Sclerotherapy Pittsburgh

Sclerotherapy at the Advanced Liposuction Center

Sclerotherapy for unwanted blood vessels (spider veins and small varicose veins). These occur from genetics, injury, aging, long periods of sitting or standing, pregnancy or hormone replacement therapy. Sufferers of varicose veins and spider veins often report aching, cramping pain in their legs. They may also have numbness, heaviness, and tiredness in their legs.

Relief may be gained from elevation of the legs or stockings, but these are temporary and don’t address the underlying problem. Varicose veins have the potential to form blood clots, and these painful veins can be considered a medical issue rather than a cosmetic one. Sclerotherapy is used to treat these veins. The procedure consists of a series of small injections to help seal the vein from the inside, allowing the body to naturally redirect blood flow to healthy veins.

Procedure

The procedure involves a painless sclerosant, which is injected into the veins, causing them to shrink, close off and eventually disappear. Two to five treatments are often needed and results are long-lasting.

The non-invasive procedure allows most patients to quickly return to their normal activities, although patients should not exercise for three days. Sclerotherapy can be used to treat veins on the face, hands, legs, arms and chest.

Advantages of Sclerotherapy:

• Minimal downtime
• Less likely to stain skin
• Long-lasting results
• Fewer allergic reactions
• No scarring

How Asclera Works

First, we give the patient topical anesthetic by our expert injectors, and then next place a tiny needle into the vein. Ultimately releasing the sclerosing agent, causing them to shrink. The veins close off and eventually disappear. Discomfort is minimal and the treatment takes about 30 minutes or less. We can see results within one month or less. Some patients may need more than one treatment to achieve optimal results. Because vein disease is progressive and has no cure, we recommend regular follow-up visits after every type of treatment.

The best part of sclerotherapy is the immediate relief. In fact, after the procedure you will likely be able to drive yourself home. While you may not be able to immediately jump into cardio for a short while, your regular daily activities will remain mostly unaffected.

What Areas Can We Treat with Sclero?

The vast majority of varicose veins (about 80% of what we treat) develop on the legs, ankles and feet. The difference between a spider vein and varicose veins is that varicose veins tend to be larger, push out from the surface of the skin and become discolored or swollen. There are varicose veins that occur deeper under the skin. These may not be visible but can cause discomfort. Spider veins, on the other hand, are smaller in size. The veins are closer to the skin. They are almost always red, purple, or blue.

I had large blue veins on my legs for years and really thought that nothing could be done about them. I hid them under long dresses and pants. It was embarrassing to talk about them. During a check up, my doctor remarked that if they were bothering me, I could seek treatment. Somehow that was enough to make me call The Advanced Vein Center and make an appointment. Now I’m embarrassed that I waited so long. I love being able to wear shorts outside of the house.

-Olivia (age 52) 

Hemorrhoids

Although not very common, sclerotherapy we sometimes use to treat hemorrhoids. This is typically only done with smaller external hemorrhoids. It can, however, also be utilized if your hemorrhoids are prone to bleeding. Sclerotherapy is a good option for some patients . Those who, due to other health concerns, cannot handle the risks associated with a hemorrhoid excision (or other surgical procedure) at the time.

Sclerotherapy we consider a successful treatment for varicose and spider veins in the following areas:

• ankles,
• anus,
• calves,
• face (most commonly on the nose),
• feet and
• thighs.

When selecting the best course of treatment for you, your provider will consider several factors. These include your age, the location, size and number of the damaged veins. Any past history of treatment or or venous disease will also be considered.