Sclerotherapy Specialists in New Canaan, CT

Experts in Removing Unwanted Spider & Varicose Veins

There is no reason to live with embarrassing and often painful spider and varicose veins. Dr. Littzi treats both spider veins and varicose veins with Sclerotherapy treatment.

What are spider and varicose veins?

Spider veins or telangiectasias are those tiny purple and red blood vessels found most commonly on the thighs or lower legs of women. They are hereditary and can form anywhere on the leg, from the top of your thigh to the ankle. Occasionally spider veins appear on the face. Varicose veins are larger. They can appear raised with a bluish color and can become quite painful. Even though spider veins and varicose veins carry blood, they are not part of your venous valve system. Your spider veins and varicose veins can be eliminated permanently through a simple office procedure called Sclerotherapy.

What is Sclerotherapy?

The Sclerotherapy treatment was developed in the 1920’s. During the procedure a sclerosing solution is injected into the vein through a micro-needle. The tiny needles generally cause very little pain. The sclerosing solution causes the vein to blanch (turn white), then gradually disappear. A typical treatment may last for 15 to 20 minutes and consist of 70-100 injections. Injection Sclerotherapy may eliminate the need for an invasive surgical procedure.

Will sclerotherapy work on my veins?

Prior to treatment we will review your complete medical history to determine how long you have had a problem with your veins and the severity of the problem. We need to know if the problem is exacerbated by physical activity and if there has been any prior surgery or treatment on your veins. The doctor will test to determine if the venous system is affected. If it is, surgery may be advised before Sclerotherapy is attempted. If the area to be treated can be saved, Sclerotherapy will be recommended.

What are the treatments like?

First we thoroughly cleanse the area to be treated with alcohol. Then we mark the veins to be treated while you are standing. Most Sclerotherapy patients report little if any discomfort. A few may experience a mild burning sensation when we inject the solution, but it stops in a few seconds. The larger veins are usually treated first.

Using a tiny syringe, fitted with a micro-needle, your physician will inject a small amount of sclerosing agent into the vein. Sclerosing solution displaces the blood within the vein. It then causes irritation to the lining of the vein, causing it to swell shut. The needle is withdrawn and pressure to the area is applied immediately. While each vein may require several injections, most disappear in two weeks to two months.

How many treatments will I need?

Complete correction of the treated area is not expected on the first treatment. In most cases, about 50-70% of the treated vessels will be gone for good. However, new veins may occur and additional treatments are generally required for optimum results. These treatments may be in three week intervals.

What is recovery like?

You may be asked to wear special heavy-duty stockings to help keep pressure on the veins. This will reduce bruising and help keep the treated veins closed. Bruises around the treated areas usually disappear after the first week. A tan or brownish pigment may persist for six to eight weeks when larger veins are involved.

Patients are generally encouraged to resume normal activities immediately. We do ask that you refrain from vigorous activities for the first 24 hours. Walking is encouraged because it increases blood flow through the other veins.

Call today to schedule your vein treatment appointment.

Sclerotherapy Before & After