Spider vein treatment
Sclerotherapy is an entirely non-surgical and relatively safe procedure to treat spider veins. But for predictable results, it is vital to work with a qualified sclerotherapy expert.
The vein treatment provider will inform the patient of the potential risks and safety elements associated with this procedure to enable them to make a well-considered decision.
Building Rapport
At the time of the initial consultation, the patient will be able to ask questions and express any concerns that they may have about the safety of sclerotherapy. A responsible provider will respond to the patient’s questions in an accurate and transparent manner.
Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Bram Kaufman provides spider vein treatment to patients in Beachwood, Pepper Pike, Cleveland, OH, and surrounding locations.
Side Effects
The patient may experience some temporary sclerotherapy side-effects around the injections sites, including:
- Elevated red areas
- Minor bruising
- Tiny skin sores
- Spots, lines, or darkened skin
- Multiple red blood vessels
The side effects may take a few days to subside. The patient will not require any treatment for them. However, in exceptional cases, the side effects may last for months or even years.
Major Complications
In very rare cases, more serious sclerotherapy complications may develop. These conditions will require prompt medical attention:
Inflammation
While swelling is often mild, in some cases it may lead to discomfort and warmth around the injection areas. The treatment provider will prescribe medication to resolve the swelling.
Blood Clotting
Some patients may develop a blood clot in the treated vein, which will need to be drained. In very rare cases, the clot may move to a deeper vein around the injection area. This condition is called deep vein thrombosis.
Pulmonary Embolism
Deep vein thrombosis carries the risk of pulmonary embolism, which also occurs in rare cases. The blood clot from the larger vein may move to the lungs and obstruct a vital artery. In case the patient complains of chest pain, breathing difficulty, or dizziness, they should be given immediate medical attention.
Formation of Air Bubbles
Air bubbles may develop in the blood. In some cases, this condition may be asymptomatic. However, in other cases, it may indicated by nausea, headache, visual impairment, and fainting. Medical attention is necessary if the symptoms continue or worsen.
Allergic Response
An allergic reaction to the medication used in sclerotherapy injections may occur in rare cases. This condition will need immediate medical attention.
How to Reduce Risk?
To minimize the risks associated with sclerotherapy injections, the patient should work with a highly trained and experienced injection provider. The treatment sessions should be spaced apart appropriately to allow the treated veins to respond and generate long-lasting outcomes.
The injection provider may ask the patient to walk on a treadmill for a few minutes following the procedure. The patient will need to wear compression stockings for a few days or weeks as directed by the provider.
Ultrasound Imaging for Safer Treatment Planning
In some cases, the treatment provider may order an ultrasound imaging test to assess the deeper condition of the affected areas, depending on which veins are impacted.
The ultrasound imaging procedure is efficient and painless, and it enables the provider to understand the exact extent and nature of the spider veins. This will allow them to create an individualized treatment plan for safe and predictable outcomes.
Plastic surgeon Dr. Bram Kaufman receives patients from Beachwood, Pepper Pike, Cleveland, OH, and nearby areas for spider vein treatment.
To learn more about cosmetic treatment and procedures or to schedule a consultation by Cleveland Ohio area plastic surgeon, Dr. Bram Kaufman, please contact us at 1-216-778-2245 or click here.