Varicose Veins

Varicose veins of the face are vascular blemishes known widely as broken capillaries or spider veins. Please read more information on treating upper body and face vascular blemishes or Dr. Weinman’s article on Varicose Vein Removal.

Varicose Veins of the Legs

Varicose and spider veins are blood vessels that do not function as they should. Blood pools in these veins due to faulty valves which normally direct blood flow back to the heart. Elimination of varicose veins actually improves the circulation in your legs and can eliminate pain and fatigue caused by varicosities.

Initial Consultation

Upon your initial consultation with Dr. Weinman, a complete medical history will be taken and a physical examination will be completed to determine whether you are a candidate for treatment. Pre-sclerotherapy photographs will be taken to document your progress and long-term improvement.

Testing Requirements

If you have symptoms of deep varicose veins (pain), or symptoms of reflux you may be scheduled for an examination of the venous blood system using a non-invasive technique called Duplex Ultrasound.

The Sclerotherapy Procedure

During the actual treatment, a solution of saline (salt water) or sotradechol (detergent sclerosant) will be injected directly into the veins with a tiny needle. A few areas on each leg can be treated during a session. The initial treatment is usually light so that you can get used to the therapy and so that we can observe your healing pattern. The entire treatment will take no longer than fifteen minutes. You will walk out with minimal to no discomfort.

Number of Treatments Required

Usually, a few treatments will be necessary to treat all the existing veins. Then, a yearly or twice yearly session of small sclerotherapy treatments may be needed for any new vein formation.

What the Procedure Feels Like

You can expect to feel a tiny pin-prick, then a slight burning and/or cramping sensation which will dissipate completely within five minutes. The discomfort is usually described as minimal.

After Care

The small square bandage that was placed on each injection site can be removed the day after the treatment. You may wish to wear a long skirt or pants to cover these bandages when you leave the office.

Please be prepared to wear support stockings for at least three consecutive days following your treatment. These stockings are then worn continuously while awake for a period of 1-3 weeks. On your initial examination we will measure you for the stockings. If you prefer you can measure your ankle, calf and mid thigh with a tape measure and call us with the measurements. We can then order the stockings for you in anticipation of your visit.

Daily Activities Post Procedure

We ask that you refrain from any high impact exercise, such as jogging or aerobics, for three day following your treatment. Walking and biking are felt to be helpful in the post treatment period.

Appearance of Legs During Healing Process

Over a period of weeks the veins undergo resolution and fade from view. Within a month you will no longer feel self-conscious of your bare legs and if you had discomfort due to the veins, you will feel at ease standing and walking.