Sclerotherapy

Small vessels, also known as broken capillaries, spider veins, or telangiectasias, are commonly treated with sclerotherapy.

What is Sclerotherapy?

Prominent leg veins can be treated using several methods, depending on the size of the vessels. Small vessels, also known as broken capillaries, spider veins, or telangiectasias, are commonly treated with sclerotherapy. This procedure involves injecting a sclerosant medication into the unwanted veins. The medication causes the vessel to clot, and over the next few days or weeks, the body gradually dissolves the vessel. A very fine needle is used to inject the medication, ensuring precision and minimal discomfort.

Effective Sclerotherapy with Asclera®

At Kirn Plastic Surgery, we exclusively use the FDA-approved sclerosant, Asclera®, for sclerotherapy treatments. The amount of medication needed and the number of treatments required depend on the size and number of veins being treated. Multiple treatment sessions are typically necessary to achieve optimal results.

Post-Sclerotherapy Care and Guidelines

Sclerotherapy is performed in the office, usually taking 15 minutes or more per session. Following the treatment, the veins may appear clotted or bruised for a few days to a few weeks. It is crucial to avoid sun exposure after treatment, as this can lead to darkening of the treated areas. For this reason, many patients choose to undergo sclerotherapy in the fall and winter. To enhance the effectiveness of the treatment, support pantyhose or compression stockings are recommended for several days after each session.

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Please note that Kirn Plastic Surgery Center does not treat varicose veins. Facial veins and broken capillaries on the face are usually treated with the VersaPulse® laser.

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Dr. Kirn and Dr. Al Bayati are Plastic Surgeons devoted to advanced techniques in Cosmetic Surgery of the Face, Breast, and Body.

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Sclerotherapy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a treatment where a sclerosant medication is injected into an undesired blood vessel, causing the vessel to clot. Once clotted, the body naturally eliminates the vessel over time. Sclerotherapy is primarily used to treat small leg veins.

What medication is used for sclerotherapy?


At Kirn Plastic Surgery, we exclusively use Asclera® (polidocanol), which is FDA-approved for sclerotherapy. While other medications have been used in the past, we have found Asclera® to be the safest, most effective, and minimally painful option available.

Does sclerotherapy hurt?


Although a tiny needle is used to inject the Asclera®, most patients do not find sclerotherapy to be painful. The legs are not particularly sensitive, and the needles used for the treatment are very small, contributing to the overall comfort of the procedure.

How many sclerotherapy treatments will be needed?


Multiple treatment sessions are usually necessary to achieve optimal results with sclerotherapy. This is because most patients have more vessels to treat than can be addressed in a single session. Additionally, not every vessel that is injected will disappear after the first treatment.

How long does it take for the treated vessels to disappear after sclerotherapy?


Sclerotherapy sessions are typically performed every 4-6 weeks. Most of the vessels that are going to disappear will have done so within that interval.

When is the best time to do sclerotherapy?


We generally recommend starting sclerotherapy in the fall, once the weather cools and shorts or short dresses are no longer worn. Treated vessels often appear worse before they improve, and it takes 4-6 weeks for them to disappear. Since multiple sessions are usually required, it’s best to begin the process early, so it’s complete well before springtime.

Should I have sclerotherapy or laser for my leg veins?


In most cases, we find that sclerotherapy is better suited for treating leg veins, while laser treatments (such as VersaPulse®) are more effective for facial veins.

Is sclerotherapy used on the face?


Yes, sclerotherapy can occasionally be used on the face for vessels that do not respond to laser treatment. However, laser treatments are generally the preferred and most effective option for treating vessels on the face and neck.

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Meet Dr. David Kirn

Dr. David Kirn is an American Board of Plastic Surgery Certified Plastic Surgeon who is devoted to advanced techniques in Cosmetic Surgery of the Face, Breast, and Body. In private practice since 1998, he is located in a state-of-the-art facility which includes a full service skin care center. The practice is focused on personalized patient care and attention to detail. Where possible, Dr. Kirn utilizes minimally invasive procedures.

Meet Dr. Ahmed Al Bayati

Having completed his training in plastic surgery and serving as Chief Resident at the University of Kentucky, Dr. Al Bayati brings a wealth of expertise and dedication to his practice. His commitment to advancing patient care and achieving exceptional outcomes reflects his unwavering passion for plastic surgery.

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