Varicose veins can be incredibly distracting. While not always physically uncomfortable, these highly visible, discolored, and thick veins can cause serious aesthetic issues – particularly for people who prefer to have their legs somewhat exposed.

There are several treatments for varicose veins. Some include cauterizing the vein, while others involve surgical removal. At North Texas Plastic Surgery, we offer a third option: sclerotherapy with Asclera, a safe, effective, and nonsurgical option for treating this common condition.

If you struggle with varicose veins, please call 866-936-2309 to schedule your initial consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons today. We maintain offices in Plano, Southlake, and Dallas.

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are twisted and swollen veins that are typically visible underneath the skin. Developing when a vein’s valves stop working properly, the condition occurs when blood can no longer properly flow into and out of a vein, resulting in a buildup that causes swelling and discoloration.

Varicose veins typically occur in the legs and feet. They may cause legs to feel heavy or be accompanied by a persistent ache. Additional symptoms of varicose veins include:

• Dry and itchy skin over the affected area
• Burning or throbbing
• Swollen feet and ankles
• Muscle cramps

Cramping may be worse at night in people struggling with varicose veins and can, in some cases, make getting out of bed painful.

Spider Veins

Spider veins are a type of varicose vein that are common on the legs, feet, hands, chest, and face. Unlike other types of varicose veins, spider veins do not present as swollen or raised, but they can be very visible and may detract from the overall appearance.

As with other types of varicose veins, spider veins occur when valves in the veins stop functioning properly and allow blood to collect.

Risk Factors for Varicose Veins

Women are more likely to develop varicose veins than men, particularly in cases where a family history of the condition exists. Pregnancy, another risk factor, further increases these risks for women.

Aging is another risk factor for varicose and spider veins, with the latter typically occurring after the age of 30 even in the absence of other risk factors.

Obesity, inactivity, and long periods of standing are also risk factors for developing varicose veins.

Preventing Varicose Veins

You can counter genetics, age, and biology – somewhat – by choosing to lead an active lifestyle. If your job requires being stationary, get up and move around every 30 minutes. Take regular breaks to walk throughout the day. Most importantly, commit to getting an adequate amount of exercise every week.

The CDC has adult exercise guidelines, but working with a personal trainer can be very useful if you struggle to self-motivate.

Treating Varicose Veins

At North Texas Plastic Surgery, we offer sclerotherapy with Asclera for the treatment of uncomplicated spider veins (<1mm in diameter) and small varicose veins (1-3mm in diameter).

Non-surgical and minimally invasive, this treatment involves injecting Asclera, a type of sclerosant, into the veins. This sclerosant causes the treated vein to swell, cutting off the flow of blood and enabling the vein to shrink and become less visible. As the vein shrinks, swelling, pain, and other symptoms of varicose veins will diminish as well.

Because it is non-surgical, there are very few risks or side-effects related to Asclera. Some people experience bruising, redness, and discomfort around the injection site, but these things should diminish within just a few days. We will cover all risks and side-effects in detail during your initial consultation to help ensure you are making the best decision for your needs.

Most people are able to resume normal activities within 12 to 24 hours after treatment, but some activities may need to be avoided for up to 48 hours.

Sclerotherapy Results

Results vary depending on the size and location of the treatment area and factors that are unique to each individual. Smaller varicose veins and spider veins may respond well within two months. Larger veins may take three to four months to diminish.

Ideal results with sclerotherapy may require more than one treatment.

Sclerotherapy is permanent, but new veins can appear. It is important that you continue to take steps to prevent varicose veins in order to avoid them in the future. During your initial consultation, we can discuss what you can expect post-treatment in more detail and provide you with information about maintaining your sclerotherapy results.

Contact North Texas Plastic Surgery

Please call 866-936-2309 to schedule your varicose vein treatment consultation at our Dallas, Plano, or Southlake office. Our board-certified plastic surgeons serve men and women living throughout the region.