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Sclerotherapy was developed in the 1920s for the treatment
of spider veins (telangiectasias), small purple and red blood
vessels. Spider veins are hereditary, and while most commonly
found on the thigh or lower leg, can form virtually anywhere
on the leg, from the uppermost region of the thigh to the
ankle. Occasionally, spider veins will appear on the face.
Sclerotherapy has proven to be a very popular nonsurgical
cosmetic procedure.
Technique:
The veins to be treated
are marked while the patient is standing. Larger veins are
usually treated first. A sclerosing solution
is injected into the vein with a micro-needle. The solution
causes the vein to turn white (blanch), and then gradually
disappear. A typical treatment lasts from 30 minutes to an
hour. Injection sclerotherapy can be an excellent alternative
to surgery, provided the patientŪs venous system is not affected.
Benefits:
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No downtime—patients can immediately
resume work and all normal activities. But the patient
is advised to refrain from vigorous activities for
the first 24 hours. |
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Little if any discomfort. |
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A safe, time-proven procedure. |
Other Considerations:
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Complete correction is not expected
on the first treatment. Only about 50 to 70% of the
treated vessels will be permanently gone. 3 to 4 treatments
are generally required for optimal results. |
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Patients may be asked initially to wear
heavy-duty stockings to help keep treated veins closed
and reduce bruising. |
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On occasion, small clots can develop
at the site of the injection. |
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Color changes can occur in the skin
where sclerotherapy has been performed. |
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In some cases, laser treatments may
be an alternative to sclerotherapy. |
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If there is an underlying problem with
the venous system, the veins will recur. |
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Content provided by The
American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).
For advertising info, please contact Terry McGovern terry.mcgovern@latimes.com at (213) 473-2599
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