Foam Sclerotherapy as a Cosmetic Procedure?

Individuals in New York, New York or in other parts of the country who have heard of foam sclerotherapy may attribute it to the treatment of smaller medically problematic varicose veins, but for many, it is actually used for the treatment of spider veins. Spider veins may not cause pain and heaviness in the legs the way that varicose veins may, but they may be just as aesthetically unpleasant and may lead many to feel embarrassed or self-conscious of their appearance. Foam sclerotherapy is a procedure that has enjoyed great success in relieving this cosmetic nuisance.

Foam sclerotherapy involves injections of a sclerosing foam into the problem vein. The foam works by irritating the vein wall, causing it to collapse and shrink and eventually disappear entirely. With the vein now destroyed and unable to carry blood, the appearance of spider veins goes away. The treatment area is numbed using a topical anesthetic prior to beginning the procedure to ensure patient comfort throughout the treatment. Individuals who would like a more in-depth description of how the procedure is performed are encouraged to speak with a vein specialist in the New York area.

Foam sclerotherapy differs from other sclerotherapy procedures, however. Traditionally, sclerotherapy involves a liquid sclerant that irritates the vessel wall. With foam sclerotherapy, a foam formulation of the consistency similar to that of shaving cream is used. The foam formulation has a few unique advantages over the liquid formulation. For one, the foam treatment is easier to track on ultrasound. The foam formulation is also more effective in displacing blood in the vein, which gives it greater direct contact with the vessel wall.

Before receiving treatment, patients who are interested in foam sclerotherapy should speak with a medical professional in their area. Most men and women with spider veins are considered candidates for this procedure, although individuals with blood or cardiovascular problems and women who are pregnant should not undergo this procedure. Be sure to disclose your medical history and any conditions from which you are suffering before beginning treatment to avoid possible complications or side effects.

Some of the risks that have been associated with foam sclerotherapy include microembolisms, which are tiny blood clots that form in the treatment area. Itching, redness and bruising are also possible side effects, although these typically resolve on their own within a few days. Patients are typically able to return to work and other normal daily activities immediately following treatment, although compression stockings may be encouraged for a day or two after the treatment if veins in the legs are treated. Most individuals are satisfied with treatment after one session, although others may require multiple sessions to achieve desired results.

Learn more about foam sclerotherapy in New York, New York. .