Sclerotherapy is a very effective, minimally invasive treatment for spider veins that are less than 1 mm in diameter and varicose veins between 1-3 mm in diameter (these are also known as reticular veins). Don’t worry about measuring your veins, though! We’ll be happy to help you during your consultation.
During a Sclerotherapy treatment, the affected veins are injected with a sclerosing agent using a very small needle. We use a technique called “foaming” to improve the effectiveness of the agent. The sclerosing agent irritates the lining of the vein, causing it to collapse and clot. Over time, this clotted vein is replaced with new tissue, resulting in a smooth appearance.
There are several sclerosing agents on the market. At NOVA Plastic Surgery, we use AscleraⓇ, an FDA-approved agent. Our founder and medical director, Dr. Fadi Nukta, performed a thorough review of the medical literature to identify the agent that produces the best results with the fewest side effects—and Asclera is that agent.
During your consultation, our highly trained clinicians and staff will meet with you to determine your specific needs so they can customize the concentration and volume of Asclera for you.
Where Did These Unsightly Veins Come from, Anyway?
Although spider veins are more common in women, they do occur in men, too. They can be passed down genetically or caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy, sitting for long periods of time, or repeatedly sitting cross-legged.
What Can I Expect During a Sclerotherapy Treatment?
Sclerotherapy treatment takes about 30 minutes. Repeat treatments will be needed if the area to be treated is large. Though it is possible patients may experience pain and discomfort during and after treatment, the Asclera injection is reported to be less painful than other agents and does not require numbing.
After the procedure, medical-grade compression garments are used for 10 days. As with any procedure, the Asclera injection does carry some risk for side effects or complications. Potential side effects include itching, transient hyperpigmentation, sloughing skin, swelling, irritation, and bruising in the target area. These are generally minimal, short-term effects, but there is a small chance that particular tissues could be damaged and contract infections.
Generally speaking, you can expect to see beautiful, smooth, clean results in the treated area in about four weeks! The time varies, however, and some patients may see their results in as little as two weeks or as much as 12 weeks.
To get a sense of the simplicity and speed of the procedure, you can watch a brief video of a sclerosing treatment here.
How Do I Know If I Am a Good Candidate for Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a quick and easy treatment with very few side effects. It will help to remove uncomplicated spider veins (very small varicose veins up to 1 mm in diameter) and uncomplicated small varicose veins (1-3 mm in diameter), also known as reticular veins.
Any woman or man who would like to remove unsightly veins quickly and easily should come in for a consultation, and we’ll help you determine if Sclerotherapy is a good solution for you!
Who Should Not Undergo Sclerotherapy?
You should not undergo sclerotherapy if you have any of the following conditions:
- History of allergies to sclerosing agents
- Deep venous thrombosis or history of pulmonary embolism
- History of patent foramen ovale (PFO) or a hole in the heart
- Pregnancy or if you are breastfeeding
Why Choose NOVA Plastic Surgery for Treating My Varicose (Spider and Reticular) Veins?
NOVA Plastic Surgery is your Sclerotherapy expert, serving Loudoun, Ashburn, and Northern Virginia. Our highly experienced and professional team of plastic surgeons, clinicians, and staff is ready to help you remove your spider veins smoothly and quickly.
To hear directly from our founder and medical director, Dr. Fadi Nukta, check out his video message about the treatment of spider veins.
We are looking forward to supporting you in your process of taking care of yourself and removing unsightly veins!
Book your consultation now or call 703-574-2588 to speak to a qualified staff member. We are ready to answer your questions!
