Having sclerotherapy for spider veins? You may wonder what recovery from the procedure is like. In truth, recovery is very easy and painless. Here are some things you should know in advance of treatments for spider veins.
Compression Stockings
Your vein doctor will likely recommend your wear compression stockings following sclerotherapy treatment. Depending on your specific case, you might wear them for a few days or a few weeks. The stockings will help maintain pressure in your legs which allow your veins to circulate blood throughout your body. They’ll also help reduce bruising that can occur following sclerotherapy.
Bruising
It’s common to have some bruising around injection sites. Bruises can last for up to two weeks and may be longer for patients who take blood thinners like coumadin. Remember that everyone heals differently, and some people’s bruises may go away quicker than others. Bruises should be at their darkest and largest within a few days of treatment. However, you should consult your doctor if the bruise increases in size or gets darker a week or longer after treatment. You should also seek immediate medical treatment if an abscess appears around the injection site. While it’s very rare, some people react poorly to the solution used in the treatment.
Activity Level
You can resume normal activities immediately following sclerotherapy treatment, but you should probably avoid strenuous activity or exercise for a few days while your body heals. Regular low-impact exercises like walking are encouraged following sclerotherapy vein treatments.
Things to Watch For
You’ll need to tell your doctor if your injection sites and bruises are slow to heal or if you notice clotting in the treatment area. You may also notice some discoloration around the injection site but it’s generally nothing of concern. If it bothers you, it can usually be corrected with creams or laser therapy. Sclerotherapy is one of the most common treatments for broken capillaries and veins. It’s a quick, virtually painless way to reduce the appearance of unsightly veins. Recovery is easy, though you should always follow your doctor’s instructions for care of your veins.
Want to learn more about vein treatments? Contact Dr. Charles Dietzek‘s office at 856-309-9777 today for an appointment.