Sclerotherapy 

Spider veins as they are often referred to occur in both men and women. There is no proven method of preventing these veins, wearing support stockings, maintaining a normal weight, regular exercise and avoiding prolonged standing may help, but once visible, sclerotherapy is an extremely effective treatment to eliminate them. Although these small veins are connected to the larger venous system, they are not an essential part of it.

What is Sclerotherapy?
It is a non-surgical method used to treat thread veins in the legs. The process involves a trained clinician injecting a small amount of sclerosing solution directly into the veins with a tiny needle..

Is it safe?
Treatment has been performed for many years, and has an excellent safety profile when carried out by a specialist trained Doctor/Nurse with experience in this field. 

How does it work?
A small needle is inserted into the vein and the solution is slowly injected, causing it to empty of blood. The solution irritates the lining of the vessel, causing it to swell and stick together. There appears to be an immediate clearing but the veins will darken as they shrivel and disappear over 6 to 12 weeks.

Does it hurt?
The micro injections are almost painless, and despite some redness and swelling after treatment, recovery is quick and painless. Some patients may experience a mild burning sensation during the injection and itching of the skin following treatment. If you have any concerns, talk to one of our specialists before your sclerotherapy .

What can be expected following treatment?
The veins will appear darker and inflamed after treatment, and may take up to 12 weeks to completely resolve. After one treatment you can expect a 70% improvement in the cosmetic appearance, but several treatments may be required for extensive areas.

Possible side effects
Following injections, the skin will be inflamed and may be tender or itchy for a few days. As a result of the inflammation, patients can have hyper pigmentation staining which may resolve spontaneously, or be treated using intense pulsed light technology. Most of the side effects are minor, but very rarely a small breakdown in the skin may occur, which may take several weeks to resolve. If you have unexpected pain following treatment, please contact the clinic.

Who is not suitable?
This treatment would not be suitable for large varicose veins. It would not be used during pregnancy or breast feeding, in patients with uncontrolled diabetes, immobile patients, or where there is local skin irritation. If you are taking Minocycline tablets or similar antibiotics, you may not be suitable for treatment. Similarly Aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medication can cause excessive bruising and we may ask you to stop medication immediately before and after treatment.

If you are taking any medication, it is best to inform the staff at our UK sclerotherapy clinics before your procedure. This will reduce the risk of your procedure being delayed.

Care following treatment
Pretty Woman Cosmetic Clinic team   advise individuals to keep mobile following treatment, and wear support tights for 3 days and nights. Heavy exercise should be avoided for the first 3 days. Saunas, Jacuzzis and hot baths should also be avoided. Aspirin and Ibuprofen should not be taken immediately before or after treatment as this may cause increased bruising.

Repeat treatments can be carried out every six weeks until the desired results have been achieved. If you require a follow up treatment, contact the team at our Pretty Woman Cosmetic Clinic. 

However, some very large veins or varicose veins may need to be dealt with prior to treatment on the thread veins. You will be advised during consultation if a consultation with the vascular surgeon is necessary.