SCLEROTHERAPY

WHAT IS SCLEROTHERAPY?

Sclerotherapy is a safe and effective treatment for varicose veins and spider veins these are typically red or blue and look like small webs or branches of veins under the skin. A substance is injected into the vein causing it to scar and then eventually collapse and be reabsorbed into local tissue. Sclerotherapy is not only good for cosmetic purposes but can be used to reduce symptoms of aching, swelling and night cramps. 

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HOW DOES IT WORK?

We will use a series of micro-injections to inject a substance called a sclerosing agent, this will cause the lining of the vein to swell and block blood from flowing through the vein. Your body will naturally re-route the blood to a healthier vein and the blocked vein will collapse and be reabsorbed. 

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HOW LONG DOES SCLEROTHERAPY LAST?

Following the treatment, you will find between a 70 - 90% improvement in the treated veins. This is a gradual process and it can take up to 3 months for the veins to fade, whilst sclerotherapy results are permanent, it will not stop the development of new veins. 

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WHERE CAN SCLEROTHERAPY BE USED?

Sclerotherapy can be used to treat:

• The appearance of Varicose and Spider Veins

• Symptoms related to Varicose and Spider Veins including Aching, Swelling, Night Cramps and Burning. 

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ARE SCLEROTHERAPY SAFE?

Yes, Sclerotherapy is safe when performed by a professional. 

WHY HAVE A CONSULTATION?

We offer a consultation session which is £70. This session is perfect if you are unsure about what service to book and would like some guidance. At this session, we will discuss your requirements and understand what services are best to achieve your goals. Book a consultation now

At your treatment appointment, we will have a 15 minute pre-treatment discussion where we will ask you for the details of your medical history and the medication that you are taking, we will also discuss any treatments that you have had previously and what you would like to achieve with your treatment. Based on your answers, we will discuss if the treatment is best for you and will run through any concerns you may have. 

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WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU COME IN?

Topical numbing cream will be applied to the target area and we will administer the Sclerotherapy injections to the problem areas using a very fine needle. Following the procedure, you will need to wear Sclerotherapy Stockings, these can be purchased from Secret Society Aesthetics for £60 at your appointment. 

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HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY APPOINTMENT?

We suggest that you avoid any special occasions within a 14-day period of the procedure, this gives time for any residual bruising or swelling to subside. 

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To prevent additional bruising and bleeding around the injection site, we recommend avoiding taking aspirin and any anti-inflammatory medications, please check with your doctor if you take blood thinners before stopping any medication. 

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Arnica supplements can be taken pre-emptively and following the procedure to reduce discomfort and bruising. 

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Please avoid working out or going to the gym ahead of the appointment to avoid having flushed skin which can increase bruising potential due to the blood being at the surface of the skin.

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Please also arrive without makeup or facial products on your skin and avoid any alcohol for at least 48 hours prior to the appointment to avoid more bruising and swelling. 

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Please try to eat something before your appointment, this will prevent you from feeling light-headed or faint during the treatment. 

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Please discuss with your Doctor if you have any medical conditions or take any medication that affects blood flow or may cause any adverse effects from this treatment. 

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Do not shave your legs or apply lotion to your legs 24 hours prior to the appointment. 

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DO I NEED ANY DOWNTIME?

After your treatment, you should be able to return to your normal ‘light’ activities, including driving and getting back to work, although, we would recommend someone to drive you home from your appointment. Walking and moving your legs is important to prevent blood clots. You will need to wear stockings to maintain compression on your legs for approximately 2 weeks following the treatment. Also, please avoid strenuous physical exercise and avoid intense sun or UV light for 2 weeks following the procedure. 

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ANY SIDE EFFECTS TO BE AWARE OF?

The common side effects are bruising, redness, skin sores, darkened spots, and new small red blood vessels around the site of injection and typically disappear within a few days. 

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HOW MANY SESSIONS DO I NEED?

Typically it takes 3 treatments over 2-3 weekly intervals however this is dependent on the extent of the veins needing treatment. 

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WHO CAN'T HAVE SCLEROTHERAPY?

You cannot have this treatment whilst pregnant, had a baby within 3 months or breastfeeding, if the skin is infected, or if you have a blood clot or clotting illness.