Foam Sclerotherapy for the Cosmetic Removal of Spider Veins

Foam sclerotherapy is a procedure that has helped patients in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and across the nation rid themselves of cosmetically unappealing spider veins. These unsightly veins often appear on the legs, but may appear elsewhere on the body as well. They are not considered medically harmful, but cause a great deal of embarrassment and self-consciousness for many people. Overcoming this condition and finding effective relief is very important to many individuals living with spider veins.

There are several treatments and procedures designed to help patients overcome spider veins. Many modern techniques utilize laser technology, which has grown throughout the medical industry. Still, sclerotherapy remains a stalwart in spider veins treatment and is used at vein clinics in Fort Lauderdale and throughout the nation.

Foam sclerotherapy is an injectable treatment that works by irritating the vein wall so that it collapses, shrinks and eventually disappears. There is no recovery time following sclerotherapy and patients are usually able to resume their normal activities immediately following treatment. Results may begin to become noticeable right after treatment. Most individuals are satisfied with their results after just one treatment, while others require subsequent treatments to reach optimal results.

To begin the procedure, a topical anesthetic is used to numb the treatment area before any injections are made. The sclerosing foam will be injected into the treatment area and ultrasound technology will be used to ensure that it is spread effectively. More than one injection may be necessary to reach optimal results. About 30 to 45 minutes are usually required for treatment.

Most individuals with spider veins are considered candidates for foam sclerotherapy. Those with certain blood or cardiovascular problems may not be considered candidates, however, and pregnant women should not undergo foam sclerotherapy. Before receiving treatment, those interested should consult a vein specialist in their area to determine if they are considered a candidate.

Recovery may involve the use of compression stockings if veins in the legs are treated. These are typically worn for a couple of days to aid in the healing process. Foam sclerotherapy holds a few distinct advantages over traditional sclerotherapy procedures. With foam sclerotherapy, the sclerant used is of a foam consistency, whereas with traditional sclerotherapy, a liquid formulation is used. The foam consistency is more effective in displacing blood in the vein, allowing for greater direct contact with the vein wall. It is also more easily viewed using ultrasound.

As foam sclerotherapy is considered a cosmetic treatment, insurance companies typically do not cover the cost of treatment. If it is used as a treatment when larger veins that are of a medical concern are involved, insurance may cover the cost, however. Patients are encouraged to discuss this matter with a vein specialist in Fort Lauderdale, as well as their insurance company to determine whether the treatment will be covered. In most cases, the cost of foam sclerotherapy ranges in price from $200 to $500 per treatment session.

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