Op. Dr. Oğuz Uğur
Sclerotherapy, one of the several methods developed for non-surgical varicose vein treatment, is a popular choice today for treating varicose veins on the skin surface.
What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a method that can be used for the treatment of both cosmetic and discomforting fine capillaries as well as medium and large varicose veins, which are visibly apparent on the skin and cause discomfort. It involves injecting a special medication into the varicose veins using fine needles. All types of varicose veins can be successfully treated with the sclerotherapy method. However, the most suitable method is determined clearly during the examination, considering the condition and intensity of your varicose veins.
Is Sclerotherapy Safe? Will I Feel Pain?
Sclerotherapy is highly effective in treating varicose veins. The individual undergoing treatment can return to work, school, and social life on the same day. Multiple treatments may be required for the disappearance of surface varicose veins. The treated varicose veins may appear worse for a few weeks before completely disappearing. Therefore, it is recommended to plan the treatment well or have it done a few weeks before special occasions.
Are the Results of Sclerotherapy Permanent?
Varicose veins eliminated with sclerotherapy do not recur. However, in some patients, new capillary ruptures may occur over the years. It should be noted that these should not be understood as a recurrence of previous capillary ruptures; they are new varicose veins that may develop later.
How Does Sclerotherapy Treat?
The medications used for sclerotherapy contain alcohol and sodium tetradecyl. These medications create chemical damage to the inner wall of the varicose vein. As a result, a microscopic wound is formed in the vein wall, and the walls of the vein stick together. Thus, the varicose veins first harden and then completely disappear.
Scientific Evidence for Sclerotherapy
Clinical trials conducted over the years in many countries show that sclerotherapy is a safe method for eliminating varicose veins and capillaries when applied by practitioners trained in sclerotherapy.
Is the Procedure Painful?
Many patients who have undergone sclerotherapy are often surprised to find out how painless and comfortable the needles actually are. It is likened to a small pinch or a mosquito bite. Generally, this sensation is limited to what is felt during the procedure. Occasionally, a mild burning sensation may be felt after the injection, but this burning quickly diminishes and disappears.
How Many Sessions are Required?
The number of sessions needed for complete clearance or improvement varies from patient to patient, depending on the condition of the varicose veins and capillary ruptures. Typically, it may require anywhere from 1 to 4 sessions or a few more. Independent varicose veins usually disappear with 1 to 3 sessions.
What Should I Pay Attention to Before Coming for Treatment?
1. Please refrain from using body lotions, creams, or bath oil-based products on the treatment day. Such substances make the skin slippery and hinder the adhesion of bandages.
2. Please avoid epilating or shaving your legs on the morning of the treatment. The application of alcohol during the treatment may cause burning sensations in small cuts.
3. Before coming for treatment, take care of bathing and skin cleanliness.
In the first few days after sclerotherapy, the veins in the treated areas may appear unsightly and bruised. This condition may last for approximately 1-2 weeks. Applying creams or gels recommended by your doctor to the application areas 2-3 times a day can reduce discomfort and discoloration. Full results of sclerotherapy should not be expected until 2-3 months after the procedure. Any skin discolorations that may occur will fade over time.