How to get sclerotherapy treatment

Sclerotherapy is one of several treatment options available for thread veins or spider veins, as it is better known. This is a rather new technique for spider vein removal or the more serious varicose veins without it being as invasive as traditional surgery used for vein removal.

Why does spider vein occur?

Spider veins (dilated or broken capillaries) mainly affect women because of the hormonal imbalance they go through due to periods and pregnancy.

It can also be caused because of a genetic link. If there a family history of spider veins then there is a chance that this will be the cause in your case too.

How does sclerotherapy work?

Sclerotherapy works by having a needle inserted into the vein where the thread veins appear through the skin. A solution known as sclerosant is injected into the veins. This makes the veins disappear gradually over the course of the coming weeks. The sclerosant is a chemical solution that is used to make the lining of the vessel wall of the affected veins collapse.

You must bear in mind that sclerotherapy does not prevent new spider veins from occurring. However, treating existing spider veins will make dramatic difference.

Pre-treatment

The doctor performing the procedure will discuss this with you. You will be made fully aware of what you can and cannot do. You may be told to avoid certain medication and exercise just prior to the sclerotherapy injections.

Number of treatments required

The number of treatment sessions will vary according to the size and severity of the spider veins. In many cases, the patient will have to return for further sclerotherapy sessions. These extra sessions are intended to remove the appearance as much of spider veins as much a possible.

Cost of Sclerotherapy treatment

The cost of sclerotherapy will vary depending on the extent of thread veins. The cost will be discussed with the surgeon performing the surgery and determined case by case. A single session of sclerotherapy will set you back around $200.

Health insurance coverage

Like with many other treatments, health insurance will be dependent on whether there is a health issue. Sclerotherapy is often done for cosmetic reasons. However, if it is deemed a health problem then there is a chance of getting health insurance coverage. Of course, if it is a health problem, your doctor/physician will have to substantiate this for when you are making a claim against your health insurance.

Sclerotherapy cost will depend on where you have it done.

Side effects

The side effects of sclerotherapy are relatively minor. In some cases, there is some swelling following the procedure. There is also the possibility that skin will get a reddish appearance.

Following surgery, the patient may be left with some marks as result of the injections on the veins

You may have new blood vessels occurring at the injected sites.

Inflammation known as phlebitis. Phlebitis can be caused if the sclerotherapy has been performed after a plane journey, not enough compression applied to the treated areas. It is also possible that the cause was not treated properly during the sclerotherapy procedure. Other possible causes are medications such as hormone therapy.