Sclerotherapy (Spider Veins)

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. The introduction of sclerosing agents that are mild enough to be used in small veins has made Sclerotherapy predictable and relatively painless. In this rather simple procedure, veins are injected with a sclerosing solution, which causes them to collapse and fade from view. The procedure may also remedy the bothersome symptoms associated with spider veins, including aching, burning, swelling and night cramps.

What are spider veins?
Spider veins, known in the medical world as telangiectasias or sunburst varicosities, are small and thin veins that lie close to the surface of the skin. Although these superfine veins are connected with the larger venous system, they are not an essential part of it.

Am I a candidate for Sclerotherapy?
A number of things are considered when deciding if you are a good candidate for Sclerotherapy. Women of any age can be a good candidate, but most fall in the range between 30 to 60. In some women, spider veins may become prevalent very early on in the teen years. For others, the veins may not become obvious until they reach their 40s.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you may be advised to postpone Sclerotherapy treatment. In most cases, spider veins that surface during pregnancy will disappear on their own within three months after the baby is born. Also, because it’s not known how sclerosing solutions may effect breast milk, nursing mothers are usually advised to wait until after they have stopped breastfeeding.

During your consultation with Dr. Solomon, he will decide if you are a good candidate for Sclerotherapy, and if not, what other options you may have.

Can men get spider veins?
Spider veins in men aren’t nearly as common as they are in women. Men who have spider veins often don’t consider them to be a cosmetic problem because the veins are usually hidden by hair growth on the leg. However, Sclerotherapy is just as effective for men who seek treatment as it is for women.

What Can I expect?
Sclerotherapy can enhance your appearance and your self confidence. After each session, the veins will appear lighter. Two or more sessions are usually required to achieve optimal results. Sclerotherapy 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.