Last week we explored Ionithermie as a way to get summer and bikini ready. But what about other cosmetic problems that keep us in our jeans and off the beach? We’re talking about spider and varicose veins, those unsightly purple ropes and spindles that keep so many women from feeling beautiful in shorts or a bathing suit.
You see, there’s no need to spend this summer hiding under slacks or a mumu. Proven treatment is available and can remove these unsightly veins once and for all. The treatment is called Sclerotherapy and it’s available through MacMed.
What is Sclerotherapy?
According to Web Md,Sclerotherapy is a safe, proven medical procedure that has helped patients eliminate varicose veins and spider veins since the 1930s. It’s generally performed by dermatologists or other physician.
How does sclerotherapy work?
During Sclerotherapy, the treating physician will inject a solution (usually a salt solution) directly into the vein through a very fine needle. The solution irritates the lining of the blood vessel, causing it to swell and the blood inside to clot. Over time, the vessel is transformed into scar tissue and fades from view, never to return.
How does the procedure feel?
As noted above, physicians generally use a very fine needle to minimize irritation. However, you may experience discomfort for one to two minutes after the vein is injected. This is especially true when larger veins are treated.
How long will procedure last?
The procedure itself takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the number of veins injected, as well as their size and location.
How can I prepare?
Prior to treatment, talk to your doctor about all medicines (including over-the-counter drugs, herbs, and dietary supplements) you are taking, as some may not be compatible with treatment.
Doctors also recommend avoiding aspirin, ibuprofen (such as Advil, Motrin, and Nuprin) or other anti-inflammatory drugs for 48-72 hours before sclerotherapy. Tylenol, however, should not affect this procedure.
Finally, no lotion should be applied to the legs before the procedure.
How do I recover?
Recovery is simple. Rest and do not engage in any aerobic activity for a few days after the procedure.
Will I have any side effects?
You may experience immediate mild side effects for a few days, such as itching and raised, red areas at the injection site. You may also experience bruising around the injection site; this can last several days or weeks.
Longer-lasting side effects may include:
- Lumps and hardness in larger veins. These may take several months to dissolve and fade.
- Brown lines or spots at the vein site. These usually disappear within three to six months.
- New, tiny blood vessels at the site of sclerotherapy treatment. These tiny veins can appear days or weeks after the procedure, but should fade within three to twelve months without further treatment.
Contraindications:
Depending on your specific health profile, your physician may decide that Sclerotherapy is not a good option. Health issues that preclude or may preclude treatment include:
- Pregnancy.
- A history of blood clots
- Veins that are potentially usable for future heart bypass surgery.