Sclerotherapy is the standard treatment for varicose and spider veins. A special sclerosing solution is injected into the diseased vein, which then collapses and is gradually absorbed by the body. By the end of the treatment program, the veins are less visible on the skin surface. Sclerotherapy usually also relieves symptoms associated with enlarged veins and prevents further complications.

During an endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) procedure, a tiny fiber is inserted into the vein via a needle. Pulses of laser light cause the vein to collapse and seal shut, effectively reducing visibility on the skin surface and eliminating pain and other complications. EVLT is approved by the FDA for treatment of the greater saphenous vein, the largest vein in the body which runs through the leg. After treatment, the treated area is temporarily put in a compression bandage to keep the collapsed vein in place.

Ambulatory phlebectomy, also called microphlebectomy or stab avulsion, is a minimally invasive method of treating small varicose veins. A special hook is used to remove the vein through multiple tiny incisions that do not usually require stitches and leave minimal scarring. Recent advances have made it possible to perform the procedure using only local anesthesia and light sedation in a doctor’s office as an outpatient. After the ambulatory phlebectomy you will be asked to wear compression garments temporarily. The incisions typically heal within two weeks.

New technology allows us to treat spider veins without surgery or other procedures that require an extended hospital stay and long recovery. Laser ablation takes only 45 minutes in two sessions. The procedure is painless and does not require anesthesia. The laser aims carefully controlled pulses of narrow-wavelength light at the damaged veins. The veins absorb the light and heat up, then collapse and close. They are then gradually re-absorbed by the body. Normal activities can be resumed immediately.