Thread veins or 'spider veins' as they are commonly known can be easily treated with Sclerotherapy. The treatment involves injecting a harmless sclerosing solution through a micro-fine needle directly into the veins. The solution acts as an irritant causing the vein to collapse and gradually disappear. After each treatment the veins will narrow and eventually completely disappear.
Spider veins - known in the medical world as telangiectasias or sunburst varicosities, are small, thin, superficial veins that lie close to the surface of the skin. Sclerotherapy can only treat those veins that are currently visible and cannot permanently alter the venous system or prevent new veins occurring.
There is little or no pain - however an anaesthetic cream may be applied prior to treatment if requested.
How many treatment sessions are required?
This can vary dependent on the patient and the type of vein being treated. Normally 2 or more sessions are usually required to achieve optimal results with a 4 week break between treatments.
How long does the treatment take?
Most Sclerotherapy treatments take approximately 20 - 30 minutes.
Are there any side effects to a Sclerotherapy treatment?
These can include slight bruising or swelling around the treated area - however this will disappear over a few days.