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What are spider veins? Spider veins are small purple and red veins that generally show up on the thighs, ankles and calves. Although unsightly, they can also cause itching, aching and night cramps and many women (the most common suffers of spider veins) will seek cosmetic surgery to relieve their discomfort.
Sclrotherapy is one way to remove spider veins. This procedure does not entail surgery, but is a series of injections. Using small needles, the plastic surgeon will inject a solution into the vein. The solution works as an irritant effectively closing off the vein sealing it tight. The procedure takes about 15-20 minutes and can be done in the doctor’s office.
Support stockings are ordered for the patient to wear for a period of around two weeks. The removal of spider veins is generally done on a monthly basis, especially if the patient has a lot of spider veins to be removed.
There are side effects to sclerotherapy, so be aware of this: - Burning and itching afterward at the injection site is common although generally fading within a half-hour of the procedure.
- Muscle cramps, also temporary may occur
- Skin discoloration, brown stains may appear at the site where the veins were packed off and sealed. This will generally fade over a period of a few months, although in some cases the discoloration becomes permanent.
- Where the needles have gone in a small network of red veins will appear. These veins will vanish over time or with additional treatments of Sclerotherapy.
- Bruising is common, fading over a period of a few weeks.
- Recurring varicose veins.
- Blisters where the needles went in.
- Small burns or ulcers may appear at the injection site.depending on what type of solution was used for the treatment.
- Phlebitis that can be controlled with mild exercise, support stockings and aspirin.
- Bumps may appear that are quite tender. These bumps will need to be drained in order for the patient to seek relief.
Price will vary depending on how many veins are being treated and how many months the plastic surgeon wants the patient to schedule with him.
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