What is sclerotherapy and how can this treatment help New Orleans patients?

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Patients suffering from spider veins and varicose veins may not only be embarrassed by their outward appearance, but may also be dealing with unwanted discomfort that occurs in the legs due to these enlarged veins. These veins vary in color, but are often darker and extremely noticeable when patients wear swimsuits, shorts, or skirts. A procedure called sclerotherapy treatment may be beneficial in allowing patients to eliminate the veins and improve their overall quality of life.

Sclerotherapy is an injection treatment that targets spider veins and varicose veins. A medication is introduced into the veins, which causes them to close and fade away. The blood that circulates through those veins will redirect to healthier veins deeper in the leg. Agents such as polidocanol, sodium tetradecyl sulfate, and saline are common ingredients in sclerotherapy injections.

The treatment is relatively simple and does not take very long. In fact, most appointments last less than 30 minutes. Patients do not require anesthesia due to the small size of the needles, and little pain and discomfort is felt during the injections. Patients may feel some stinging sensations immediately after the injection, but it is not long-term. Bandages are applied afterwards and patients are encouraged to wear compression socks or support hose for a few days, and should walk to encourage recirculation.

The treatment is non-invasive and is done at the Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology as an outpatient procedure. Patients may need more than one treatment depending on the size and depth of the veins addressed, and this is discussed during the consultation visit before the procedure is performed. Patients are educated on what to expect before, during, and after their treatment, and are encouraged to ask any questions if there are concerns or misunderstandings.

New Orleans patients visiting Dr. Mary Lupo can learn more about the benefits of sclerotherapy during an initial consultation visit at the Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology. Patients are encouraged to contact her at to schedule a visit and find out if their problematic veins can be addressed with this fast, simple, and effective treatment.