Leg Veins Specialist

What are Spider and Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are bulging, bluish cords which run just underneath the surface of the skin. These visible swollen, twisted are usually harmless. However, when inflamed they can be tender and can hinder circulation, occasionally causing swollen ankles, itchy skin, and aching in leg or foot. Spider veins are smaller, red, purple, and blue vessels which twist and turn, usually off of a varicose vein. These dilated capillaries look like spider legs, which gave them their name, and are frequently experienced by women, especially those who are pregnant.

What is Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a treatment used to address varicose or spider veins. The procedure utilizes a chemical, sclerosant, to lessen the appearance of the spider and varicose veins. The medication is injected into the veins. The procedure takes any from five to 30 minutes, depending on the amount of veins being addressed. To start the procedure, the specific leg or legs will be raised in order to drain the blood from the the veins. Then, the doctor will start the injections and inject each spider or varicose vein. Lastly, the procedure is completed when the physician applies pressure to the leg or legs in order to stop the blood from returning to the veins before the medication is effective. Compression socks may be provided to ensure that pressure is applied consistently to the legs following the procedure and after the patient leaves the office. 

What Should I Expect After the Procedure?

Sclerotherapy does not customarily require a recovery stage. Patients are generally able to move around and walk once the treatment is finished. Patients should avoid very strenuous activity for at least a couple of days however. They should also keep their legs out of the sun for approximately 14 days. Generally, compression socks will be provided to the patients and for a short time following the procedure patients will need to wear them throughout the day.