What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure for getting rid of spider veins. It involves the administration of a chemical substance (also known as sclerosant) directly into the diseased vein. This chemical inflicts direct damage to the inner lining of the vessel, causing the formation of clot in the vein, forcing blood to reroute to healthier veins.
Who is a Good Candidate?
Sclerotherapy is usually recommended for those with spider veins and small varicose veins that are not causing serious problems. It can improve the cosmetic appearance and reduce the pain and other symptoms associated with the affected veins.
What to Expect
At Premier Vein Clinic sclerotherapy is done in-office. Prior to the procedure, you may be advised by the Sclero Specialist to avoid taking certain medications. You will also be instructed not to apply any lotion or topical ointments on the legs before the procedure.
During the procedure, you’ll be lying down with your legs slightly elevated. Our sclero nurse will clean the area to be treated with alcohol and then slowly introduce a fine needle to administer the sclerosant into the vein.
There may be mild discomfort while the fine needle is introduced into the diseased vein. Some patients experience slight cramping or stinging sensation, but this is very brief and only temporary.
After Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is an outpatient procedure, which means you can go home after it’s done. You can get up and walk around (walking is very important after the procedure to prevent formation of blood clots).
You’ll have to wear compression stockings or bandages for about two weeks after the sclerotherapy to maintain the compression on the treated vein. Strenuous activities should also be avoided within this period.
To prevent dark spots on the treated area, you will be advised to avoid sun exposure on the treated areas. It is important to attend any follow-up appointments to determine if you will need more sessions.
At Premier Vein Clinic in Knoxville, our dedicated Sclerotherapy Nurse, Angie, provides FREE vein screenings to assess your condition and determine which treatment method is right for you.
Call (865) 588-8229, or schedule your free vein screening online now.