.png)
Cosmetic Vein Removal
Cosmetic Sclerotherapy, also referred to as Visually Guided Sclerotherapy, is a procedure that is used for cosmetic vein removal, treating unwanted spider and reticular veins.
Regarded as the gold standard for treatment, it is often more effective than cosmetic laser therapy, particularly when performed carefully by skilled professionals.
What Does Visually Guided Sclerotherapy Treat?
There are two conditions that we often use this procedure to treat – Spider veins and reticular veins.
Spider veins/Telangiectasia:
-
Small dilated blood vessels – roughly 0.5-1 mm
-
Commonly in areas like the legs, ankles and face
-
Red, purple or blue in color
-
Although generally harmless, spider veins can cause discomfort, but most wish to treat or remove them for cosmetic reasons
Reticular veins:
-
Slightly larger than spider veins – roughly 1-3 mm
-
Blue or green in color, and often appear on the legs or ankles
-
Similar to spider veins, treatment is often sought for cosmetic reasons, though also can cause discomfort
How Does Visually Guided Sclerotherapy Work?
Visually Guided Sclerotherapy involves the use of microinjections of a sclerosant solution, which is directly injected into the targeted vein. The sclerosant irritates the vein’s lining, causing it to collapse and form scar tissue. Over time, usually within several weeks, the treated vein is gradually absorbed by the body and fades away. The scarring remains beneath the skin's surface, leaving a highly effective and aesthetically pleasing result.
How Effective is Visually Guided Sclerotherapy?
Highly effective! When treated properly, spider and reticular veins typically begin to fade or disappear completely within 4-6 weeks. Depending on the extent and severity, multiple sessions may be needed to fully eliminate the unwanted veins.
While spider veins are often seen as a cosmetic concern, they can sometimes indicate underlying vein disease deeper in the leg. In the early stages, spider veins may be the only visible symptom.
The success of spider vein treatment is closely linked to identifying and addressing any underlying vein disease, such as small feeder reticular or varicose veins, which are often the root cause. Without treating these underlying issues, cosmetic sclerotherapy is unlikely to be effective.
How is Visually Guided Sclerotherapy Performed?
Through microinjections, the sclerosant is delivered into the targeted vein using a tiny needle, similar in size to acupuncture needles. This procedure is performed as a walk-in, walk-out treatment with minimal to no downtime. The sclerosant we use has anesthetic properties, making it a gentler option compared to other agents available. The treatment usually takes 30 minutes or less.
At Veinsthetics, we focus on providing a treatment tailored to your specific needs. Our process begins with a thorough consultation that considers your desired outcome, followed by a detailed evaluation to identify any underlying abnormal feeding veins that may impact the success of the treatment.
If no underlying venous disease is suspected, cosmetic sclerotherapy can proceed. This may require multiple sessions, depending on the extent and severity of the veins. A personalized treatment plan, including an estimated number of sessions, will be discussed during your initial consultation.
If larger veins feeding the spider veins are suspected or discovered, these must be treated first before cosmetic sclerotherapy.
Staying at the forefront of cosmetic vein care, our nurse practitioner has mastered advanced sclerotherapy techniques. Her specialized sclerosant formulations and procedural approach significantly reduce the number of sessions required, and provide overall outstanding results.
Ready to start your journey toward vein-free, beautiful legs?
.png)