Understanding Visual Sclerotherapy
What is Visual Sclerotherapy?
Visual sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that treats spider veins and small varicose veins. It injects a sclerosant solution directly into the affected veins, causing them to collapse and fade over time. This treatment focuses on improving the visual appearance of the skin and alleviating any associated discomfort.
What is the Difference Between Visual Sclerotherapy and Ultrasound Guided Foam Sclerotherapy?
The primary difference between is the use of ultrasound guidance:
- Visual Sclerotherapy: This procedure treats smaller, surface-level spider veins and small varicose veins that are visible to the naked eye. As a result, it does not require ultrasound guidance. Visual sclerotherapy is considered cosmetic, and is not covered by insurance.
- Ultrasound Guided Foam Sclerotherapy: This procedure treats larger, deeper veins that are not visible on the surface. UGFS utilizes ultrasound guidance to accurately inject the sclerosant foam into the affected veins. Ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy is not considered cosmetic, and is covered by most insurance plans.
How Does Visual Sclerotherapy Work?
Treatment usually follows these steps:
- Preparation: Firstly, we clean the treatment area, and help the patient get into a comfortable position.
- Injection: Secondly, we inject a sclerosant solution directly into the spider veins using a fine needle. Then the solution irritates the lining of the veins.
- Vein Closure: The irritation causes treated veins to collapse. Afterward, the collapsed veins gradually fade over time, resulting in clearer, smoother skin.
What Happens After Visual Sclerotherapy Treatment?
After treatment, you can expect:
- Immediate Return to Activities: Most patients can resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.
- Post-Procedure Care: You may need to wear compression stockings for a few days. Compression therapy will help the healing process and improve circulation.
- Minor Side Effects: Some patients may experience minor bruising, redness, or swelling at the injection site. However, these side effects typically resolve within a few days.
How Long Does it Take to See Results with Visual Sclerotherapy?
Results can vary, but many patients start to see improvements within a few weeks after the procedure. It may take between several weeks and a few months to see full results. The typical expectation is that the visual appearance of treated spider veins will decrease by about 50% with each visual sclerotherapy session, so multiple sessions are required to achieve optimal results.
What Are the Benefits of Visual Sclerotherapy?
There are numerous benefits to the procedure, including:
- Minimally Invasive: The procedure involves only small injections, reducing the risk of complications and scarring.
- Quick Recovery: Patients can also return to their daily activities almost immediately.
- Effective: Sclerotherapy is highly effective in treating spider veins and small varicose veins, providing significant cosmetic improvement.
- Outpatient Procedure: The procedure is an outpatient treatment, so you will not need a hospital visit.
How Effective is Visual Sclerotherapy?
The procedure is quite effective, with success rates typically exceeding 80-90%. Most patients experience significant visual improvement and a reduction in symptoms associated with spider veins.
How Long Does Visual Sclerotherapy Last?
The results can last a long time. The treatment permanently collapses treated veins, so the body can absorb them. However, new spider veins can develop over time, so you will likely need maintenance treatments to keep your desired results.
Will Insurance Cover Visual Sclerotherapy?
Visual sclerotherapy is considered cosmetic, and as such, insurance plans do not cover the procedure.
Is Visual Sclerotherapy Right for Me?
It may be right for you if you have:
- Spider Veins: Small, surface-level veins that are visible on the skin.
- Small Varicose Veins: Minor varicose veins that are causing cosmetic concerns or mild discomfort.
If you would like to learn more about or investigate other treatment options, contact our office today.
Request an appointment online or call us at 972-378-5347.
