Thread and Varicose Vein Treatments
Many patients are troubled by the appearance of dilated blood vessels, also called varicose or spider veins, they have a red or blue or purple colour and appear on the surface of the body, particularly the legs. On the face and upper body their character is slightly different to those on the lower body, as are their causes.
These vessels can be unsightly and can produce a dull aching of the legs after prolonged standing. If their presence is distressing, they can be treated by injection of a solution that will cause them to disappear, or at least become much smaller.
A procedure called sclerotherapy is used to treat these blood vessels, in which a solution called a sclerosant is injected, using a very fine needle, directly into the blood vessel. This procedure has been used in various forms for veins since the 1920s. Surface veins are often numerous, widespread and they can require several treatments. Sclerotherapy carries much less risk than surgery and offers the optimum, permanent and painless treatment of this common condition.
The vast majority of the patients are very satisfied if not delighted with the outcome of their treatment and gives them more confidence to wear lighter clothes and expose their legs.
How Sclerotherapy Works
Sclerotherapy involves the injection of a solution via a tiny needle into the vein. This causes the vein to collapse and becomes absorbed by the body.
A few veins may require a second treatment, but adequately treated veins will not re-uccur unless they are extremely large before treatment.
Is Sclerotherapy Right for me?
Many types of dilated blood vessels can be successfully treated with sclerotherapy. The most suitable being the fine red and blue veins on the legs. It can also be used for some larger varicose veins, although surgery may be more appropriate in these cases. Laser vein treatment may be more appropriate for facial viens.
Suitability for treatment will be assessed during your initial consultation.
What to Expect During Sclerotherapy Treatment
Individual veins are injected with a very fine needle. Results can be seen instantly with the vein emptying upon treatment.
This will be followed by slight swelling and reddening around the veins. This reddening usually disappears within a few days.
Some patients experience tenderness, bruising or itching. These effects are usually minor and confined to the area treated.
Multiple veins can be treated during one session, although you may require several sessions to treat veins not accessible during previous treatments and to re-treat larger veins.
Following your treatment, you will be required to wear compression stockings for a few days or possibly weeks. You will also be advised to carry out regular brisk walking. This assists the emptying of the veins and greatly improves the effectiveness.
How Much Does Sclerotherapy Cost?
Treatment costs vary depending upon the area being treated. Schedule a personal consultation for more details.