Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is the painless (really!) injection of a medication by a very fine needle into spider or larger veins to make them close off and be absorbed by the body.  We use it in conjunction with laser treatment, depending on the type of veins a patient has and whether or not there is reversal of blood flow (venous reflux).  An ultrasound is often ordered to determine which treatment is best.  Our sclerosant, polidocanol, is not FDA approved but is approved in Europe and Canada with excellent results.  It originated in Germany in 1935 and has a long record of safety. Our doctors train internationally to be up to date on the latest available methods in aesthetic medicine.

After sclerotherapy, a patient is advised to wear support stockings for 1 week to keep the veins compressed.  Hot bathing in a tub is to be avoided.  Regular exercise and showers are encouraged.  Usually 2-3 treatments are required to achieve the desired effect.  We treat 1 month apart and note that 2-3 months are needed for the full absorption of the vein.  Thus, winter is an ideal time for sclerotherapy in preparation for shorts and bathing suits in summer.

Price is by injection time ($175 for a 15 minute treatment).  Ask for an estimate for your own treatment needs.  Summer special is $50 off of a 30 minute or longer treatment. We have had some limited success with insurances covering sclerotherapy for varicosities. These are typically non HMO insurances.

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