Telangiectasia, unsightly venous blemishes of the legs, are widenings of small diameter arteries and veins. They are located so high up in the skin that they are visible to the eye, and are difficult to cover with make-up. Sclerotherapy (sclero means "to scar") has a very low rate of allergy and side-effects. A detergent solution is injected into the tiny blood vessels. This irritates the vessel walls and makes them stick together, thus completely closing the small vein. As a result, venous blemishes become very light in color and many disappear.

What can I expect after injections?

15-30 seconds of mild discomfort at the site of the injection. Rarely, muscle cramps in calf or thigh muscles occur, which can last 5 to 10 minutes. A red raised bump with temporary flush around the blood vessel injected may also occur.

How soon do the vessels disappear?

Blemishes will fade or disappear within weeks, but some may need 1-3 months. New venous blemishes can occur at anytime. This technique does not prevent new blemishes from forming.

Are there any side effects?

Sometimes a small amount of solution will seep outside the blood vessel into the surrounding skin. This can cause a small bleb in the skin which heals quickly but can result in a small brown spot with a crust on top of it. These usually disappear, but sometimes may leave a small freckle- like area of pigmentation. These usually fade in 1-3 months. In rare instances, they do not fade. In very rare instances, new vessels at the site of injection may occur, although it is much more likely to occur with saline.

Mild bruises can occur if the wall of the blood vessel breaks, and blood leaks into surrounding tissue. The bruise usually clears in 1-3 weeks. Sometimes a clot develops at the injection site, particularly when larger blue veins are injected. These heal more quickly if this clot is removed within 1 or 2 weeks.

How often can I receive treatment?

This is variable. There will be a 2 week interval between your first and second treatments and then a 1 month period to assess response. If necessary, retreatment of previously treated areas can be done after 3-4 weeks of healing. After the 4th treatment, a rest period of 2 months is observed to allow complete healing.

How many treatments are necessary?

This depends on the number of vessels present and the response of each blood vessel. The average has been 4-7 treatment sessions, or until a pleasing cosmetic effect is achieved.

How long has this treatment been used?

For at least 20 years.

Will all my venous blemishes disappear completely?

In most cases, the smaller blemishes will disappear completely, while the larger conspicuous blemishes will become significantly lighter. This treatment will not stop new ones from forming. This new formation may be confused with the return of previously treated vessels.

If these injections do not work, are there other methods?

Yes. Laser treatment is very effective in many patients. Your evaluation will go into detail as to why one treatment, or a combination of treatments, may be the most effective for you.

What causes these blemishes?

No one knows for sure but they are much more common in women. Pregnancy, trauma, obesity, long periods of sitting and standing have been all considered causes.

Is there any way to prevent these?

Exercise, loss of weight and support hose will help, but it is impossible to prevent them.

What should I wear for the treatment?

Loose slacks that may be easily rolled up or shorts. Suitable drapes will be provided.

What are the pre-treatment instructions?

Eat a normal meal before treatment. Avoid asprin or asprin-containing compounds for at least 7 days before treatment. Do not shave your legs the day before treatment, and bring your support hose with you.

What are the post-treatment instructions?

Leave dressings in place for at least a half hour, or the little bit of bleeding has stopped. We recommend extra-support panty hose (for example, Hanes Alive) for at least 2 days after each treatment, during the day. Warm baths or showers are O.K. Do not take hot baths or showers for 48 hours.

Avoid strenuous running and physical activity for the first 48 hours. Do not pick any areas with your fingers. If small blood blisters develop (when blood is caught between 2 closed-off vessels), please call the office so that they can be nicked and removed. This is a very brief procedure, and is not painful.

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