SCLEROTHERAPY

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 and obtain your consent for treatment. The procedure typically can take up to 20- 30 minutes. Things to avoid prior sclerotherapy treatment:

• Do not apply any lotions, cream, or self-tanners on your legs the day of the procedure.
• Please make sure you mention during your consultation any blood thinners like aspirin or vitamins that will result in bruising by Dr. Dima to determine whether you should continue medication prior to treatment or not.

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 3-6 weeks apart. Bruising after each session can last up to six 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. So, 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:

• Postpone shaving the day of the treatment until the following day
• Hot tubs, saunas, and long hot baths are not recommended for one week following treatment.
• You will wear your compression hose for at least seven days following your procedure, daytime only.
• You might 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 for at least three weeks after Sclerotherapy and car ride longer than 2 hours after Sclerotherapy.

Serious medical complications from sclerotherapy are extremely rare when a qualified practitioner performs the procedure. However, 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,” fine reddish blood vessels around the treated area, which will require further injections or treatment with the VBeam laser. The risks 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.