Feeding reticular vein
Spider veins rarely exist on their own: they are usually fed by a larger reticular vein hidden under the skin. Treatment of only visible stars without a feeding vein is the most common reason for rapid relapse and disappointment in the method. Therefore, in the second degree, the doctor first finds and scleroses the supplying veins, and then works with the telangiectasias themselves. This sequence gives lasting results.
How does sclerotherapy work?
The sclerosant causes controlled damage to the inner lining of the vein. The vessel collapses, sticks together and within a few weeks turns into a thin cord that dissolves and becomes invisible.
The method does not require incisions or anesthesia, is performed on an outpatient basis and allows you to return to normal life immediately. However, it is not universal: large trunks with pronounced reverse blood flow are not treated with sclerotherapy - laser obliteration is needed there.
An important condition for success
Spider veins and small veins are often just the tip of the problem. If there is an incompetent feeding trunk underneath them, sclerosis of the superficial veins will give a temporary result: in a few months they will appear again. Therefore, duplex scanning before treatment is mandatory, and when reflux is detected, its cause is first eliminated.
What to expect after the procedure
- veins darken and become more noticeable in the first 2-3 weeks - this is normal
- slight bruising and compaction along the vein are possible
- the final result is assessed after 4–8 weeks
- Full effect usually requires 2–4 sessions