Can Sclerotherapy Really Eliminate Small Varicose Veins?
Painful varicose veins have become more than just a simple ailment. In fact, more than 40 million people in the United States are suffering from varicose veins and at least 50% of Americans over 50 years old are affected by it. One of the most popular forms of vein treatment is sclerotherapy. It is known as the gold standard in varicose vein treatment for patients who want to get rid of those ugly spider veins on their legs. But is it really efficient?
It’s an Easy and Safe Procedure
Unlike surgery, sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution into the spider veins to make them clump and become less visible.
Depending on the severity of the varicose veins, several injections may be required, but the procedure is easy, non-invasive and not as painful as having surgery. In fact, Yale University School of Medicine Assistant Clinical Professor Dr. Lisa Donofrio pointed out that sclerotherapy is “an incredibly safe, easy procedure.”
It’s a Good Way to Treat the Early Signs of Varicose Veins
Doctors especially recommend sclerotherapy for patients who show early signs of spider veins due to family history.
Since veins are still smaller, they can easily be eliminated through the procedure and the patient won’t have to go through so many sessions just to make those varicose veins disappear.
Excellent Results
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), patients who undergo sclerotherapy have up to 90% chance of improving the appearance of their varicose veins after treatment. With proper maintenance treatment, patients can also keep their extremities vein-free for a longer time.
Relatively Cheaper than most Procedures
When compared to laser treatments, sclerotherapy is still much cheaper but offers almost the same results. Most doctors would charge from $375 to $750 for sclerotherapy sessions depending on the severity of the condition. Some doctors also charge per vein treated.
It can be used in conjunction with other Treatments
For patients with very visible varicose veins, doctors may recommend a vein treatment that combines several procedures, the most common of which is sclerotherapy and laser.
Sclerotherapy is used first to treat the majority of the affected area and laser is used for delicate areas and at the tip of the vein.
No Serious Complications
Sclerotherapy is one of the safest vein treatments out there because it doesn’t have any serious side effects or complications.
After the procedure, you may experience skin discoloration, bruising, stinging and muscle cramps. But all of these side effects are temporary and can be treated with the help of your doctor. If you have any allergic reaction to the solution used, inform your health provider right away so proper medications can be given to you.
Millions of patients suffering from varicose veins have tried or are considering sclerotherapy as their preferred vein treatment because of its efficiency in eliminating those ugly veins.
But more than anything, it’s very important to consult your doctor and learn more about this treatment first to know if it’s the right one for you.
We specialize in diagnosis and treatment for any and all vascular health issues for patients in San Diego County, Orange County, and Riverside County. For more information or to set an appointment, please contact us.
