Sclerotherapy Vein Treatment in New York

Sclerotherapy is a chemical injection² that causes targeted veins to collapse and permanently close them. The blood flow is directed to nearby veins and is used for those that have spider veins. Sclerotherapy can treat as many as 50 to 80 percent of the injected vein after several treatments, which are eliminated at each injection session.

Patient’s pain tolerances vary greatly. Most people find minimal discomfort and even those who are sensitive or afraid of injections rarely experience anything more than just discomfort.

Total erasing of spider veins is usually achieved, however, the results are slightly different depending on the size of the vessels being injected. Some vessels may require more than one injection weeks apart, while others require only one treatment session.

Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to treat a variety of conditions related to blood vessels and the lymphatic system. It involves injecting a solution, called a sclerosant, directly into the affected vein or vessel. The solution causes the vein or vessel to scar, which ultimately leads to its collapse and disappearance. Sclerotherapy is commonly used to treat spider veins, smaller varicose veins, reticular veins in the legs and venous malformations. This minimally invasive procedure is typically performed in an office setting and has a quick recovery time. While results can vary, most patients see improvement within a few weeks of treatment.

During sclerotherapy, a solution is injected directly into the damaged vein, causing it to shrink and fade away over time. This solution irritates the lining of the vein, causing it to scar and eventually be absorbed by the body. Multiple treatments may be necessary for complete elimination of the vein, but the procedure is generally safe, fast and minimally invasive. Sclerotherapy is not a home remedy and should only be performed by a qualified board certified dermatologist. If you have questions or concerns about sclerotherapy, we recommend scheduling a consultation with Dr. Rokhsar, a double-board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon, who has had success with Sclerotherapy in thousands of patients.

Sclerotherapy can be performed by various medical professionals, including dermatologists, vascular radiologists, gastroenterologists, and urologists. However, for leg veins it is important to seek care from a board certified dermatologist, as they are best trained to deal with leg veins.

The cost of sclerotherapy can vary widely depending on various factors, including the number of veins treated, the severity of the condition, the provider’s level of experience, and geographical location. Most patients require multiple sessions to achieve optimal results, and the number of sessions required can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s individual goals.

Here are some general guidelines on what to avoid after sclerotherapy:

• Strenuous exercise: Avoid high-impact exercises like running, sprinting, jogging, and long-distance running for at least two weeks after the procedure. Light exercises like walking, hiking, yoga, and flexibility training are generally fine.
• Prolonged inactivity: While it’s important to avoid strenuous exercise, it’s equally important to remain active. Take frequent walks during the first few days after the procedure to encourage proper circulation.
• Direct sun exposure: Avoid direct sun exposure on the treated area for a month after the procedure. If you need to be in the sun, use a high SPF sunscreen.
• Hot tubs and Jacuzzi: Avoid hot tubs and Jacuzzi for about a week after the procedure.
• Compression stockings: Wear compression stockings as directed by your doctor.
• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications: Avoid taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like aspirin and ibuprofen for 48 hours after the procedure.
• Avoid hot yoga for about a week after the procedure.

While the procedure is generally safe and well-tolerated, there are potential side effects that you should be aware of.

Some of the most common side effects of sclerotherapy include bruising, swelling, redness, and itching at the injection site. These side effects are usually mild and will resolve on their own within a few days to a few weeks. In some cases, you may also experience hives, skin sores, or darkened skin in the treated area.

Less common side effects of sclerotherapy can include the formation of small blood clots or the development of larger, lumpy veins in the treated area. These side effects are usually temporary and will resolve over time, but you should discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

Typically, results of sclerotherapy for small varicose veins or spider veins can be seen within 3 to 6 weeks, while larger veins may take up to 3 to 4 months. Multiple treatments may be necessary to achieve the desired results. The longevity of the treatment varies depending on the type of veins you have, with spider veins usually gone within five years and varicose veins lasting up to two years. However, this may vary depending on several factors such as family history, prior pregnancies, and genetic predisposition to spider and varicose veins.

A spider vein, also known as telangiectasia, is a condition in which small, damaged blood vessels appear just beneath the surface of the skin. These blood vessels typically have a red, blue or purple color and can appear in clusters resembling spider webs or tree branches. Spider veins are often found on the legs or face, and while they may cause some discomfort, they are typically harmless. Increased pressure in the veins is the primary cause of spider veins, which may be due to genetics, hormonal changes, pregnancy, or prolonged periods of standing or sitting.

Spider veins can be flat or slightly raised and often appear as thin, small lines that are blue, red, or purple in color. These veins can cluster together, creating a spiderweb or tree branch-like pattern on the skin. Spider veins typically develop in the legs or face, but they can occur anywhere on the body. While they can cause some discomfort, they are usually painless. Spider veins are different from varicose veins, which are larger, bulging veins that protrude from the skin’s surface.

