If you hide your legs or arms because of spider veins, spider vein removal treatment from Rao Dermatology in Manhattan, NY may be the solution for you. Spider veins are named for their web-like formation, which occurs from dilated capillaries.
Getting spider veins removed can restore confidence in your appearance and improve your health. In the past, spider veins had to be surgically removed by vein stripping, but now, sclerotherapy makes spider vein removal less invasive. Here are some common questions about sclerotherapy for spider vein removal.
How Does it Work?
Sclerotherapy does not involve the use of lasers, and it can be done in the dermatologist’s office. This process works by numbing the area with alcohol and injecting a sclerosing solution using small needles. The injections eventually collapse the vein, which converts back to tissue and disappears.
The dermatologist removes the needles after the treatment and applies compression, so blood won’t get into the injected vessel. Depending on the number of veins to remove, the treatment can be fairly quick, and it does not require anesthesia.
Is Sclerotherapy Safe?
Many dermatologists prefer sclerotherapy for spider vein treatment over other procedures because it is considered safe. Sclerotherapy should be performed by an experienced dermatologist to reduce issues. Serious complications, such as allergies, after this treatment are rare, and itching and tenderness disappear quickly.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Sclerotherapy is recommended for people with small to medium purplish or bluish veins visible on the skin. When you go for your first visit, the dermatologist will evaluate your overall health. They may advise you to stop drinking alcohol and smoking, to stop taking certain medications, or wait until after the birth of a baby before treatment. If you have a history of blood clotting, heart bypass surgery, or cardiovascular disease, you may not be a good candidate.
What Can You Expect After Treatment?
You may need to wear compression garments prescribed by the doctor for at least one week, and you usually don‘t have to sleep in them. You may take them off for bathing, but avoid water that is too hot and saunas, to avoid dilating the veins. You will also have to avoid aerobic activity for several days. The dermatologist will check your progress at different intervals.
Untreated spider veins can lead to health issues, such as ulcers, clots, and discoloration. Contact Rao Dermatology in Manhattan, NY today to schedule a consultation for spider vein removal!
