What is Sclerotherapy, How Does it Work?
Sclerotherapy is a method of treating one of the most common skin conditions we face: spider veins. These small, thin veins often form in the ankles, calves, and thighs, and can appear purple, blue, and red in color. They often resemble spiderwebs on the skin, and can sometimes even be painful. Spider veins can be caused by certain medications, prolonged standing or sitting, hormonal shifts, weight gain, and heredity.
Sclerotherapy works to reduce the appearance of spider veins and give the skin a healthier aesthetic look. After the skin of the treatment area has been pulled taut, a chemical solution is injected that will ultimately cause the spider veins to be reabsorbed by the body, thereby diminishing their appearance. Depending on the extent of the spider veins, most patients will see results about two to three weeks after treatment.
Laser Vein Therapy
Sclerotherapy can also be treated with laser vein therapy, a non-invasive, virtually painless procedure that uses light energy pulses to eradicate spider veins. The heat and light emitted from the laser causes the spider veins to collapse, and their appearance to fade away. Laser vein therapy typically takes at least two treatment sessions for optimal results, and most patients can resume their normal daily activities immediately after treatment.
Schedule Your Consultation
Contact Dr. Paul M. Friedman for more information on sclerotherapy and vein treatment at our Houston, Texas and New York City-area offices.