If you’re bothered by the appearance of spider veins or twisted, bulging veins in your legs, you may be a candidate for sclerotherapy. At The Center for Dermatology Cosmetic & Laser Surgery, David Bank, MD, and the skilled dermatologists offer comprehensive care for damaged veins. They customize a treatment plan using sclerotherapy to destroy the damaged vein without the risk of surgery. Call the dermatology office in Mount Kisco, New York, to schedule a sclerotherapy consultation.

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What is sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a treatment option for varicose and spider veins that result from valve dysfunction in the veins.

In a healthy vein, valves open to let blood flow through in one direction. When the valve weakens or fails, blood can flow backward and pool in the vein. This causes the vein to enlarge and become more noticeable on your skin. 

Spider veins are the small, superficial veins that can develop anywhere on the body. Varicose veins are larger, bulging veins that are most common in the legs.

Sclerotherapy involves injections of a chemical agent into a damaged vein to seal it off. Blood in the vein will reroute to nearby, healthy veins naturally.

Why would I need sclerotherapy?

You may need sclerotherapy to treat damaged veins that cause symptoms and affect your quality of life, such as:

  • Pain
  • Aching
  • Swelling
  • Burning
  • Night cramps

Many people also elect to treat spider veins and varicose veins to improve the aesthetic appearance of their face and legs, even if they’re not experiencing any uncomfortable symptoms.

What can I expect during sclerotherapy?

During sclerotherapy, the providers at The Center for Dermatology Cosmetic & Laser Surgery use alcohol to clean the skin near the targeted vein.

Then, using a fine needle, they deliver the chemical agent into the affected vein. Over time, the chemical irritates the lining of the vein, causing it to close up. After blood reroutes to nearby veins, the treated vein shrinks, and your body absorbs it naturally.

Immediately after the procedure, your provider puts pressure on the area and massages it to keep blood out of the treated vein. It’s common to have some redness and bruising at the injection site for a few days.

To prevent additional varicose veins and spider veins from developing in your legs, you need to wear compression stockings for 72 hours to help improve your blood circulation.

Find out if you’re a candidate for sclerotherapy to treat unsightly varicose or spider veins by calling The Center for Dermatology Cosmetic & Laser Surgery today.