Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy (Leg Vein Injections)

Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure done by your healthcare provider to treat uncomplicated spider veins and reticular veins.  The treatment involves the injection of a solution into the affected veins.

Sclerotherapy can be combined with laser treatment with our GentlMax Pro or Candela VBeam laser.

FAQs:

How does sclerotherapy work?

A solution is injected into the vein with a very tiny needle.  It works by irritating the endothelium of the vessels, eventually causing the vessels to collapse and disappear. There are a variety of solutions that can be used depending on the type of vessels being treated.

How long does a sclerotherapy treatment take?

A typical sclerotherapy session lasts 15-45 minutes.  Multiple injections are done in one session. 

Are the injections painful?

The needles used are very small, so at most there is a small pinching sensation.  Injection of the solution may also cause some minor burning that will dissipate.

What do I need to do after a sclerotherapy treatment?

Compression stockings are put on immediately after the procedure. It is necessary to keep pressure on the vessels treated for best results. Your healthcare provider will recommend that you wear compression stockings for two weeks following treatment.   

What are the most common side effects of sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a very safe and effective procedure.  It is common to experience mild redness, temporary itching and slight bruising after undergoing a sclerotherapy treatment.   Additionally, brown-tan discoloration may occur that can last a few months after treatment.

When is the best time for treatment?

Generally, the best time for vein treatment is during the fall and winter, so your legs will be looking their best by the following spring or summer.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of treatments needed differs from patient to patient and depends on the extent of spider veins present.   You will have (50-70%) reduction or lightening in blood vessles after one treatment, so usually you need two to three treatments.   This can be discussed at your consultation.

Botox for Crow's Feet!

On September 11, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a use of Botox® Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) for the temporary improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe lateral canthal lines, which are more commonly referred to as "crow's feet."  Physicians have used Botox® in this area for years "off-label," but the new FDA approval will offer consumers an additional level of confidence in the safety and efficacy of the product.   

Botox® Cosmetic was first approved in 2002 for treatment of glabellar lines (frown lines between the eyebrows).  The FDA has also stated that both frown lines and crow’s feet can be treated at the same time.

The FDA approval is based on two clinical efficacy and safety studies:

“The studies enrolled 833 adult participants with moderate to severe lateral canthal lines who were randomly assigned to receive Botox or placebo. Results showed that those treated with Botox had greater improvement compared to placebo in the appearance of lateral canthal lines.

The most common adverse reaction associated with the use of Botox Cosmetic for treatment of lateral canthal lines is eyelid edema, a condition in which the eyelids are swollen and contain excessive fluid.” (1)

Botox^® is one of our most popular noninvasive cosmetic procedures for both women and men.  It is a purified protein that works by blocking nerve impulses, allowing muscles to relax, effectively eliminating wrinkles and giving the face a rejuvenated look.  Using a small needle, tiny injections are made into the muscles that cause frown lines.  Within days you may see an improvement, but it can take two weeks to see the full effect.  Typically Botox® treatment lasts three to four months.

Dermatology Associates of Rochester is also a member of the Brilliant Distinctions® Program, which is a program Allergan (the company who makes Botox®) created to allow you to get exclusive offers on Botox® Cosmetic and their other products including the cosmetic filler, Juvederm®.

Reference:

(1) http://www.fda.gov/newsevents/newsroom/pressannouncements/ucm367662.htm