Imagine waving goodbye to those pesky varicose and spider veins that you’ve been living with for years. Enter sclerotherapy, a medical procedure that’s like a magic eraser for your legs. But will they stay gone, and for how long? For anyone considering this vein-erasing procedure, knowing its longevity is key to planning and managing your expectations.
Sclerotherapy treats varicose and spider veins by injecting a solution into affected veins, causing them to close and fade. Results appear within weeks, lasting 3-5 years. Minor side effects may occur but typically resolve quickly. APEX Vascular in Knoxville offers expert, personalized care for those seeking this treatment in East Tennessee.
What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy aims to improve the appearance of visible veins and alleviate symptoms associated with venous insufficiency. It’s a minimally invasive medical procedure used to treat:
- Varicose veins
- Spider veins
- Other vascular malformations
The treatment involves injecting a special chemical solution called a sclerosant directly into the affected veins. This solution irritates the lining of the blood vessel, causing it to swell and close off. Over time, the treated vein turns into scar tissue and fades from view.
The procedure is typically performed without anesthesia and can take 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the number and size of veins being treated.
Initial Results and Recovery
Initial results from sclerotherapy can be seen within a few weeks, but optimal outcomes typically take 3-6 weeks for spider veins and 3-4 months for larger varicose veins. The recovery process is minimal, with no downtime required. You can resume most activities immediately, including driving and walking.
Post-treatment care instructions include:
- Wearing compression stockings for 1-3 weeks during waking hours
- Walking 30-60 minutes daily to promote circulation
- Avoiding strenuous exercise, hot baths, and prolonged sitting for 7 days
- Applying warm, wet compresses if redness or tenderness occurs
- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers if needed
- Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water
Patients may initially experience mild discomfort, bruising, or the darkening of treated veins. However, these effects typically subside within a few weeks. It’s important to follow your vascular provider’s specific instructions and attend follow-up appointments to ensure optimal results.
How Long Does Sclerotherapy Last?
The question “How long does sclerotherapy last” is complex since the duration of results varies depending on several factors. Typically, sclerotherapy results last 3-5 years for most patients. However, the longevity of the treatment can differ significantly between individuals. The treated veins themselves are permanently eliminated, but new veins may develop over time.
Factors affecting the longevity of sclerotherapy results include:
- Vein size and severity: Smaller veins tend to respond more effectively to treatment
- Your overall health and lifestyle: Smoking, obesity, and prolonged periods of standing or sitting can contribute to new vein formation
- Genetics: Hereditary factors may influence the likelihood of developing new spider or varicose veins
- Post-treatment care: Adhering to aftercare instructions and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can extend the results
While sclerotherapy can permanently eliminate treated veins, it doesn’t prevent new ones from forming. Therefore, you may require maintenance sessions to maintain your desired outcome. Regular follow-ups with your vascular doctor can help determine your need for additional treatments and assess the overall success of the procedure.
Maintaining Results
There are steps you can take to help maintain your sclerotherapy results, including:
- Exercising, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing
- Wearing compression stockings, especially during activities that stress your legs
- Elevating your legs when resting to improve circulation
Follow-up treatments may be necessary to address any remaining or new veins. Make sure to attend all scheduled appointments with your vein specialist to monitor your progress and discuss any concerns.
To prevent new vein formation, continue wearing compression stockings, engage in low-impact exercises that strengthen calf muscles, and maintain a balanced diet. Be extra vigilant about these preventive measures if you have a family history of vein problems.
Potential Side Effects
The side effects of sclerotherapy are usually minor and typically resolve within a few days to weeks. Common minor side effects of sclerotherapy include:
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Redness
- Mild discomfort at the injection site
Choose APEX Vascular for Sclerotherapy in Knoxville, TN
APEX Vascular stands out as the premier choice for sclerotherapy in Knoxville and East Tennessee thanks to our commitment to personalized, high-quality care. Our interdisciplinary team of experienced vascular surgeons offers comprehensive skills and an unparalleled dedication to patient well-being.
We focus on empowering you through education and guiding you through various endovascular and surgical approaches to create individualized treatment plans. Our team ensures that you feel respected and valued throughout your healthcare journey, treating you with respect and making you feel at home.
This patient-centered approach combined with expertise in vascular care makes APEX Vascular the best choice when seeking sclerotherapy treatments in the region.
Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive vein treatment that uses injectable solutions to close and fade varicose and spider veins. Lasting 3-5 years, the procedure offers quick results with minimal side effects. APEX Vascular in East Tennessee provides expert, personalized care for those seeking this effective vein treatment.
APEX Vascular is a vascular surgery and vein center with locations in Knoxville, Lenoir City, Crossville, Decatur, Harrogate, and Sevierville, TN. We are dedicated to delivering personalized, high-quality care that goes beyond medical treatment. Our exceptional vascular staff, boasting extensive experience in vascular surgery, works tirelessly to elevate the standards of patient care and contribute to your overall well-being. Visit us online or call us at 865-562-3232 to request an appointment today!
