Sclerotherapy (the non-surgical elimination of varicose veins by injection) is used to treat many types of varicose veins and surface (spider or thread) veins.

Varicose Veins are enlarged veins that are swollen and raised above the surface of the skin. They can be dark purple or blue, and look twisted and bulging. Varicose veins are commonly found on the backs of the calves or on the inside of the leg. Veins are vessels which are designed to carry de-oxygenated blood back to the heart from the tissues of the body. However, varicose veins are abnormally dilated veins that cannot perform their function. As a result, blood pools in the veins and causes them to get larger.

Does the injection procedure hurt?
Yes, the amount of discomfort felt will vary with the individual. The needles used are extremely fine (similar to acupuncture needles) and many are hardly felt at all. The injected solution can sting slightly for short periods of time.

Does the vein treatment interfere with my work or home duties?
This is a walk-in, walk-out procedure. Most treatments take about 30 minutes to perform. Following treatment your daily routine should not be disrupted; however, heavy physical exercise or workloads should be avoided for about 2 weeks following each treatment.

What if I do not treat my varicose veins?
Vein disease is progressive which if left untreated is likely to become worse with time. Increasing symptoms that can occur with untreated varicose veins include leg tiredness, heaviness, aching, throbbing, restlessness, tingling, itching numbness and swelling. More serious complications such as phlebitis, blood clots, dermatitis, and vein ulcers can develop if varicose veins are left untreated.

Do I need these veins?
Varicose veins and spider veins are not functional, and the blood has already found alternative pathways via healthy veins. Varicose veins are not missed by the circulation, in fact, it improves without them.

Will the treated veins come back?
Treated correctly, the veins will not come back, as the body has absorbed them. New veins however, may appear with time, as the same causative hereditary factors still exist. These new veins are generally less pronounced and can be easily treated. In some patients maintenance treatment is required to keep new vessel growth to a minimum.

Should I wait until I have completed my family?
Becoming pregnant with existing varicose veins will only lead to the veins becoming significantly worse as the pregnancy develops. It is best to undergo this treatment between pregnancies.

Complications and Side Effects
Transient harmless superficial blood clot (not deep blood clot which is harmful)
Hyper pigmentation will fade over time scarring
Infection
Inflammation of the veins (phlebitis)

For more information on Varicose Vein Treatment, please contact BHC 1300 882 823 or click here to book your consultation online.