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Thread Vein Treatment – Sclerotherapy
Thread veins are extremely common and sometimes embarrassing, mostly affecting the face, body and legs. The causes of thread veins are not fully understood although they may be caused by changes in temperature, smoking, hormonal changes, alcohol, prolonged standing, underlying venous problems as well as being a possible inherited condition. Dr Rose treats thread veins with the non surgical technique of Injection Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is effective in removing thread veins from the body and legs and is a relatively simple non surgical treatment which only takes 30-40 minutes. A very fine needle is used to inject a solution into the vein, which causes it to perish and, over a course of treatments, disappear completely. The number of treatment sessions depends on how many areas need to be treated and individual response to treatment but we generally advise it may take up to 4 treatments.
Areas that Dr Rose treats using Sclerotherapy
- Leg thread veins
Questions & Answers
How does Sclerotherapy work?
Sclerotherapy involves an injection of a solution directly into the vein. The solution irritates the lining of the vessel, causing it to swell and stick together, and the blood to clot. Over time, the vessel turns into scar tissue that fades from view. Sclerotherapy is a well-proven technique which has been in use since the 1930s to treat varicose veins.
How long does the treatment take?
Usually the treatment last from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how many veins are to be treated
Does it hurt?
Mild discomfort may occur but no anaesthesia is usually required. Ice packs can be applied to minimize discomfort
Are there any side effects?
Even when a highly experienced doctor is performing the treatment, there are a number of possible side effects. These include various skin markings or injury, localised swellings and bruising or tenderness or itch. Most of the side effects are minor, and confined to the area which has been treated. Dr Rose will give you a more detailed explanation of all possible side effects before the commencement of your treatment.
Will the treated veins recur?
The actual thread veins treated by sclerotherapy will not recur, unless they are extremely large before treatment. However, the underlying weakness in the vein walls is not corrected, and therefore new vessels will possibly continue to appear at the same rate as before treatment. These of course can be treated as they occur.
Do I have to wear support garments following treatment?
Following sclerotherapy for leg veins you will be required to wear compression hosiery for a period of time, usually 48-72 hours after treatment and then for 2 weeks, removing the garments at night. Dr Rose provides Sigvaris hosiery, a highly regarded French brand, with each treatment course. You should also be able to do regular walking after your treatment, as this promotes the emptying of the leg veins, including the ones treated.