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Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is used to treat hardened veins, also known as spider or varicose veins, sclerotherapy involves the injection of a sclerosing solution into the veins that makes them collapse, close, and disappear. Sclerotherapy managed by experienced surgeons like Dr. Gill can bring tremendous relief to individuals who suffer from painful varicose veins or unattractive spider veins.

If you're seeking a vein treatment in the Houston area, sclerotherapy with Dr. Paul Gill may be the right choice.

If You're Considering Sclerotherapy

Men and women alike can benefit from the procedure if they demonstrate the presence of spider or varicose veins. Varicose veins are detectable by their darker color, larger size and tendency to bulge. Spider veins, on the other hand, are smaller than varicose veins. They also appear red or purple in color in a spider-web appearance, and are closer to the surface of the skin. Both varicose and spider veins occur in the legs, though spider veins can also develop on the face or foot.

Common causes of spider and varicose veins include:

• Prolonged sitting or standing
• Pregnancy
• Hormonal shifts
• Heredity
• Weight gain

During a consultation, Dr. Gill can help you determine the possible causes of your unwanted veins. In some cases, the problem is related to a condition called venous reflux disease.

What to Expect in Sclerotherapy

Dr. Gill will first examine the veins that are bothering you. Once it is determined which veins will benefit from treatment, the procedure can begin.

Sclerotherapy is conducted in an outpatient facility. The treatment can be done without anesthesia or with a topica anesthetic. The skin is then cleansed with antiseptic, and the sclerosing agent is injected into the problematic vein using a fine needle. Because one injection is used for every inch of vein, your procedure may require anywhere from 5 and 40 injections. Most individuals feel no more than a mild burning sensation during treatment.

Expect to schedule 2 or more sclerotherapy sessions in order to achieve maximum results.

Recovering from Sclerotherapy

After injection, compression tape and cotton balls are applied to the treated injection sites. You may experience cramping, bruising and redness during the first 24 hours or so after treatment. Limit your typical daily activities, but be sure to walk in order to encourage circulation. Finally, be sure to wear tight-fitting support hose for the first 72 hours after the procedure to promote recovery.

If you or someone you know is suffering from a painful varicose vein or an off-putting spider vein, please call our Houston office to set up a consultation with Dr. Paul Gill. He is board certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery, a status that speaks to his capabilities as a surgeon and his concern for providing only the best care for his patients. We are located in North Houston, a short commute for residents of the Woodlands, Conroe and Kingwood.