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The Effect
Today, many plastic surgeons are treating spider veins with sclerotherapy.
In this rather simple procedure, veins are injected with a sclerosing solution,
which causes them to collapse and fade from view. The procedure may also remedy
the bothersome symptoms associated with spider veins, including aching, burning,
swelling and night cramps.
The Procedure
Sclerotherapy sessions are relatively quick, lasting only about
15 to 45 minutes. Using one hand to stretch the skin taut, your doctor or nurse
will begin injecting the sclerosing agent into the affected veins. Bright, indirect
light and magnification help ensure that the process is completed with maximum precision.
Best Candidates
- Women of any age may be good candidates for sclerotherapy, but most fall in the
30-to-60 category.
- Spider veins in men aren't nearly as common as they are in women. Men who do have
spider veins often don't consider them to be a cosmetic problem because the veins
are usually concealed by hair growth on the leg. However, sclerotherapy is just
as effective for men who seek treatment.
Risks
All surgery carries risk, and you should be fully aware of the medical
risks associated with this procedure before you consent to surgery. Your surgeon
will discuss these risks with you during your consultation, and you are encouraged
to ask questions if there is anything you do not understand. More details about your consultation.
You will be required to sign a consent form before surgery stating that you have
been informed of the risks involved; that you understand those risks; and that you
accept those risks. This is standard hospital protocol and surgery will not be performed
if you do not sign.. More details about the required
forms.
It is your obligation to inform your surgeon of key medical information that may
influence the outcome of your surgery or may increase the level of risk. These include
medications you are taking, history of disease, medical complications, etc.
Risks and risk rates vary from patient to patient depending on a range of factors.
No two people are alike. The risks listed below are possible risks associated
with this type of surgery and are mentioned regardless of how remote the possibility:
Temporary swelling, discomfort.
Lightening of treated skin. Acute sun sensitivity. Increased sensitivity to makeup.
Pinkness or redness in skin that may persist for up to 6 months..
More details about the risks involved in skin treatment.
Treatment
Time required: 15 - 45 minutes
Anesthesia: none
Side effects
Clots forming in the deep veins of the legs.
Recovery time
Although you probably won't want to wear any leg-baring fashions for about two weeks,
your activity will not be significantly limited in any other way from sclerotherapy
treatment.
A one-month healing interval must pass before you may have your second series of
injections in the same site. After each treatment, you will notice further improvement
of your legs' appearance.
Please note that this information should be used only as a guide to your treatment.
All specifics will be discussed with your Physician at your consultation.
If you have questions that are not answered in this website, then please
contact us.
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