If you have unwanted spider veins, you may avoid getting treatment for them because you do not want to undergo surgery and a long recovery period. Thankfully, there are other options such as time-tested and proven sclerotherapy. This is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed right here in our office.
Sclerotherapy is a treatment that destroys the affected vein with the use of a solution. This is usually a saline solution, but Dr. Lee uses Asclera®, which does not contain saline, to increase the patient’s comfort. The solution irritates the vein wall, causing the vein to collapse. The destroyed vein is then gradually absorbed by the body and disappears.
Sclerotherapy with Asclera® is often used for small to medium spider veins that are near the surface of the skin. The procedure is simple. A very thin needle is used to inject the solution directly into the targeted vein. After the Asclera® solution is injected, Dr. Lee may put pressure on the affected vein to make sure it collapses. The blood will naturally flow through healthy veins. You will be asked to wear compression stockings immediately after the procedure to keep the pressure on the treated vein and ensure the best results.
During a consultation with Dr. Lee, your veins may be closely examined. If sclerotherapy is the best treatment for you, there are a few things you must do before the day of the procedure. You may need to avoid certain medications, including over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs, herbs and dietary supplements for up to 72 hours before the procedure. Dr. Lee will let you know what medications you can take and exactly how you can prepare before the procedure.
After the treatment, you will be able to drive yourself home. Walking is encouraged because it helps the leg muscles push the blood through the healthy veins. You will also need to wear compression stockings for a few days after your treatment. Depending on your goals and needs, you may need multiple treatments, each spaced about a month apart, for best results.
Sclerotherapy has been in use for decades, and it is one of the most trusted procedures available when it comes to getting rid of unwanted veins. Your spider veins should disappear a few weeks after treatment. The treated veins will not reappear, but you may need to modify your lifestyle in order to avoid developing the problem in other veins. Patients who choose spider vein removal with Asclera® sclerotherapy, however, can generally enjoy their results for many years.
If you want to get rid of your spider veins, consider sclerotherapy at the office of Mimi Lee M.D. Our doctor is at the forefront of minimally invasive vein treatments and uses care and expertise to help you tackle your vein problems. Contact our office in Little Rock today to schedule your first appointment and learn more.