843-652-5344 (#LEGG)

LOWCOUNTRY VEIN SPECIALISTS, LLC
LOWCOUNTRY VEIN SPECIALISTS, LLC
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843-652-5344 (#LEGG)


  • Home
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  • About Us
  • Patient Info
    • Frequent Questions
    • Patient Forms
    • Contact Us

Frequently Asked Questions

Can all varicose veins be treated?

Yes, any size varicose vein can be treated that is in the superficial venous system, but the process may be different.

Are there any veins that can not be treated?

The body is wonderfully designed with both Superficial and Deep veins.  The Superficial veins are outside the muscle and the Deep veins are in the muscle.  The Deep veins carry 80 t0 90% of the blood out of the leg and can not be eliminated.  Only diseased superficial veins can be treated.  

What causes Varicose and Spider veins?

Varicose and Spider veins have abnormal valves.  The arteries are the vessels that take the blood down the leg and the veins are designed to take the blood out of the leg, against gravity.  Normal valves in the veins are necessary for proper flow.  When these valves are not working ("venous insufficiency"), blood flows the wrong direction and increases the pressure in the veins - "venous hypertension".  Hereditary factors, hormones, blood clots, trauma, and long standing or sitting are the most common causes of venous valve damage.

Will I need more than one treatment?

It depends on the extent of the disease, but most people will need between 2 and 8 treatments.

Can the veins come back once they are treated?

No, the treated veins have been permanently removed. However, new veins may develop in the same site.

What should I expect after sclerotherapy?

You will be able to return to your regular activities. We ask that you walk at least 30 minutes per day, starting as soon as you finish your first treatment. You should avoid heavy weightlifting or strenuous aerobics for three weeks. It is recommended that you avoid getting sunlight to the treated site for at least one month.

Is this covered by insurance?

Many insurance companies will reimburse if it is considered to be a medical problem. Cosmetic problems are typically not covered and will vary with the insurance company. Spider veins are considered cosmetic and treatment is usually not covered.

Will I leave the office in bandages?

For small veins, a self-adhesive wrap or light compression hose are applied, which can be removed that evening. Compression stockings can be beneficial for a few weeks following the injection, with the greatest benefit in the first week after treatment.

How soon will veins disappear?

For most veins, they will gradually resolve over a 2 week to 3 month period of time.

Does it hurt?

No, you may feel a small pin prick with small veins and have mild bruising with the large veins.

What kind of veins can not be treated with sclerotherapy?

Veins which are larger than 1 centimeter and near a major junction may require surgical treatment or other procedures. Extremely small veins less than 1/1000 of a millimeter respond to intense pulse light (IPL) treatments.  The Deep veins that are in the muscle can not be eliminated.

Are there other ways to treat varicose veins?

Yes!

Electrical Needle Treatment

Surface Laser

Depending upon your conditions, we have a wide range of procedures that will address your specific needs.

Surface Laser

Electrical Needle Treatment

Surface Laser

This is a technique that is best reserved for facial vessels and can be performed at our office.

Electrical Needle Treatment

Electrical Needle Treatment

Surgical Ligation or Stripping

With this method, both the vessel and the overlaying skin is destroyed, producing a greater incidence of scarring.

Surgical Ligation or Stripping

Surgical Ligation or Stripping

Surgical Ligation or Stripping

This technique is rarely used and requires general anesthesia and hospitalization.

Endovenous procedures

Surgical Ligation or Stripping

Ambulatory Phlebectomy

These are performed in our office and used specifically for the treatment of large underlying varicose veins.

Ambulatory Phlebectomy

Surgical Ligation or Stripping

Ambulatory Phlebectomy

A surgical office procedure occasionally used for larger varicose veins on the surface.

Are there side effects to sclerotherapy?

(1) Some may experience a darkening of the skin at the site of injection. Within 3-6months, 80% of these resolve. The remainder of these will usually disappear
(2) A small superficial ulcer may form at the injection site. They are most common around the ankles and rarely leave any permanent scars.
(3) Occasionally a clot will form in the injected vessel. These are easily removed within 2-3 weeks and never cause any internal problems.
(4) Superficial veins can become inflamed. We call this Superficial Thrombophlebitis. This occurs in less than 1 per 1,000 patients and is typically treated at home with elevation, heat, anti-inflammatory medications, and compression stockings.

What should I do before my appointment to receive sclerotherapy?

Do not shave your legs or apply any lotions the day of your appointment. Avoid self tanning lotions as they may hide the veins to be treated.  Bring comfortable shorts to wear for the procedure and slacks to wear home.

How long does the procedure take?

Each session lasts approximately 30 minutes.

Am I doing any harm by removing these veins?

No, these are diseased veins in the superficial system and they serve no useful purpose.

Can anyone have sclerotherapy?

No, there are some people who are not candidates. It is important to inform the provider doing your sclerotherapy of any medical problems, and of medications you are taking.

What can I expect on my first visit?

Your first visit will include a thorough history and exam. Further testing may be required to determine your treatment plan. Injections are usually not done on your first appointment.

Is there a good website for more information on venous disease?

Yes, The American Venous and Lymphatic Society (AVLS) has an excellent and informative web page at www.phlebology.org.

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Lowcountry Vein Specialists

4545 Highway 17, Murrells Inlet, South Carolina 29576, United States

843-652-5344 (#LEGG)






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