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SCLEROTHERAPY

Sclerotherapy is often considered the treatment of choice to effectively treat varicose and spider veins at WellMedica Aesthetic & Anti-Aging Medicine in Reston, Virginia.

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WHAT IS SCLEROTHERAPY?

Sclerotherapy is a simple, noninvasive treatment that effectively treats varicose and spider veins. It’s often considered the treatment of choice for small varicose veins. Spider veins can be annoying and upsetting, but usually are not a sign of a serious medical condition. If you’re feeling self-conscious or refuse to wear shorts due to spider veins, it may be time to discuss your concerns with Dr. Dima Ali. It is common for both men and women to get their spider veins treated for cosmetic reasons. As we age, our veins can become more noticeable, and our skin gets thinner. Getting rid of spider veins can boost your confidence, reveal clearer skin, and help you feel younger.

Sclerotherapy is a popular treatment method for eliminating varicose veins and superficial telangiectasias (spider veins). During treatment, a solution called a “sclerosing agent” is injected into the veins, causing them to collapse. The procedure may also remedy the bothersome symptoms associated with spider veins, including aching, burning, swelling, and night cramps. Sclerosing agents that are mild enough to use in small veins have made sclerotherapy predictable and quite painless.

 

Women and men of any age may be good candidates for sclerotherapy, but the typical patient is 30 years or older. Spider veins in men are not nearly as common as they are in women. Men who do have spider veins often do not consider them to be a problem, as hair conceals the appearance of the veins. However, sclerotherapy treatment is just as effective for men, and Dr. Ali has performed the procedure on several male patients.

 

The number of treatments needed differs from patient to patient, depending on the extent of varicose and spider veins present.

The cost of sclerotherapy starts at $450 per session. There are a variety of factors that determine the overall price. To ensure that your sclerotherapy procedure is affordable, we accept a variety of payment methods including special financing plans.

Before your sclerotherapy procedure, we will ask you to arrive at least 10minutes prior to your appointment time, so that we can review the post-procedure instructions with you and obtain your consent for treatment. The procedure typically takes up to 20 - 30 minutes. Things to avoid prior sclerotherapy treatment include:

  • Do not apply any lotions, creams, or self-tanners on your legs the day of the procedure.
  • During your consultation, please make sure you mention any blood thinners you may be taking, like Aspirin or vitamins, that will result in bruising. Dr. Dima will determine whether you should discontinue medication prior to treatment.

Typically, after your sclerotherapy session, the veins may appear to be worse until they begin to fade. A few sessions are usually required to achieve optimal results, usually spaced 3 - 6 weeks apart. Bruising after each session can last up to 6 weeks. You should also be aware that the procedure treats only those veins that are currently visible; it does nothing to prevent new veins from surfacing in the future. Before you decide to have sclerotherapy treatment, think carefully about your expectations, and discuss them with Dr. Dima Ali.

Things to do after sclerotherapy treatment include:

  • Postpone shaving the day of the treatment until the following day.
  • Avoid hot tubs, saunas, and long hot baths for one week following treatment.
  • You will wear your compression hose for at least seven days following your procedure, only during the day.
  • You may be prescribed guards against clots by Dr. Dima post-treatment.
  • Exercise is an important part of the healing process. 20-minute walks or bike rides once or twice a day is best for the healing process.
  • Avoid any sun exposure for four weeks after your treatment.
  • Avoid traveling on airline flights and car ride longer than 2 hours for at least three weeks after sclerotherapy.

Serious medical complications from sclerotherapy are extremely rare when a qualified practitioner performs the procedure. However, there is always a possibility that they may occur. Risks include the formation of blood clots in the veins, severe inflammation, adverse allergic reactions to the sclerosing solution, and skin injury that could leave a small but permanent scar.

A common cosmetic complication is pigmentation irregularity – brownish splotches on the affected skin that may take months to fade. Another problem that can occur is “Telangiectatic matting,” or the appearance of fine reddish blood vessels around the treated area, which will require further injections or treatment with the Vbeam laser. The risks associated with treatment reduce when you work with a qualified doctor who is well-versed in the different types of sclerosing agents available. Dr. Dima Ali will decide which sclerosing agent is appropriate for your condition.

Sclerotherapy is a noninvasive, less risky, and effective treatment for spider and varicose veins compared to surgery. It is considered the treatment of choice for small veins.

I went in being insecure about the veins on my leg, and Dr. Dima is a miracle worker! My legs feel thinner, and I can barely see the veins. I would highly recommend coming here!