Cosmetic Sclerotherapy

1. How many sessions are typically required?

Typically, 2-4 treatment sessions are necessary, but this can vary based on the individual and the extent of the veins being treated.

2. How long is the procedure?

Each session usually lasts between 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the number of veins being treated.

3. How long is the recovery time?

Patients can typically resume their daily activities immediately after the procedure, but it’s common to be advised to wear compression stockings for a couple of days to a few weeks. Strenuous activities, hot baths, or sun exposure might be restricted for a period following the procedure.

4. How long until results are visible?

Visible improvement can often be seen within a few weeks, but optimal results might take a couple of months to be fully apparent.

5. Does insurance cover the procedure?

Insurance coverage varies. If the treatment is considered cosmetic, it is less likely to be covered. However, if it’s medically necessary due to symptoms or complications from the veins, some insurance plans might provide coverage. It’s essential to check with one’s insurance provider for specifics.

6. How painful is it?

The pain level is typically described as mild. Some patients might feel a slight burning or cramping sensation during the injection, but the procedure is generally well-tolerated.

7. What are the risks of sclerotherapy?

Asclera (Polidocanol) Potential risks include allergic reactions, hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin), skin necrosis (rare), pain at the injection site, formation of small blood clots in the treated veins, and inadvertent arterial injection (rare).

Before the Procedure

You will undergo a detailed examination of the veins intended for treatment. This may include visual assessments and palpations to gauge the extent and location of the problematic veins. Proper evaluation is crucial to ensure effective treatment and to plan the sclerotherapy session.

During the Procedure

Your doctor will go over the procedure’s details with you. Here’s a succinct outline of what you can anticipate:

Cosmetic Sclerotherapy is typically conducted in a doctor’s office or clinic setting. Your doctor will be in charge of the treatment. Using a syringe with a fine needle, the doctor will inject a sclerosing solution into the targeted veins. This solution causes irritation to the vein lining, making it swell, stick together, and eventually clot. Over time, the treated veins turn into scar tissue that fades away. As these veins close, blood is naturally redirected to healthier veins.

After the Procedure

Post-treatment, you’ll be allowed to rest and recover. After the injections, the treated area might be compressed with bandages or compression stockings to prevent blood from re-entering the treated veins and to promote healing. Your doctor will recommend walking soon after the procedure to boost blood circulation. However, prolonged standing and rigorous activities might be discouraged for a set duration. Most individuals can return to their daily routines within a short period, often within a day or two. Scheduled follow-up visits will be necessary to check the treatment’s success and decide if further sessions are required.