Varicose Vein Treatment (Sclerotherapy)
Our board-certified Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery experts can help you eliminate varicose veins.
What is sclerotherapy? (Varicose Vein & Spider Vein Treatment)
Varicose and spider veins are common problems associated with leg swelling, a heavy feeling in the legs, and discomfort. In addition to being painful, these veins may impact how you feel about your appearance. Some people may wear clothing that covers their legs or avoid certain activities (like going to the beach) because they feel self-conscious.
Sclerotherapy is an effective treatment that helps reduce the appearance of spider and varicose veins or even completely eliminate them.
Sclerotherapy is when a solution is injected into varicose or spider veins. This solution causes the problematic veins to close and fades the appearance of spider/varicose veins. In 60-80% of people, their veins may disappear completely.
What can you expect?
We will thoroughly examine your nose and blood vessels for the best treatment. All of our treatments are individualized for each patient. Numbing is achieved through ice, a topical numbing cream, or an injection, depending on the blood vessel size and depth. Then, the blood vessel is treated. After treatment, the blood vessels can become more prominent for 48-72 hours, and then gradually, the appearance of the blood vessels is reduced over the course of the next 7-10 days. Typically, it takes 1-2 treatments to see a significant improvement, with larger blood vessels taking between 2-4 treatments.
What can you expect?
Before any procedure, you will have a consultation with our expert cosmetic dermatologists. The physician will listen to you, perform a thorough evaluation, and provide an individualized treatment plan to address your needs and concerns.
During the procedure, the doctor will inject a solution into your veins using a fine needle. The number of injections you will receive depends on the size and number of areas to be treated.
After the procedure, you must wear compression stockings and avoid strenuous activity for approximately two weeks. However, regular activity, such as walking, is encouraged and will help with your healing.
After 3-6 weeks, you will return for a follow-up appointment to assess your healing and whether additional sclerotherapy treatments are needed.
Is sclerotherapy safe?
All procedures carry some risk. However, complications from sclerotherapy are uncommon when performed by board-certified cosmetic dermatologists. The most common side effects are swelling, warmth, or discomfort at the injection site.
Sclerotherapy is not safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Patients who have had blood clots may be candidates for sclerotherapy but will require a careful medical evaluation to ensure the treatment is safe for you.
How to get rid of blood vessels on your nose?
Enlarged blood vessels on the side of the nose or nasal ala are very common. They typically develop in our 30s and 40s and become more prominent. Different treatment options are available, including laser, electrosurgery, and sclerotherapy. Electrosurgery typically works well for enlarged nasal vessels.
Sclerotherapy Before and After
Choose St. Louis Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery
Our Cosmetic Dermatologists can help you explore options to rejuvenate or refine your appearance, helping you look and feel your best. We can also help you improve your complexion and confidence and achieve younger, healthier-looking skin!
We deliver remarkable patient experiences through quality, compassion, and innovation. We are a team that cares deeply about our neighbors and is a positive resource to the community.