Millions of women are bothered by spider veins - those small yet unsightly clusters of red, blue or purple veins that most commonly appear on the thighs, calves and ankles. In fact, it's estimated that at least half of the adult female population is plagued with this common cosmetic problem.
If you're considering sclerotherapy to improve the appearance of your legs, this brochure will give you a basic understanding of the procedure - when it can help, how it's performed and what results you can expect.
Women of any age may be good candidates for sclerotherapy, but most fall in the 30-to-60 category.
You should also be aware that the procedure treats only those veins that are currently visable; it does nothing to permanently alter the venous system or prevent new veins from surfacing in the future.
Sclerotherapy of spider veins is a relatively simple procedure that requires no anesthesia, so it will be performed in an outpatient setting, most likely your doctor's office.
A typical sclerotherapy session is relatively quick, lasting only about 15 to 45 minutes. Approximately one injection is administered for every inch of spider vein - anywhere from five to 40 injections per treatment session.
You should be aware that your treated veins will look worse before they begin to look better. When the compression dressings are removed, you will notice bruising and reddish areas at the injection sites. The bruises will diminish within one month. In many cases, there may be some residual brownish pigmentation which may take up to a year to completely fade.
Although you probably won't want to wear any leg-baring fashions for about two weeks, your activity will not be significantly limited in any other way from sclerotherapy treatment.
You will be encouraged to walk to prevent clots from forming in the deep veins of the legs..