Sclerotherapy

Microsclerotherapy is a technique of injecting thread or spider veins with a special substance known as a "sclerosant" that causes swelling in the vein's wall.

If the vein is small enough, the swelling will destroy the vein over several weeks, making it much less noticeable or even invisible.

Microsclerotherapy is normally used for the treatment of leg thread veins and is rarely used for the treatment of facial veins owing to the small possibility of scarring that can occur.

A single blood vessel may have to be injected more than once, depending on its size.

Most patients require between 2 and 6 treatments at 4 to 8 week intervals.

It is common for around 75 percent or more of your veins to vanish, but you should be aware that 100 percent disappearance of all veins is rare. Some pain or burning at the injection site may occur following injections.

For a month or so, the vessels may appear more prominent. The injection sites look like insect bites, and may occasionally itch. The veins gradually begin to fade and continue to improve for up to 8 weeks. After this time, a brownish discolouration of the skin may continue and may take many months to fade away. Post-treatment advice may include:

• keeping the compression stocking dry and you may be asked to try and raise your legs as much as possible during the first 24 hours
  
• removing the stocking and cotton wool pads after 24-48 hours. Short walks are fine, but try to avoid vigorous exercise for a few days
  
• wearing your compression stockings if advised, for four weeks after the last treatment
  
• avoiding Aspirin-based painkillers and replacing them with paracetamol for six weeks after the last treatment
  
• contact your practitioner immediately if you notice any signs of infection or a sudden increase in pain
  

Contact JM Cosmetic Clinic

If you would just like a chat or would like to book a consultation, which is always free of charge, please call 07861 677859 or email info@jmcosmeticclinic.co.uk.