How to Prepare for Sclerotherapy Laser Treatment

Blog Post
By BASS Vein Center
How to Prepare for Sclerotherapy Laser Treatment
October 19, 2023

Sclerotherapy Laser Treatment is a procedure that can help eliminate unsightly and painful varicose veins. These large and bulging veins result from damaged valves, which can develop because of a patient’s age or other factors. Damaged valves cause blood to flow backward instead of toward the heart. As the blood pools in the damaged vein, varicose veins form as the vein twists and stretches.

When a person with varicose veins stands, sits, or walks for long periods, it places extreme pressure on the veins in the lower extremities. That pressure can lead to pain and discomfort over time. When varicose veins start to cause you distress, it is time to speak with a vein specialist at BASS Vein Center to discuss treatment options.

What Is Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is one of the most common forms of treatment when it comes to varicose veins and spider veins. It involves injecting a salt solution directly into the damaged vein. The salt solution irritates the lining of the vein, making it collapse. The lining sticks together and the vein closes. Eventually, the damaged vein becomes scar tissue and fades away. The blood that was pooling in the damaged vein is then rerouted to a healthier vein.

How Do I Prepare for Sclerotherapy?

Before the treatment begins, the vein specialist will examine you to determine if you are a good candidate for sclerotherapy treatment. Women who are pregnant are not eligible for the procedure. A doctor will evaluate anyone who has had a blood clot in the past to determine if they would make a good candidate for sclerotherapy.

You should avoid taking some medications before the procedure. Most doctors will recommend avoiding ibuprofen or aspirin at least 48 to 72 hours before sclerotherapy. We will advise you on which specific medications to avoid before your treatment.

You should not apply any lotion, perfume, powder, or cologne to the legs before treatment, and do nots have the area being treated.  You should drink plenty of water and bring along your compression socks or stockings to the facility to wear aftertreatment. While the stockings should be tight-fitting, all other clothing should be loose and comfortable.

Sclerotherapy Procedure

Usually, the solution is injected into the patient’s vein using a fine needle. The area is numbed before the needle being inserted. You may feel some discomfort or pressure while the solution is injected into the vein. That feeling could last for one to two minutes per vein. The number of veins injected during a single procedure depends on the location and size of the veins and the general health of the patient. The entire process often takes around 15 to 30 minutes to complete.

Sclerotherapy has been performed for many decades by doctors, dermatologists, and vein specialists. The procedure is performed in-office, and most people can go back to their usual activities following the process. However, you are advised not to do any aerobic or other strenuous exercises a few days after treatment.

Some patients experience side effects after treatment, such as itching, which may last for a few days. You may also experience redness or bruising at the injection site that should go away a few days after the procedure.

Find Sclerotherapy Treatment Near Me

BASS Vein Center offers the most innovative treatment options for varicose veins and spider veins. If you are interested in learning more about the procedures available to eliminate varicose veins, such as sclerotherapy laser treatment, get in touch with our team today. 

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