Sclerotherapy: The Best Option to Eliminate Spider Veins

Spider veins can be uncomfortable and unsightly but how can you treat them? At Erwin Dermatology, we offer sclerotherapy—a minimally invasive, safe, and effective treatment that can lead the veins to eventually fade away.

What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are swollen and enlarged veins that can be seen through the skin. They are usually purple or blue and often raised above the surface of the skin. They are most common in the legs and feet and can cause pain, discomfort, and skin discoloration. We do NOT treat varicose veins at Erwin Dermatology.

What Are Spider Veins?

Spider veins are much smaller than varicose veins. They are typically red, blue, or purple and appear close to the surface of the skin. The veins are often on the thighs, calves, ankles, and face.

What Is Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is an injection therapy that treats spider veins. The procedure involves injecting a solution directly into the vein, which causes it to collapse and eventually fade from view. It is minimally invasive, safe, and highly effective.

During the Sclerotherapy Procedure

First, your doctor will make sure that you’re a good candidate for sclerotherapy by assessing the size, shape, and location of your spider veins. Then, the doctor will clean the area around the vein and inject the sclerosing solution into the vein. It’s typically painless. This solution causes the vein to collapse and seal shut. The body will then absorb the vein, and over time, it will fade from view.

The sclerosing solution causes the vein walls to stick together, scar, and ultimately, obstruct the flow of blood. This leads the vein to shrink and eventually disappear. The solution is usually a combination of saline and an FDA-approved medication.

Sclerotherapy Recovery

After the procedure, it is normal to experience some minor bruising and swelling. It should go away within a few weeks.

It can take up to three months for the veins to completely disappear. But in some cases, multiple treatments may be necessary to achieve the desired results.

Most people can return to their normal activities on the same day of the procedure. We just recommend not working out or doing a lot of standing following the treatment. Elevate your legs or the treatment area to promote blood flow.

Benefits of Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy offers many benefits for those suffering from spider veins. Some of the key advantages include:

Minimally Invasive

Sclerotherapy is a minimally-invasive procedure that can be done in a doctor’s office. There is no need for anesthesia or a long recovery period.

Safe

Sclerotherapy has been safely used for over a century. Your doctor will work with you to determine the best solution for your particular case and walk you through the procedure to ensure you’re comfortable.

Effective

Sclerotherapy is highly effective and considered one of the most successful treatments for spider veins. In most cases, the veins will gradually fade over time.

Schedule A Consultation

If you are suffering from spider veins, sclerotherapy may be the best option for you. At Erwin Dermatology in El Campo, TX, our experienced staff can answer any questions and concerns you may have. To schedule your consultation today, call us at 979-543-9933.