Spider Vein Treatment (Sclerotherapy)

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Spider Vein Treatment Overview

Spider vein treatment, also more formally referred to as sclerotherapy, is a cosmetic procedure that helps eliminate spider veins, most typically from the legs. Spider veins are small red, purple and blue vessels that have swelled and become visible and unsightly. They commonly increase in visibility with age. Spider veins are typically a result of:

  • Heredity
  • Pregnancy
  • Hormonal shifts
  • Weight gain
  • Occupations or activities that require prolonged sitting or standing
  • Any combination of these factors

Spider veins are a very common cosmetic concern. In fact, it is estimated that over half of all women experience this problem. This condition can cause them to feel self-conscious about their legs; even preventing them from wearing clothing that reveal the legs.

Spider vein treatment can rejuvenate your legs, making the skin appear younger and more evenly toned, often restoring confidence and allowing a wider choice of clothing options.

Spider Vein Treatment

Spider vein treatment by sclerotherapy has been performed since the early 1930’s and is a time tested and effective cosmetic procedure. Dr. Sardo injects a special solution called Aesclera (polidocanol) directly into the vein via a tiny needle. The solution is foamed to treat the larger veins. This irritates the lining of the vein and causes it to close. Over the next three to six weeks, the vein will gradually disappear.
The procedure typically takes less than an hour depending on the severity of your case and is performed in the office.

Recovery After Spider Vein Injections

Compression stockings will be placed and they will be worn for 3-7 days. The treated areas may appear bruised and may itch; however, this will resolve. Any heavy straining, lifting, and squatting should be avoided. After one month, you are typically ready to undergo further spider vein treatment, if necessary.

Risks include allergy to the solution, “hemosiderin staining” (a prolonged brownish discoloration from the iron in the bruise), “telangiectatic matting” (the development of a tangle of fine capillaries in the area treated), recurrence of spider veins, or very rarely a skin sore from leakage of the solution into the tissues. Aesclera is known for its effectiveness, gentleness to the skin, and lack of pain. It is advised to avoid sun exposure to the treated areas until any discoloration has resolved.

Spider Vein Treatment Results

For most patients, more than one treatment is required; however, with each treatment, the spider veins will begin to disappear and your skin will appear increasingly better. Additional treatments may be needed in the future if you have a tendency to develop spider veins.

Cost of Spider Vein Treatment

$450/treatment session. Compression hose are about $80-100.