Individuals throughout the Austin, Texas community have found relief from spider veins and smaller varicose veins through foam sclerotherapy. This is a procedure performed in a doctor's office that is minimally-invasive and allows patients to resume their normal activities—such as returning to work or school—immediately after treatment. It is very convenient and takes only 30 to 45 minutes to perform, making it a preferred method for treating spider veins among many specialists in the field and patients. Through this method of treatment, many individuals around the world have found relief from this embarrassing—and sometimes uncomfortable—condition.
Foam sclerotherapy works by irritating the vessel lining of problem veins, leading to the collapse and closure of the veins. Blood is no longer able to flow through the veins, so other veins in the area will take over the blood flow for the destroyed veins. The body will remove the treated vein through its own natural processes. Most men and women with spider veins or small varicose veins are considered candidates for treatment, although patients should always speak with an Austin vein specialist to determine their candidacy. Some individuals with certain blood or cardiovascular disorders and women who are pregnant may not be considered candidates and should seek other forms of treatment.
The procedure begins with a topical anesthetic that numbs the treatment area. This is instead of a general anesthetic, which is used with many traditional surgical treatments. The topical anesthetic allows a speedy recovery that allows patients to return to work right after treatment. After the area has been numbed, the specialist begins injecting the treatment area using the sclerosing foam. Ultrasound guidance is used to make sure the foam is spread effectively to treat the problem veins. More than one injection may be required depending on the size of the treatment area.
Patients may be required to wear compression stockings for a couple of days after the procedure to aid in the healing process. Patients are usually happy with their results after just one session of foam sclerotherapy, although some require multiple treatment sessions to reach desired results. Speak with an Austin vein specialist to get an idea of how many treatment sessions may be required to reach optimal results. Also inquire about potential risks, as the procedure has been associated with microembolisms that form in the treatment area. Patients may experience itching, redness, or bruising, although these usually go away on their own after a couple days.
Learn more about foam sclerotherapy in Austin, Texas.
