Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure that has gained popularity over the past few years for its ability to effectively address and remove problematic veins. Sclerotherapy is a procedure whereby a special solution is injected into the offending vein. The result is that the blood vessel’s lining gets irritated. It swells and then sticks together. With time, scar tissue develops, and the offending vein fades away from view.
Interestingly, sclerotherapy is not a new procedure. Medical professionals have been effectively using this procedure since the 1930s. Before you can have this procedure performed, you’ll need to sit down and talk with our medical professionals. They will examine you and determine your candidacy for this medical procedure.
Some of the things that they are going to look at as they examine you is your general health and where the spider veins that you want to have treated are located. Based on their evaluation, they will determine whether you are a good candidate for sclerotherapy.
If the vein that you want to have treated could be used in the future in connection with heart bypass surgery, it would generally not be considered for this procedure unless a medical professional has determined that this vein is already unusable. In addition, if a deeper problem is present, such as a faulty valve in the vein, it also may be important to address the deeper problem first.
Sclerotherapy is performed by injecting the solution right into the vein. Overall, it is a relatively simple procedure. It usually only takes between 15 and 20 minutes. The procedure can be performed inside our office, and you are able to leave our office and return to daily activities immediately in most cases. Depending on the location and the size of the vein that is being treated, our medical professional may request that you stay away from aerobic activities for a few days after the procedure. In addition, it is important to wear compression hose for 7 days following the procedure.
Before the sclerotherapy procedure, it is recommended that you avoid certain prescription and over-the-counter medications. The list of medications to avoid will be provided to you by the medical professional performing your procedure.
In addition to pharmaceutical and over-the-counter drugs, our doctor may recommend that you stay away from certain dietary supplements and herbs. In the days leading up to the procedure, no lotion should be applied to the area that is going to be treated since this can negatively affect the results of the procedure.
All of these details will be discussed with you during an initial consultation at Torrey Pines Dermatology & Laser Center in La Jolla. Our team of experts will be happy to address any questions or concerns you may have as they determine if sclerotherapy is right for you. Our office proudly serves the San Diego and surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule your appointment to learn more.
