How Does Sclerotherapy For Spider Veins Work?

Are you feeling self-conscious about visible vein clusters on your legs or face? These common concerns can affect your confidence and make you hesitant to show your skin. Fortunately, there are effective treatments available. At Vein Institute Hattiesburg and D'Iberville, Dr. J. Keith Thompson provides sclerotherapy treatments for patients in Hattiesburg and D'Iberville, MS. If you're concerned about red, blue, or purple veins showing through your skin, you may benefit greatly from sclerotherapy. Let's explore how this treatment works and what it can do for the health and appearance of your skin.

Why are my veins so visible?

You might notice thin, web-like veins appearing on your legs or face. These are called spider veins, and they can become more noticeable for several reasons, including:

• Genetics: Family history can play a big role in the development of spider veins.
• Aging: Veins and skin change over time, making veins more noticeable.
• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menopause, or hormonal treatments can affect vein visibility.
• Lifestyle factors: Standing or sitting for long periods can affect the likelihood of developing spider veins, as can excessive sun exposure.

While spider veins are usually harmless, they can affect how you feel about your appearance. If they're bothering you, a vein specialist like Dr. Thompson can help you decide if sclerotherapy is the right spider vein treatment.

What is sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a popular spider vein treatment performed by Dr. Thompson to reduce the appearance of visible veins. During the procedure, a medical solution is injected directly into the affected veins, causing them to collapse and eventually be absorbed by the body. Blood flow is then naturally rerouted to healthier veins, improving circulation and skin appearance. This minimally invasive treatment is quick and requires little downtime, making it a popular option for those looking to reduce spider veins. Most patients notice visible improvements within a few weeks, with full results appearing as the treated veins fade.

What are the side effects of sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is generally a safe and effective treatment, but like any medical procedure, some side effects may occur. Most are mild and temporary, and Dr. Thompson will provide guidance on how to manage them. Common side effects of sclerotherapy include:

• Mild bruising at the injection site
• Swelling or redness around the treated area
• Temporary skin discoloration, which usually fades within a few weeks
• Itching or slight irritation at the injection site
• Tenderness or a firm feeling along the treated vein

Dr. Thompson will review these side effects before your treatment and provide personalized aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

How many spider vein treatments will I need?

The number of sclerotherapy appointments needed can vary from person to person. Factors like the size and number of spider veins influence the treatment plan. Some patients see significant improvement after just one session, while others may require multiple treatments to achieve their desired results. Dr. Thompson will assess your specific situation and develop a personalized therapy plan to ensure the most effective spider vein treatment possible.

Get rid of spider veins

Don't let spider veins affect your confidence any longer. Vein specialist Dr. J. Keith Thompson and the team at Vein Institute Hattiesburg and D'Iberville are dedicated to helping you achieve smoother, clearer skin with effective spider vein treatments. If you're in the Hattiesburg or D'Iberville, MS area, contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward saying goodbye to spider veins.