Fight Spider Veins with Foam Sclerotherapy!

Spider veins are not considered a medical concern, but to patients in New York, New York and in other parts of the country, they are a very burdensome cosmetic condition that may cause embarrassment and self-consciousness. Foam sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that provides relief to those suffering from spider veins and small varicose veins. Those suffering from large varicose veins are encouraged to seek other treatment options such as endovenous laser ablation, as foam sclerotherapy is not intended to treat large varicose veins.

A topical anesthetic may be applied to provide patient comfort before the treatment begins. The procedure works by injecting a chemical sclerant into problem veins once the treatment area has been numbed. The sclerant irritates the vessel wall, causing the vein to collapse and shrink. Blood can no longer flow through the veins and the appearance of the condition goes away. Ultrasound technology is used to monitor the procedure and ensure proper placement of injections.

Foam sclerotherapy differs from other sclerotherapy procedures in that the formulation is a foam consistency instead of a liquid consistency. This is more effective in displacing blood in the vein, giving the treatment greater contact with the vein wall. It is also easier to view on ultrasound. Those interested should discuss the two types of treatment to determine which is right for them.

Most men and women with spider veins or small varicose veins are considered candidates for this procedure, although patients should disclose any medical conditions and medications they are currently taking or have taken recently. Patients with certain blood or cardiovascular problems may not be considered candidates for foam sclerotherapy. Pregnant women should not undergo the procedure either.

Recovering from foam sclerotherapy is very brief. Most patients are able to return to work or other normal activities immediately after the procedure. Compression stockings may be worn for a couple of days if the legs are treated. Results typically appear after just one session, although some patients require multiple sessions to reach optimal results.

A risk of microembolisms, or tiny blood clots, has been associated with foam sclerotherapy. Patients are encouraged to discuss this with a vein specialist in the New York area for more information. Some patients may experience itching, redness and bruising, although these should subside on their own within a couple of days.

This procedure is typically not covered by insurance, as it is usually used as a cosmetic procedure to relieve spider veins. However, if it is used to treat varicose veins that require medical treatment, it may be covered. Patients should consult their insurance company, as well as the clinic for more information. Most treatments costs between $200 and $500 per session.

Learn more about foam sclerotherapy in New York, New York.