What is sclerotherapy?
Injection sclerotherapy remains the treatment of choice today for spider veins, reticular veins and small varicose veins. The technique has been used for greater than 50 years.

How does it work?
Dr. Heird uses image guidance state-of-the-art-technology, the VeinViewer, to assist in his treatments, allowing treatments to be simpler, faster and more complete. The smallest of needles is inserted directly into the vein. There is minimal pain on injection. A foaming solution technique (Foam Sclerotherapy), with FDA approved sodium tetradecyl is used. The chemical solution irritates the lining of the vessel causing it to swell and stick together. Some of the veins, over time, shrink. The colored (red, blue) appearance of the veins will fade or disappear. The treated veins are wrapped with a compression wrap (cotton, ace, sponge, and/or coban) for 3-5 days, depending on the size of the vein. This compression holds the vein together. A follow up appointment will be scheduled 2-3 weeks after a treatment session to recheck the treated area and possible evacuation (removal) of small hematomas (trapped blood) in the vein. This will help to enhance the treatment.

What type of results can I expect?
Most veins will lighten and/or disappear. Upon the first treatment 60%-70% will disappear, 25%-30% will fade, 10%-15% will not change. Sclerotherapy DOES NOT yield perfect results. Improvement usually occurs, but perfection is rarely achieved. As long as you expect improvement and not perfection, you should be satisfied. Full results will not been seen for 4-8 weeks.

Are results usually permanent?
The effect on the veins treated usually lasts in the majority of cases. However, new areas of veins can develop over time. Sclerotherapy treats the problem at this time. It does not prevent new veins from showing up in other areas.

What are the side effects of sclerotherapy?
Certain side effects may be experienced after sclerotherapy. Larger injected varicose veins may become lumpy and hard for several months before resolving. Raised red areas may appear at the injection sites and should disappear within a few days. Brown lines or a spot (hyperpigmentation) on the skin may be noted at the site of injection, possibly caused by a form of iron that escapes from the injected veins. In most cases, they disappear within 3-6 months, but can be permanent about 5 percent of the time. Bruising may occur around the injection site and can last several days or weeks. Your legs will look worse before they look better.

How many treatments are needed?
Dr. Heird will perform a thorough evaluation of your veins. At that time Dr. Heird will give you an estimate of sessions needed to obtain your goal. Occasionally areas may need additional re-treatment or “touch ups”.

Will I be happy with sclerotherapy?
We will work with you to make you happy, as long as you understand the limitations of the procedure. Everyone’s veins react differently. If you expect perfection, please don’t do it. If you have a realistic goal of improvement, you should be happy.

What causes spider veins and what can I do to prevent them?
Unfortunately spider veins are a very common problem. A family history of vein disease is most likely the underlying cause. Pregnancy or excess weight may increase spider veins if you have a tendency to develop them.

Are SPIDER VEINS dangerous and/or will they develop into larger veins?
Spider veins are not dangerous and need not be treated except to improve the looks of your legs (which is a good reason). Spider veins are veins that are within the skin layers. Varicose veins are below the skin. Spider veins never turn into varicose veins.

Will my insurance cover sclerotherapy?
Typically treatment of spider veins and reticular veins (blue veins) are considered a cosmetic treatment and therefore insurance companies WILL NOT cover the treatment. At the time of your consultation, Dr. Heird will determine if your vein treatment is cosmetic or medically necessary.