Microsclerotherapy is the non surgical technique by which superficial (thread) veins can be removed from just below the surface of the skin. Microsclerotherapy works well for lower limb thread veins and thread veins on the body (below the level of the heart). It is not suitable for facial veins.
There are many reasons why thread veins or surface veins develop. There is a strong genetic component as well as hormonal involvement (e.g. veins can develop in relation to pregnancy).
It is important to identify the underlying cause of thread veins and to exclude the presence of varicose veins, which are best suited to surgical treatment.
How does it work?
A chemical (e.g. polidocanol) is injected through a very fine needle into the vein. The chemical irritates the vein which is then removed by the body’s white blood cells.
These fine veins are not needed by the body because the main flow of venous blood goes through the deep veins within the muscles of the leg.
What does it treat?
Microsclerotherapy is excellent for veins that can be seen but not felt and also works well for veins that can be felt but are protected by good valves.
The benefits
Research shows that it is a more comfortable and as effective a treatment for leg veins as laser treatment.
Alternative and Combination treatments
Veins that can be seen but not felt
Are these type of veins suitable for treatment?
- Generally speaking, these type of veins would be suitable for treatment with microsclerotherapy.
- Excluding any underlying cause, which may require referral to a vascular surgeon
Who will not benefit?
- Varicose veins where the veins leak. These are better treated surgically.
Treatment at Wessex Skin
- We operate on a ‘see and treat’ basis, saving you time and money.
- You will be treated by Dr Catherine Fairris, Aesthetic specialist with extensive experience in treating visible veins
Veins that can be felt
Are these types of veins suitable for treatment?
- These type of veins may indicate underlying varicose veins
How should these veins be treated?
- Anyone with varicose veins where the veins leak. These are better treated surgically.
Consultation at the Wessex Skin Clinic
- Once Dr Catherine Fairris has examined you, if she feels that microsclerotherapy would not be suitable, she can refer you on to a more appropriate service.
More information about microsclerotherapy
What are the advantages of microsclerotherapy over laser treatment of leg veins?
- Research shows that it is a more comfortable and as effective a treatment for leg veins as laser treatment.
Is microsclerotherapy safe?
- Yes microsclerotherapy is very safe in well trained hands.
- Micrclerotherapy should not be used on the face because there are communications between the veins on the face and the veins inside the brain.
Does microsclerotherapy hurt?
- No, the small pin-pricks that are involved in microsclerotherapy are tolerated by all and are much more comfortable than laser treatment.
How should I prepare for microsclerotherapy treatment?
- There is no need to shave the leg or wax.
- Do not moisturize your legs on the day of treatment.
What is involved in microsclerotherapy treatment?
- The skin will be cleaned before treatment.
- You will then be given a series of injections with a very fine needle.
- Each injection clears a patch of veins the size of a 50p piece.
How will I look immediately after microsclerotherapy treatment?
- There may be some light bruising around injection points after treatment
Is there any important microsclerotherapy aftercare?
- The treatments will be more effective if you wear medium compression tights for at least 48 hours after each treatment.
How soon after the microsclerotherapy injections will I notice an improvement?
- The veins turn dark brown after treatment.
- The finer red veins will disappear after four to six weeks but the bigger blue ones can take several months to clear.
How many microsclerotherapy treatments will I need?
- Most people will need between 1-3 treatments given 4-6 weeks apart.
- You can reduce the number of treatment sessions needed by exercising the legs for 20 minutes a day between each treatment session.
How long does microsclerotherapy last?
- The veins that have been cleared do not grow back.
- However, some people will grow more veins and need repeat treatment every few years.
Does microsclerotherapy produce any side-effects?
Anticipated
- Itching: You may experience mild itching for 1-2 days after treatment.
- Brown lines: 10-15% of patients find that some veins do not clear within six weeks. Instead, these veins “remain” as mid-tan brown lines that last 6-12 months before clearing. Rarely, and usually around the ankle, the pigmentation is permanent.
- Finer veins: Some patients develop leashes of very fine veins as a result of treatment. These will usually disappear during further treatment sessions.
Unanticipated
- Ulcers: A small ulcer may develop at the site of one of the injections. It heals over 4-8 weeks to leave a small white scar.
- Allergies: Allergic reactions to the injections are serious but extremely rare. They only occur during the injection, which is why it is best to have the injections done in a well equipped clinic with medical help close at hand.
- Superficial thrombophlebitis occurs in approximately 0.1% of patients. It is uncomfortable, lasts 2-4 weeks but is not dangerous.
Who shouldn't have microsclerotherapy treatments?
- Microclerotherapy should be avoided during pregnancy.
- Microsclerotherapy should be approached with care if your ankles swell, or if you have had a deep vein thrombosis, a pulmonary embolus or a leg ulcer.
Why Choose Wessex Skin?
Complimentary consultations
Medical consultations with Dr Fairris require a £50 deposit to secure your appointment.
Discretion assured
Patient confidentiality is taken very seriously.
Premium products
Dr Fairris uses only market leading products
Experienced Doctor
All clinical treatments are delivered by a highly qualified and experienced Aesthetic Doctor.
Natural-looking results
We aim for subtle, natural-looking results
Convenient access
On-site parking and close to J10 of the M3.
Are you interested?
Contact the Wessex Skin Clinic today to book a consultation to with Dr Catherine Fairris