Frequently Asked Questions

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

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.  

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

(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.

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.

Each session lasts approximately 30 minutes.

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

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.

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.

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