions of men and women are bothered by the unsightly appearance of spider veins. Today, many plastic surgeons are treating spider veins with sclerotherapy. Sclerotherapy involves an injection directly into the vein which causes them to collapse and fade from view.

The best candidates for sclerotherapy

Women and men of any age may be good candidates for sclerotherapy, but most fall in the 30-to-60 category. In some women, spider veins may become noticeable at a very early age – in the teen years. For others, the veins may not become obvious until they reach their 40s.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you may be advised to postpone sclerotherapy treatment. In most cases, spider veins that surface during pregnancy will disappear on their own within three months after the baby is born. Also, because it's not known how sclerosing solutions may affect breast milk, nursing mothers are usually advised to wait until after they have stopped breastfeeding.

What to expect from sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy can enhance your appearance and your self confidence, but it's unrealistic to believe that every affected vein will disappear completely as a result of treatment. After each sclerotherapy session, the veins will appear lighter. Two or more sessions are usually required to achieve optimal results.

You should also be aware that the procedure treats only those veins that are currently visible; it does nothing to permanently alter the venous system or prevent new veins from surfacing in the future.

Before you decide to have sclerotherapy, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with your Georgia Sloan R.N.

Planning your treatment

During your initial consultation, your legs will be examined. A simple sketch of your legs will map out the areas affected by spider veins or other problems. During the examination, you will be checked for signs of more serious "deep vein" problems, often indicated by swelling, sores, or skin changes at the ankle.

If such problems are identified, Georgia Sloan R.N., may refer you to a different specialist for further evaluation. Problems with the larger veins must be treated first, or sclerotherapy of the surface veins will be unsuccessful.

It's important to be open in discussing your history and treatment goals. Do not hesitate to ask any questions or express any concerns you may have. The procedure will be described to you in great detail, along with the recovery period and the costs. (Medical insurance usually does not cover cosmetic procedures.)

Preparing for the procedure

You will receive specific instructions on how to prepare for your treatment. Carefully following these instructions will help the procedure go more smoothly.

You'll be instructed not to apply any type of moisturizer, sun block or oil to your legs on the day of your procedure. You may want to bring shorts to wear during the injections, as well as your physician-prescribed support hose, and slacks to wear home.

When scheduling your procedure, keep in mind that your legs may be bruised or slightly discolored for some weeks afterward. You probably won't be comfortable wearing shorts, a swimsuit or a mini skirt until after your legs have cleared up a bit.

Where your treatment will be performed

Sclerotherapy of spider veins is a relatively simple procedure that requires no anesthesia and is performed in the procedure room at The Artisan Center.

The procedure

A typical sclerotherapy session is relatively quick, lasting only about 15 to 45 minutes. After changing into shorts, your legs may be photographed for your medical records. You will be asked to lie down on the examination table and the skin over your spider veins will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution. Using one hand to stretch the skin taut, the sclerosing agent is injected directly into the affected veins. Bright, indirect light and magnification help ensure that the process is completed with maximum precision.

Approximately one injection is administered for every inch of spider vein - anywhere from five to 40 injections per treatment session. A cotton ball and compression tape is applied to each area of the leg as it is finished.

You will be asked to shift positions a few times during the process. As the procedure continues, you will feel small needle sticks and possibly a mild burning sensation. However, the needle used is so thin and the sclerosing solution is so mild that pain is usually minimal.

After your treatment

In addition to the compression tape applied during the procedure, tight-fitting support hose may be prescribed to guard against blood clots and to promote healing. The tape and cotton balls can be removed after 48 hours. However, you may be instructed to wear the support hose for 72 hours or more.

It's not uncommon to experience some cramping in the legs for the first day or two after the injections. This temporary problem usually doesn't require medication.

You should be aware that your treated veins will look worse before they begin to look better. When the compression dressings are removed, you will notice bruising and reddish areas at the injection sites. The bruises will diminish within one month. In many cases, there may be some residual brownish pigmentation which may take up to a year to completely fade.

If you are interested in scheduling a complimentary consultation please call: 281-578-7600