We often think of lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin as signs of aging, but don’t forget about those tiny clusters of red, purple, and blue squiggly lines on our thighs, calves, and ankles. It’s from their resemblance to a web that they get their name — spider veins.
Most spider veins aren’t painful, except when it comes to how they make you feel when you wear shorts or a bathing suit. They are simply another unfortunate byproduct of getting older.
The good news is that Dr. Lee, who is board-certified in both vascular surgery and general surgery, can get rid of spider veins and small varicose veins with sclerotherapy, one of the many vein and vascular services offered here at L.A. Vein Center.
What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy has been the most effective method for removing spider veins for nearly a century. It’s true. Sclerotherapy was first developed in the 1930s specifically to treat and erase spider veins. It involves injecting a tiny amount of sclerosant solution into the vein. This irritates the vein wall and it closes off. The body then scavenges and removes what’s left over the next few weeks.
Dr. Lee has extensive experience with spider veins, and she feels sclerotherapy is the best solution to remove them.
What are Spider Veins?
Spider veins are small superficial clusters of veins that are close to the skin surface. Because they are carrying dark, de-oxygenated blood, they are visible on the skin surface. They are common in women as they age. There is a genetic component to developing spider veins, as well.
What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are larger than spider veins. They tend to develop as a single vein, rather than the clusters of spider veins. Varicose veins can be large enough that they will push up the skin, creating a raised path on the surface. If you’ve ever seen a mole’s pathway through a Midwest lawn, that’s what varicose veins resemble on the surface skin of the legs. Varicose veins can sometimes be painful. They often are aided in their development by occupations that require the person to be on their feet for long periods of time.
What Causes Spider Veins and Varicose Veins?
Am I a Candidate for Sclerotherapy in Los Angeles?
Sclerotherapy is a simple procedure. It takes just a few minutes for Dr. Lee to treat a series of veins. If you have unsightly spider veins, there aren’t really any restrictions on these procedures. Reactions to the sclerosant are virtually nonexistent.
Sclerotherapy does not work on larger varicose veins, the veins that push the skin upward. Too much sclerosant would be required. These veins must be treated with radiofrequency ablation or with manual vein stripping.
How Many Sclerotherapy Sessions Are Required for Optimal Results?
The number of sclerotherapy sessions you will need depends on:
- The severity of the treated veins
- The size of the veins
- How your body responds to the treatment
On average, patients need to undergo between two and four sessions to see optimal results. However, some may require more or fewer treatments.
Each session is spaced out several weeks apart to allow for healing and assessment. During your consultation, Dr. Lee will outline the number of treatments needed based on your specific condition and goals.
Is Sclerotherapy Effective on Veins in Areas Other Than the Legs?
Sclerotherapy is often used for spider and varicose veins in the legs, but it can also treat veins in other areas. This includes the hands and chest.
Keep in mind that the effectiveness of sclerotherapy may vary depending on the veins’ size, type, and location. Dr. Lee will determine if sclerotherapy is appropriate for non-leg veins during your initial evaluation.
Are There Any Pre-Procedure Instructions I Need To Follow Before Sclerotherapy?
Before undergoing sclerotherapy, Dr. Lee may provide you with some specific pre-procedure instructions. These can include:
- Avoiding medications like aspirin or ibuprofen for at least 48 hours before the treatment (these drugs can increase the risk of bruising).
- Not shaving or applying lotion to the treatment area on the day of your sclerotherapy session.
- Wearing loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment.
- Bringing compression stockings to wear after your session.
How Soon After Sclerotherapy Can I Resume Normal Activities, Including Exercise?
You can usually resume most normal activities, such as walking, immediately after sclerotherapy. In fact, walking can improve circulation and aid in the healing process.
For at least 48 hours after the procedure, you should avoid:
- Strenuous exercise
- Heavy lifting
- Activities that involve prolonged standing
Dr. Lee may also recommend wearing compression stockings for a few days to increase comfort and enhance healing.
Can Sclerotherapy Be Performed on Darker Skin Tones?
Sclerotherapy can be performed on darker skin tones. There may be certain risks, though, such as hyperpigmentation or temporary skin discoloration. These risks are generally higher for patients with darker skin due to increased melanin.
With the proper techniques and post-treatment care, sclerotherapy risks can be significantly minimized. That’s why choosing an experienced provider like Dr. Lee is essential. She is familiar with treating various skin types and knows how to prevent potential complications.
The Benefits of Sclerotherapy
The benefit of sclerotherapy is that you can say goodbye to those unsightly clusters of purple, red, and blue veins on your ankles and calves. Once Dr. Lee injects the veins, they initially diminish dramatically, fully going away in a few weeks as your body scavenges the closed off veins. You’ll love how your legs look.
What Do I Need to Know Before My Sclerotherapy Session?
That these are simple treatments that take just a few minutes. You should have in mind which spider veins you’d like to target, but that’s about it.
What does the Sclerotherapy procedure process look like?
Dr. Lee uses a very fine needle to inject the sclerosant solution, consisting of either Asclera (polidoconol) or STS (sotradecol), directly into the vein or the area of the spider vein cluster. This solution irritates the vein wall, causing it to collapse and close off the vein. This instantly diminishes the appearance of the vein. Over the next few weeks any remaining signs vanish as the body absorbs the now-unused vein.
Any blood that was routed through the vein is instantly rerouted to an adjacent, healthy vein. It takes just a few minutes for Dr. Lee to treat a number of spider veins.
What Our Patients Have to Say
"I received excellent care in a timely and professional manner. Dr Lee and her Team were very kind and caring; they kept me well informed of the procedures I was receiving. I highly recommend Dr. Lee."
To read more patient testimonials, click here!
What is the Recovery Like After Sclerotherapy for Spider Veins?
If Dr. Lee injects a number of spider veins, she’ll likely have you wear compression stockings for a week or so after your session. The compression helps the body begin the process of absorbing the closed off veins. Walking and light exercise is fine immediately after your session. If you’ve had a number of veins treated, you should avoid any strenuous exercise for a few days.
Why Choose L.A. Vein Center?
L.A. Vein Center, led by Dr. Larisse Lee, offers top-tier vein treatments in Los Angeles. Dr. Lee is a board-certified vascular and general surgeon with many accolades for her expertise. She and her dedicated team have received glowing five-star patient reviews since the practice’s founding. This reflects their commitment to personalized care and successful outcomes.
Whether addressing varicose veins or other vascular concerns, L.A. Vein Center combines cutting-edge techniques with compassionate service to deliver optimal results. Choosing us means you will be in the hands of a skilled and trusted professional.
Schedule a Los Angeles Sclerotherapy Consultation
To schedule a consultation or to learn more about Sclerotherapy, contact us today at (818) 325-0400. Our practice serves Sherman Oaks, CA and the surrounding areas.