Before	After
Before	After

Question:
What are spider and varicose veins?
Answer:
Spider veins, or telangiectasias, are those tiny purple and red blood vessels found most commonly on the thighs or lower legs of women. They are hereditary and can form anywhere on the leg, from the top of the thigh to the ankle. Occasionally spider veins appear on the face. Varicose veins are larger. They can appear raised with a bluish color and can become quite painful. Although spider veins and varicose veins carry blood, they are not part of the venous valve system. Your spider veins and varicose veins can be eliminated permanently through a simple office procedure called Sclerotherapy.

Question:
What is Sclerotherapy?
Answer:
The Sclerotherapy treatment was developed in the 1920's. During the procedure a sclerosing solution is injected into the vein through a micro-needle. The tiny needle generally causes very little pain. The sclerosing solution causes the vein to blanch (turn white), then gradually disappear. A typical treatment may last for 15 to 20 minutes and consist of 70-100 injections. Injection Sclerotherapy may eliminate the need for an invasive surgical procedure.

Question:
Will Sclerotherapy work on my veins?
Answer:
Prior to treatment your doctor will review your complete medical history to determine how long you have had a problem with your veins, and the severity of the problem. They will need to know if the problem is exacerbated by physical activity, and if there has been any prior surgery or treatment on your veins. The doctor will test to determine if the venous system is affected. If it is, surgery may be advised before Sclerotherapy is attempted. If the area to be treated can be saved, Sclerotherapy will be recommended.

Question:
What are the treatments like?
Answer:
The larger veins are usually treated first. Using a tiny syringe fitted with a micro-needle, your physician will inject a small amount of sclerosing agent into the vein. Sclerosing solution displaces the blood within the vein. It then causes irritation to the lining of the vein, making it swell shut. The needle is withdrawn and pressure to the area is applied immediately. While each vein may require several injections, most disappear in two weeks to two months.

Question:
How many treatments will I need?
Answer:
Complete correction of the treated area is not expected on the first treatment. In most cases, about 50-70% of the treated vessels will be gone for good. However, new veins may appear and additional treatments are generally required for optimum results. These treatments may be in three week intervals.