50% of the population will develop problems with their leg veins during their life. Women in particular find the appearance of thread veins quite distressing but can be reassured that although unsightly, they are unlikely to cause symptoms or medical problems, and they can be treated with a significant improvement in their appearance.
The Specialist Medical Clinic offers a thorough assessment of a patient’s veins, providing a diagnosis and excluding any underlying problems. In this way the most suitable treatment option can be offered.
What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a safe, painless and well-established treatment for thread veins on the legs.
A solution is injected with a very tiny needle, very superficially, causing the lining of the vein to break down.
This damage to the vein wall triggers a healing response which over several weeks, causes the veins to close and fade away.
What results can I expect?
The results are not immediate. The veins look worse before they get better and the treatment may need to be repeated at 4-12 week intervals. Most patients see a 60-80% improvement in the appearance of the veins, at somewhere between one and four treatments.
Are the results permanent?
The veins that are successfully treated will not recur, but this is a treatment for the symptoms, not a cure for the underlying cause, therefore new veins may develop over time.
Is it a safe treatment?
This is a very safe treatment, but as with any other treatment, it is not entirely without risk and is not suitable for everyone. Your practitioner will take a medical history and discuss the possible risks and complications with you prior to treatment being given.
Is there any special aftercare?
You may resume normal activities immediately. You will be given special hosiery to wear for a week after treatment; this has the same appearance as normal hosiery and is available in a choice of colours. You will be advised to take a 10 minute walk immediately after treatment, to avoid high impact exercise for 2 weeks, to avoid steaming hot baths, showers, saunas or sunbeds for 2 weeks and to avoid waxing for 4 weeks. Please discuss any long-haul flight plans which are scheduled within 4 weeks of treatment with the practitioner.
Are there any alternative treatments?
Our nurse will be able to advise on cosmetic camouflage to improve the appearance of unsightly veins for particular outfits or events, and can advise on the use of compression hosiery for management of symptoms such as aching, swelling and itching.
For more information on sclerotherapy for thread veins, or to make an appointment, please contact the clinic.