One of the most commonly used treatments for spider veins is sclerotherapy, which involves injecting a chemical solution directly into the affected vein, causing it to scar and ultimately collapse. This treatment is minimally invasive and typically requires no downtime, although several sessions may be needed to achieve optimal results.

Another effective treatment for spider veins is laser therapy. This involves using a laser to heat and destroy the spider veins, which then slowly fade over time. Radiofrequency ablation is also a newer treatment option that is gaining popularity due to its nearly flawless track record, minimal pain and discomfort, negligible risk of complications, and lack of downtime.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also help prevent spider veins from forming or worsening. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding prolonged periods of standing or sitting, and wearing compression stockings to improve blood flow. Sunscreen use can also help prevent spider veins on the face, particularly in those with fair skin.

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that can occur anywhere in the body, but most commonly affect the veins in the legs. They are typically swollen, raised, and can appear bluish or purple. Varicose veins occur when the valves in the veins weaken or malfunction, causing blood to pool and the veins to stretch and bulge. Standing or walking for long periods, as well as genetics, can increase your risk of developing varicose veins. While they are not considered a serious medical condition, they can be uncomfortable and lead to more serious problems if left untreated.

For many people, varicose veins are simply a cosmetic concern. However, for others, they can cause aching pain, discomfort, and other symptoms. Commonly reported symptoms include a dull ache, throbbing, itching, cramping, and a feeling of heaviness in the legs. Varicose veins can also cause swelling, skin discoloration, and ulcers if left untreated. Leg pain due to varicose veins can also affect quality of sleep. Varicose veins are a sign of underlying vein disease or venous insufficiency, which occurs when vein valves malfunction and cause blood to pool. In addition to pain, varicose veins can also increase the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis or a pulmonary embolism, which can cause leg pain and swelling and is a serious medical condition.

Varicose veins are usually harmless and merely unsightly, there are cases where they may be a cause for concern. When painful signs and symptoms of varicose veins occur, they might include an achy or heavy feeling in the legs, burning, throbbing, muscle cramping, and swelling in the lower legs, worsened pain after sitting or standing for a long time, itching around one or more of the veins, changes in skin color around a varicose vein, skin discolorations, and ulcers.

If you experience an increase in swelling or pain in your legs, this may be a sign of a serious problem, especially if these symptoms come on suddenly. Another sign of worsening symptoms is if your skin becomes discolored, turns brown or red, and becomes hot or painful. Varicose veins are often a sign of underlying vein disease, also known as venous insufficiency. Vein disease occurs when damaged vein valves cause blood to pool within the legs. This can result in unpleasant or painful symptoms and can also increase your risk of developing dangerous conditions like blood clots and venous ulcers.

If you have varicose veins that are causing you pain or discomfort, or if the skin over your veins is sore and irritated, it’s recommended that you speak to a board-certified medical professional.

Varicose veins can cause discomfort and pain that may interfere with sleep. To help alleviate these symptoms and sleep better, there are several tips you can follow. First, aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week, such as walking, swimming, or biking. Eating a healthy diet can also help reduce varicose vein symptoms. When it comes to sleep position, try sleeping on your left side as the body’s largest vein, the vena cava, is on the right side and sleeping on your left side can help blood flow better. Elevating your legs by propping them up with a pillow or bed wedge pillow can also reduce swelling and pain. You can also try sleeping on your back with your legs elevated or on your stomach with your head turned to one side. Avoid high heels and tight hosiery, and change your sitting or standing position regularly. Additionally, try to maintain a healthy weight and consider wearing compression stockings.

Firstly, it’s important to avoid long periods of standing or sitting, and to change your position regularly throughout the day. This helps encourage blood flow and prevents blood from pooling in your veins. Exercise is also important in preventing varicose veins. Low-impact exercises like walking, jogging, and yoga are great options that can help improve circulation in your legs.

Maintaining a healthy diet is also key in preventing varicose veins. Eating a high-fiber, low-salt diet and drinking plenty of water can help reduce swelling and prevent water retention in your body. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce stress on your legs and prevent new varicose veins from forming.

The first step is to maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly, which will improve blood flow in the legs. Avoiding long periods of standing or sitting, and elevating your legs when resting can also help. Additionally, wearing compression stockings can help to keep blood from pooling in the legs. Eating a healthy diet with plenty of fiber and avoiding salty foods can reduce water retention in the body, which can contribute to the development of varicose veins. If these measures are not effective, there are medical treatments available, such as sclerotherapy and laser therapy, which can reduce the appearance of varicose veins.

Varicose veins can be treated through conservative management or interventional therapies. Conservative management includes exercise, weight management, and avoiding salt. Interventional therapies include thermal ablation, endovenous sclerotherapy, surgery, laser treatment, and micro or stab phlebectomy. The size of the varicose veins can determine the appropriate treatment option. Larger varicose veins can be treated with ligation and stripping, laser treatment, or radiofrequency treatment, while smaller varicose veins and spider veins can be treated with sclerotherapy or laser therapy on the skin.