The word ‘sclerotherapy’ is a mouthful, and sometimes strange-sounding procedures make us a little nervous. In fact, sclerotherapy is a tried-and-true treatment method for many symptoms of vascular disease for health and cosmetic effect. Sclerotherapy is continually updated with the latest technologies, and it is fully FDA approved.
As our Chicago vein specialist explains, sclerotherapy involves the injection of a chemical irritant, or sclerosant, into the diseased vein. In response, the vein collapses and seals shut. Aesthetically, the result is an immediate decrease in the size of the vein. The vein, which is no longer functional, will eventually be reabsorbed into the body.
Does sclerotherapy hurt?
Minimally. Sclerotherapy is a non-invasive procedure which only requires a few injections. It is conducted under a doctor’s supervision, with ultrasound guidance to allow them to see the veins below the surface of the skin. This procedure does not require local anesthesia.
Depending on the number of veins which need treatment, the entire process may take as little as ten minutes. Afterward, patients are often advised to wear a leg wrap or compression stocking on the affected leg. Besides this, recovery time is very brief – patients are able to walk immediately after the procedure, and can return to work the next day.
Will my spider veins or varicose veins come back?
Of course, if the underlying causes of the vein disease – obesity, lack of exercise, prolonged periods sitting or standing, smoking – are not addressed, it’s possible you may develop more vascular problems. However, sclerotherapy is not only effective at treating diseased veins, but it can also help prevent certain forms of vein disease from reoccurring.
Sclerotherapy is safe, effective, non-invasive, and pain-free. It’s one of the many effective procedures practiced by our skilled spider vein doctor in Chicago. So if you seek spider vein treatment or varicose vein treatment in Chicago, don’t hesitate to call Chicago Vein Care Center at 773-283-7887 today.