If you’re considering spider vein treatment, sclerotherapy is a highly effective and minimally invasive option offered at Maryland Vein Clinic. Led by board-certified vein doctors, we specialize in a range of vein treatments to help you achieve healthier, more beautiful legs. In this article, we delve into the details of sclerotherapy, focusing specifically on what you can expect after one week of treatment.

Understanding Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a scientifically proven treatment for spider veins that works by disrupting the inner lining of the affected blood vessels. During the procedure, a sclerosant solution is injected directly into the targeted veins. The sclerosant, often a liquid or foam, irritates the vein walls, leading to an inflammatory response. This inflammation triggers the formation of a blood clot within the treated vessel, causing it to collapse and seal shut. Over time, the body naturally absorbs the closed vein, redirecting blood flow to healthier vessels. As a result, the appearance of spider veins diminishes, and the treated veins gradually fade away.

The Duration of Sclerotherapy

One common question patients ask is, “How long does sclerotherapy last?” While the initial treatment itself is relatively short, it is essential to have realistic expectations regarding the overall timeline for optimal results. After the initial session, you can expect to see gradual improvements over several weeks or months. In most cases, a series of treatments is necessary to achieve the desired outcome.

Immediate Post-Treatment Care

After sclerotherapy, it is important to follow the post-treatment guidelines provided by our vein specialists at Maryland Vein Clinic. Some key points to keep in mind include:

1. Wear Loose Clothing: Opt for loose-fitting garments to avoid unnecessary pressure.
2. Compression Stockings: We recommend wearing compression stockings for a specified period, as advised by our vein doctors. These stockings help maintain pressure on the treated blood vessels, reducing swelling and promoting proper healing.
3. Avoid Sun Exposure: Direct sun exposure can increase the risk of pigmentation changes in the treated areas. Protect your legs from the sun or use a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
4. Stay Active: Light physical activity, such as walking, is encouraged after sclerotherapy. This helps improve circulation and reduces the chances of blood clot formation.

What to Expect After 1 Week

After one week has passed, you may notice several changes:

1. Reduced Appearance of Spider Veins: While complete resolution may take some time, you will likely observe a noticeable improvement in the appearance of spider veins. The treated veins may appear lighter or even disappear altogether.
2. Potential Side Effects: Some patients may experience minor side effects, including temporary bruising, redness, or swelling at the injection sites. These symptoms typically subside within a week.
3. Resuming Normal Activities: Most patients resume their regular activities immediately. However, it’s important to avoid strenuous exercises and heavy lifting for a week or two.

Long-Term Results and Maintenance

Sclerotherapy provides long-lasting results, but it is important to note that new spider veins may develop over time due to various factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, and lifestyle choices. To maintain the results of your sclerotherapy treatment, we recommend the following:

1. Follow-up Treatments: Depending on the severity of your condition, multiple sessions of sclerotherapy may be required to achieve optimal results. Our vein doctors at Maryland Vein Clinic will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
2. Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help prevent the recurrence of spider veins. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding prolonged periods of standing or sitting can contribute to overall vein health.
3. Ongoing Support: At Maryland Vein Clinic, we are committed to providing comprehensive care even after your treatment is complete. We offer post-treatment consultations to monitor your progress and address any concerns you may have.

Wearing Compression Stockings

One essential aspect of post-sclerotherapy care involves wearing compression stockings. These specialized stockings apply gentle pressure to the treated areas, promoting proper blood circulation and aiding in the healing process. Here’s why compression stockings are an integral part of sclerotherapy treatment:

1. Enhances Blood Flow: Compression stockings exert graduated pressure, with the highest pressure at the ankles and gradually decreasing towards the thighs. This compression helps to improve blood flow, preventing blood from pooling in the treated veins and reducing the risk of complications.
2. Reduces Swelling and Discomfort: After sclerotherapy, it is common to experience mild swelling and discomfort. Compression stockings minimize these symptoms by providing external support and reducing swelling caused by the inflammatory response.
3. Supports Healing: The consistent pressure exerted by compression stockings helps the collapsed veins to seal properly and enhances the absorption of the sclerosant solution. This support aids in the healing process and promotes the long-term success of the treatment.
4. Prevents the Formation of Blood Clots: Compression stockings can also reduce the risk of blood clots, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT can occur as a result of decreased mobility after the procedure. By promoting healthy blood flow, compression stockings help to prevent the formation of blood clots and related complications.
5. Improves Treatment Results: Wearing compression stockings can improve the overall effectiveness of sclerotherapy. The stockings help to maintain the pressure on the treated veins, ensuring optimal closure and reducing the chances of vein recurrence.

It is important to follow the specific instructions provided by your vein specialist regarding the duration and frequency of wearing compression stockings. Typically, you will be advised to wear them for a certain number of hours per day or continuously for a specific period. Compliance with this recommendation will greatly contribute to achieving the desired outcomes.

Schedule Sclerotherapy in Maryland

Sclerotherapy is a safe and effective treatment for spider veins offered at Maryland Vein Clinic. After one week, you can expect to see improvements in the appearance of your spider veins. However, it is important to follow the post-treatment guidelines provided by our vein doctors to ensure optimal results. Contact us for a consultation and experience the expertise of our board-certified vein specialists at Maryland Vein Clinic. Our vein clinic is conveniently located at 10215 Fernwood Rd, Suite 301, Bethesda, just outside of Washington, DC in Silver Spring.