Sclerotherapy is a simple non-surgical procedure performed by Dr. Grishkevich to “erase” spider veins, which are small clusters of red, blue, or purple veins.
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Wellness injections in Portland, Oregon.
Sclerotherapy is a simple non-surgical procedure performed by Dr. Grishkevich to “erase” spider veins, which are small clusters of red, blue, or purple veins. During the Sclerotherapy procedure the veins are injected with a sclerosing solution, which causes the vein to close off and fade from view.
Spider veins are commonly found on the calves, thighs and ankles. They can be especially noticeable and unsightly when you are wearing shorts, dresses, skirts, or a bathing suit.
Sclerotherapy Treatment
During your Sclerotherapy consultation with Dr. Grishkevich, he will discuss the options and alternatives in great detail, providing you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about this non-surgical procedure. It typically takes 3-5 treatments per region to achieve optimum results.
Sclerotherapy - what to expect
Sclerotherapy is an out-patient procedure. Each procedure typically takes approximately 30-60 minutes.
Sclerotherapy involves injecting a pharmaceutical called a sclerosant. The sclerosant causes the veins to collapse so blood no longer fills them. The body will absorb the closed veins and reroute your blood to healthy veins within a few weeks.
Sclerotherapy recovery
After a Sclerotherapy procedure you will wear compression stockings to compress the treated vessels for one week after treatment to keep blood out of the treated veins.
Dr. Grishkevich recommends that you avoid strenuous activities the evening after the procedure, but you will have no additional restrictions after that. You should avoid hot baths, whirlpools, saunas, hot compresses, and direct exposure to sunlight for 48 hours after treatment.
Common side effects can include itching for 1 to 2 days after the procedure. The injection site may become raised and red, with some bruising, but should disappear in a few days. Dr. Grishkevich will schedule a follow-up post-recovery office visit to discuss your progress.
How is sclerotherapy performed?
Sclerotherapy, medication is injected into the unwanted spider veins to cause it to close. After the procedure external compression from stockings, keep the veins closed and prevent blood from flowing to it. Within a month, the vein is absorbed by the body and disappears. We perform sclerotherapy in our office. Anesthesia isn’t needed. The procedure isn’t painful, but the individual injections can cause a slight burning sensation that lasts a few seconds.
What can I expect after sclerotherapy?
We’ll have you use compression stockings. Usually you can remove the compression and resume normal activities in 24-48 hours. You might experience bruising and the injection site could be tender for a day or so. You’ll see significant improvement in about a month. Some veins require retreatment.
How do I prepare for sclerotherapy?
Please don’t use lotion or oil on your legs for 24 hours before sclerotherapy. And, shave your legs the night before. Avoid exposure to the sun for a month before and after treatment to help reduce the chance of dark pigmentation forming at the injection site. Bring a pair of shorts to wear during the procedure and plan to wear loose pants, sweats or a skirt.
How long does the sclerotherapy treatment take? How many treatments will I need?
Please arrive 15 minutes early to check in and prepare for the procedure. The treatment itself takes 20-60 minutes. The number of treatments varies from patient to patient. Many need just one session. If multiple sessions are needed, we’ll schedule them a few weeks apart.
What are the most common sclerotherapy side effects?
- Mild itching
- Hyperpigmentation, a light brown discoloration of the skin along the vein in the injection area. It will fade in a few weeks, but could take a year to disappear entirely.
- New, fine spider veins may occur. If untreated, they may disappear within a year or can be treated with sclerotherapy.
- Temporary tenderness or bruising at the injection site.
What are the less common sclerotherapy side effects?
- Ulceration at the injection site, which usually heals within six weeks, and may result in a small scar.
- Allergic reaction. Be sure to tell us about all allergies.
How much does sclerotherapy cost and will my insurance cover it?
Costs vary, depending on how many treatments you need. Sclerotherapy is usually considered a cosmetic procedure and isn’t covered by insurance. However, some symptomatic veins may qualify for insurance coverage. Check with your health insurance plan for complete details.
Will sclerotherapy work for me?
Spider veins shouldn’t grow back after effective treatment. However, we can’t alter heredity and aging. And, some patients experience recurrence. We can retreat varicose veins with sclerotherapy or other procedures. This isn’t just cosmetic maintenance, but improves circulation and relieves symptoms.
What other options do I have apart from sclerotherapy?
- You can choose to forego treatment. Spider veins may progress and new ones may form.
- Endovenous laser ablation (ELA) is an alternative to surgical stripping. Please talk with Dr. Grishkevich to discuss your options.
Can I exercise after the sclerotherapy treatment?
You should avoid activities that put pressure on the treated area (like heavy lifting or jogging) for a few days. But, your doctor might suggest a walking program to increase circulation and promote healing. After a few days, exercise is encouraged. The simplest, most effective exercise for good vein function is walking.
