Have you noticed a series of veins that appear like a spider web through your skin? Commonly known as spider veins, these vascular lesions are a sequence of small blue, red, or purple veins that twist and turn under the skin. While spider veins are not typically harmful, they can cause feelings of self-consciousness towards your complexion. If you are looking to correct bothersome spider veins, VENUS Vein Clinic offers sclerotherapy as a means of helping you achieve clearer skin.
At VENUS Vein Clinic, we excel at providing cutting-edge venous treatments, including sclerotherapy, in the greater Omaha area. We are committed to ensuring successful treatments that enhance aesthetics and improve quality of life. You can schedule a consultation today to learn more about our spider vein treatment. We can’t wait to hear from you!
What Are Spider Veins?
Spider veins are small, malfunctioning veins that are visible on the surface of the skin. They often resemble fine, thin lines, spider webs, or branches, and can be red, blue, or purple in color. These veins typically manifest on the legs and face, particularly the nose, cheeks, and chin. Though they are generally harmless and non-threatening to overall health, many people seek spider vein treatment for aesthetic reasons.
What Causes Spider Veins?
Spider veins form as a result of weak or damaged valves in the affected veins. When these valves, which are essential for regulating blood flow, become compromised and don’t close properly, they can cause blood to pool or flow backward, resulting in the visible veins we know as spider veins.
Spider vein causes are often associated with certain lifestyle factors and physiological conditions. Aging is one common factor, as the elasticity in our veins naturally diminishes over time, leading to the development of spider veins. Hormonal changes like those that happen during menopause or pregnancy can also contribute to their formation. Other causes include prolonged periods of standing or sitting, which increase pressure in the veins of the lower body, and genetic predispositions to weakened vein valves.
What Is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy has become a tried-and-true modality of safely and effectively treating spider veins. This treatment has been performed and improved for over 70 years, proving its efficacy in helping people to achieve clearer skin.
This treatment utilizes a salt-based solution to irritate the targeted spider veins. The salt solution works to break down the spider veins, and once collapsed, blood flow will naturally reroute to nearby, healthier veins. Collapsing veins are processed by the body and gradually fade from view, creating a clearer even complexion.
What Happens to the Treated Veins?
Once the body recognizes the treated veins as unnecessary, it breaks them down through a natural process called reabsorption. The collapsed veins are gradually absorbed into the surrounding tissue and eventually eliminated by the body’s lymphatic system. This process does not impact your circulation because spider veins are superficial and not part of the deep vein system responsible for carrying blood back to the heart. As the blood is rerouted, proper circulation remains intact.
What Are the Benefits of Sclerotherapy?
- Effective Spider Vein Removal: Sclerotherapy is known for its high success rate in eliminating spider veins, making it a preferred treatment option for many patients.
- Minimal Discomfort: The treatment involves minimal discomfort and typically requires either no anesthesia or local anesthesia.
- Quick Treatment: A spider vein treatment session often takes less than an hour, taking up only a small portion of the day.
- No Downtime: Sclerotherapy does not usually involve downtime. You can walk immediately after treatment, though it may be best to avoid strenuous exercise for a few days.
- No Hospitalization Required: Sclerotherapy is performed as an outpatient treatment, meaning patients don’t need to stay in a hospital.
Our Approach to Sclerotherapy
Consultation
When you come to us for your spider vein treatment, we begin by having a detailed consultation to understand your specific needs and concerns. This helps us to devise a tailored treatment plan that caters to your unique situation. During your consultation, we perform a visual examination of the affected areas to assess the extent and nature of your spider veins. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask any questions about the sclerotherapy process, such as how it works and what results you can expect. With an open dialogue, we can address your concerns and provide you with all the information you need to feel confident about your treatment.
The Sclerotherapy Procedure
At the start of your treatment, the designated area will be cleansed. This is an essential step that helps to prevent any potential infection and ensures the best possible outcome. The salt solution is then carefully administered into the spider veins through a very fine needle. This solution causes irritation in the lining of the blood vessel. Eventually, the vein collapses, causing it to stick together. Over time, the vessel stops being visible on the surface of the skin, leading to effective spider vein removal.
Sclerotherapy sessions typically last anywhere from 15-30 minutes, depending on what you are looking to accomplish. While you may require multiple sessions depending on the number and size of your spider veins, many patients report visible improvement after the first few treatments.
Post-Treatment Care and Recovery
After your spider vein treatment, we recommend wearing compression stockings or bandages over the treated areas to maintain pressure on the veins. This helps to reduce swelling and improves the effectiveness of the treatment.
Most normal activities can be resumed immediately post-treatment, although strenuous exercise should be avoided for a couple of weeks. Exposure to sunlight should also be limited to prevent dark spots from forming on the skin. Keep the treated area clean and dry and don’t use hot water to wash the injection sites. Instead, use a gentle soap with lukewarm water to clean the area. Avoid all other activities that involve extreme heat like hot tubs, saunas, or hot compresses. Regular follow-ups will be scheduled to monitor the progress and ensure the best possible results from your sclerotherapy treatment.
How to Prepare for Your Sclerotherapy Appointment
Before your sclerotherapy appointment, it’s best to avoid taking medications or supplements that thin the blood, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or fish oil. This type of medication can increase bruising after the injections. Choose something loose to wear that allows for easier access to the treatment area and helps you feel comfortable throughout the process. Staying hydrated is important, so drink plenty of water leading up to your visit. If your treatment involves multiple areas or you anticipate needing support after the appointment, you can arrange transportation. However, many people feel comfortable driving themselves after sclerotherapy. Keep your skin clean of any heavy lotions or oils that could interfere with the treatment. If you have any additional questions before we begin the treatment, be sure to let us know.
