Sclerotherapy (Vein Therapy)

Spider veins can affect anybody who remains seated or stand for prolonged periods of time. Some people find them unsightly and try to conceal them. The condition is caused by irregular blood flow in particular areas and the subsequent weakening of veins in those areas. Prolonged periods of standing, sitting, and crossing legs can cause the problem. Even the pressure of gaining weight through pregnancy can lead to varicose and spider veins. Sclerotherapy is available from The Melrose Aesthetic Centre as treatment for the condition in improving the overall appearance of the varicose and spider veins.

Science behind Sclerotherapy

The simple and relatively painless, yet effective procedure involves injections of a chemical sclerosing solution into the affected veins. The solution promotes the collapsing and subsequent disappearance of the vein from view. Other healthy veins automatically take over the collapsed vein's functions. Although the treatment cannot prevent new spider veins from forming, it is effective in the treatment of existing problem areas.

How long has it been available?

The treatment has been used with excellent results for more than 75 years.

Effectiveness of the treatment

New advances in medical technology ensure that dermatologists and plastic surgeons can now detect previously undetectable deeper veins easier through ultrasound scanning.

Who is eligible?

Anyone irrespective of age who wants to get rid of unsightly spider or varicose veins can seek treatment for the condition, although people with heart problems, severe allergies, immune deficiency disorders, diabetes, history of blood clotting, and pregnant women should not consider the treatment.

What are the outcomes?

You can expect the treated veins to become lighter within 14-30 days. Repeating of the procedure ensures excellent results. Since it is a safe and non-invasive procedure, requiring no anesthetic, you will be able to return to work immediately after treatment. The veins will at first appear darker after the procedure and then lighten. The results vary from person to person and in some cases the veins may become totally invisible to the eye.

What are the side-effects?

There are no real side effects apart from a light sting sensation when the solution is injected. You may need to wear compression hoses to reduce the time of total recovery for a few days. Swollen ankles or feet and redness surrounding the treated areas may occur. People with a history of allergies and blood clotting should discuss the treatment with their physician before they undergo treatment.

What are the costs?

Costs depend on the severity of the condition, areas treated and number of sessions required.

How long does the treatment take?

The treatment takes between 15 and 45 minutes depending on the areas treated. Hot baths, sun tanning and chlorinated pools should be avoided for the first week after treatment.

How often must the treatment be repeated?

A minimum of two to three sclerotherapy treatments two weeks / 1 month apart are required to ensure the disappearance of the veins from sight.