A. Yes, the results of sclerotherapy are improved and the risk of phlebitis prevented with the immediate compression of the legs with 30mm Hg pressure stockings. They should be worn for spider veins for 1-3 days; for mild reticular veins 7 days, and for more severe reticular veins and mild varicose veins, they should be worn for 3 weeks.
Q. I am 33 and have had 2 children. With each pregnancy, my leg veins have gotten worse. I want to have one more child. Should I wait until all pregnancies are behind me, or come in soon and be treated even if I want to have another child in a couple of years?
A. This is a question I have heard frequently over the past 30 years I have been doing sclerotherapy for unsightly leg veins. I strongly recommend you treat as these veins appear. You will look better and your legs feel better with treatment. With the new Asclera sclerosant, pain is negligible. You must wear stocking after each session, but normal activities are permitted (a very important issue for a busy mom). As soon as you become pregnant, we would suspend treatments (most likely, you would be finished in less than 3 months anyway) because pregnant woman are at increased risk of blood clots and sclerotherapy might increase the risk in pregnant women. I would recommend also that as soon as you become pregnant, you be fitted for support stockings to prevent worsening of the veins during the pregnancy. Good luck.
Q. Which is better: laser or injections for blue veins on my legs that do not bulge? I went to a med spa where the nurse told me laser, but my dermatologist says injections. I just hate needles!
A. There is an old saying: "when someone owns an expensive hammer, everything begins to look like a nail". Sclerotherapy remains the most effective, safe and cost-efficient procedure for spider and reticular veins. The needle is very tiny and the new sclerosants do not sting. Foam sclerotherapy is the best options in healthy patients for these blue reticular veins that you describe. Your dermatologist was right!
Q. I have very prominent veins on my chest and it embarrasses me when I wear bathing suits. I had sclerotherapy years ago for my ugly leg veins with great results. Can this procedure be done on my chest and hips?
A. Yes, sclerotherapy can be safely and successfully performed on dilated veins on the trunk of healthy patients with no underlying health issues.
More Sclerotherapy Related Questions
Back to Sclerotherapy Home Page