How Does Sclerotherapy Compare to Other Vein Treatments?
The best vein treatment for you depends on whether you are dealing with spider veins or varicose veins. It can also depend on your medical needs and preferences. Sclerotherapy is still considered the most effective treatment for spider veins. For larger veins, we also offer:
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): This treatment uses heat generated by radiofrequency energy to close off larger varicose veins. It’s a minimally invasive option for those with more significant vein issues and can provide lasting relief from discomfort and swelling.
- VenaSeal™: Venaseal involves sealing varicose veins with a medical adhesive, eliminating the need for heat or multiple injections. It’s a great choice for patients seeking treatment with minimal downtime and no compression stockings post-procedure.
- Varithena®: This treatment uses a foam-based sclerosant to treat varicose veins, particularly those that are difficult to access. Varithena is ideal for patients looking for a quick procedure that can address both visible and functional vein concerns.
- Ambulatory Phlebectomy: For large, bulging veins close to the skin’s surface, ambulatory phlebectomy involves removing the vein through tiny punctures. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and is effective for achieving cosmetic and functional results.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sclerotherapy
Who Is a Good Candidate for Sclerotherapy?
Anyone looking to safely and effectively improve spider veins without harsh, invasive measures may consider sclerotherapy. However, women who are pregnant or nursing may be referred to an alternative option.
Can Sclerotherapy Be Used on the Face?
Yes, sclerotherapy can be used for spider vein removal on the face. It is a safe and effective treatment for facial spider veins, often providing better results than other treatment options.
How Many Sclerotherapy Treatments Will I Need?
The number of treatments needed varies from person to person, depending on the number and size of the spider veins. Some people see significant improvement after just one or two treatments, while others may require several sessions.
Is the Sclerotherapy Treatment Painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort during sclerotherapy. The treatment involves the use of a very fine needle, and while you might feel a slight sting or cramp when the solution is injected, this usually lasts just a few seconds.
Will Spider Veins Return After the Sclerotherapy Treatment?
Sclerotherapy is effective in removing the treated spider veins, and these specific veins do not return. However, the treatment does not prevent new spider veins from developing in the future. Regular check-ups can help monitor and address any new veins that may appear. If you do develop additional spider veins, these can also be treated with sclerotherapy.
What Is the Difference Between Spider Veins and Varicose Veins?
While both spider veins and varicose veins involve the dilation of blood vessels, there are some key differences. Spider veins are much smaller and closer to the surface of the skin. They are often red or blue, and they look like tree branches or spider webs. Varicose veins, on the other hand, are larger, raised, and swollen blood vessels that twist and turn. They are typically blue or dark purple and can cause discomfort or pain.
Can Sclerotherapy Be Used to Treat Varicose Veins?
Sclerotherapy can be a good treatment for certain types of varicose veins. Some larger varicose veins may need a more targeted treatment such as ambulatory phlebectomy or VenaSeal ablation. We will help you find the right treatment for your individual concerns.
Are There Any Side Effects After Sclerotherapy?
After undergoing sclerotherapy for spider veins, some mild side effects are possible but usually resolve on their own within a few days or weeks. You may notice slight redness, swelling, or bruising around the treated area, which is common and temporary. Tiny, darkened spots or lines can sometimes appear along the vein path but typically fade over time. In rare cases, you might experience mild itching or a small lump at the injection site, both of which can be managed with proper aftercare.
Will My Insurance Cover Sclerotherapy?
Insurance coverage for sclerotherapy depends on whether the treatment is deemed medically necessary. If your spider veins cause symptoms like pain, swelling, or other complications, your provider may cover part or all of the cost after approval. However, if the treatment is purely cosmetic, it is unlikely to be covered. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to understand your specific plan and coverage options.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
Most patients begin to see improvement from sclerotherapy for spider veins within a few weeks as the treated veins gradually fade. Smaller veins may disappear faster, while larger ones can take up to a few months to fully resolve. Multiple sessions may be required for optimal results, depending on the extent of the treated veins.
How Can I Prevent Spider Veins?
While it may not be possible to completely prevent the development of spider veins, there are measures you can take to minimize their occurrence. These include:
- Regular exercise: Engage in activities that promote healthy blood circulation, such as walking, swimming, or cycling.
- Avoid prolonged sitting or standing: Take breaks and change positions regularly if your work involves extended periods of sitting or standing.
- Wear compression stockings: Consider wearing compression stockings, which can improve blood flow and reduce the risk of developing spider veins.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can put additional pressure on the veins, so maintaining a healthy weight is beneficial.
- Elevate your legs: Whenever possible, elevate your legs above heart level to reduce swelling and improve blood flow.
Why Choose Venus Vein Clinic?
At Venus Vein Clinic, we specialize exclusively in diagnosing and treating venous diseases so that we can provide the focused and expert care our patients need. Led by Dr. Kelly Schroeder, the only female board-certified vein and lymphatic specialist in the Omaha metro area, our clinic combines extensive experience with a compassionate, patient-centered approach. We pride ourselves on offering the most advanced treatments with a personalized touch. From your first consultation, you’ll find that we take the time to listen, educate, and guide you through every step of your care. Our goal is not just to improve your vein health but to enhance your overall quality of life so you can live more actively and comfortably.
Ready to Ditch Spider Veins? Contact Us Today!
Are you ready to say goodbye to spider veins and hello to clearer skin? We can help at Venus Vein Clinic in Omaha, NE with our spider vein treatments. Sclerotherapy is one of the most common ways to treat spider veins because of its long-standing track record for effectiveness. If you are interested in this treatment, we would love to help. Contact us today at (402) 922-8346 or via our online form to schedule your consultation and find out if sclerotherapy may be right for you!