Varicose Vein Treatment in Greenville, SC

Varicose veins can be a cosmetic concern, and they can also be uncomfortable. These enlarged, twisted veins, often appearing on legs, can cause aching and feelings of heaviness, impacting daily life. At Believe Image in Greenville, SC, our sclerotherapy treatments offer a minimally invasive way to address varicose veins. Our treatments are led by Kennedy and Darren West, and we always combine our medical expertise with a focus on your individual well-being. We strive to provide treatments that are not just about aesthetics but also enhancing your comfort and quality of life.

What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are veins that are often clearly visible under the skin because of their overly large and swollen appearance. They can twist and bulge along the calf or other areas and can be both a nuisance for the aesthetics of your legs, as well as a burden physically. They’re primarily found in legs due to the pressure of standing and walking upright and the effects of gravity.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Vein removal targets the underlying cause of varicose veins, which is typically faulty valves in veins. These valves, which normally prevent blood from flowing backward, can fail, causing blood to pool and veins to enlarge. Factors such as age, genetics, hormonal changes, prolonged standing or sitting, and obesity can contribute to the development of varicose veins.

Symptoms of Varicose Veins Beyond Cosmetics

Beyond their distinct appearance, symptoms of varicose veins can include discomforts like aching, throbbing varicose vein pain, and a feeling of heaviness in the legs. Some people may experience swelling, skin discoloration, and even itching and skin ulcers near the ankle, indicating more serious vascular issues. These symptoms reflect the veins’ inability to efficiently circulate blood, leading to physical discomfort and potential health concerns.

What Is the Difference Between Varicose Veins and Spider Veins?

Varicose veins and spider veins, while similar, have distinct differences. Varicose veins are larger, raised, and often painful. Spider veins are smaller and flat and appear as red or blue lines, resembling a spider’s web. They are usually cosmetic concerns without the physical symptoms associated with varicose veins and are often treated purely for aesthetic reasons.

Different Stages of Varicose Vein Severity

Varicose veins can vary in severity, from mild, visible veins that are more of a cosmetic concern to larger, more pronounced veins that can cause major discomfort. In the early stages, veins may appear as small, web-like patterns or slightly raised veins. As they progress, varicose veins may enlarge, become more visible, and start to feel heavy or achy, especially after standing or sitting for long periods. Advanced stages of varicose veins can bring swelling, skin discoloration, and skin ulcers around the ankles.

What Is Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a treatment that can treat varicose veins, and it has a longstanding reputation for effectiveness. This treatment involves injecting a solution, typically a salt-based sclerosant, directly into the varicose veins. The solution irritates the lining of the blood vessel, causing it to collapse. Eventually, the vessel becomes scar tissue that is eventually absorbed by the body. During this process, the blood is rerouted into veins that are working properly.

Why Is Sclerotherapy the Best Option?

Sclerotherapy is often considered one of the best options for treating smaller varicose veins because it is effective and non-invasive. It doesn’t require anesthesia and has a shorter recovery time compared to surgical options. Sclerotherapy can also alleviate symptoms like aching and swelling, offering both cosmetic and functional benefits. This treatment can be an ideal choice for those seeking a balance between efficacy and minimal downtime.

Benefits of Asclera® Sclerotherapy

Effective Treatment

Asclera sclerotherapy directly targets varicose veins, offering a high rate of effectiveness in reducing their appearance and associated symptoms. The treatment’s precision allows for targeted therapy, addressing specific problem areas. This treatment comes with a high rate of satisfaction with our patients.

FDA-Approved Treatment

Asclera is an FDA-approved treatment for removing varicose veins. This means that it has undergone extensive testing and has a strong reputation as an effective vein removal treatment. 

Long-Term Outcomes

This varicose vein treatment has long-term outcomes. By focusing on caring for existing veins to prevent further problems, patients can enjoy long-lasting relief from their symptoms.

Minimally Invasive

Asclera sclerotherapy offers a minimally invasive solution for treating varicose veins, which can be right for those who are not good candidates for surgical intervention. This treatment requires no incisions, which means less discomfort and quicker recovery times for our patients. With Asclera you can return to your daily activities with minimal downtime.

More Cost-Effective Than Surgery

While costs vary, Asclera sclerotherapy can often be a more cost-effective option than surgery. Surgical options often require longer recovery and higher costs, but sclerotherapy can achieve excellent results with fewer resources and less time off work.

Treatment Steps

Step One: Consultation and Vein Assessment

Before starting your varicose veins treatment, we’ll begin with a consultation and vein assessment. This helps us understand the nature of your veins, assess any symptoms you’re experiencing, and determine the areas that need attention. During this visit, we’ll discuss your goals for treatment and any questions you may have. We’ll also review your medical history to make sure Asclera sclerotherapy is a safe and effective option for you.

Step Two: Preparing for the Treatment

On the day of your treatment, we’ll prepare the treatment area by gently cleansing the skin. You may want to wear loose clothing. We will position you comfortably, making sure we have clear access to the veins we’ll be addressing so the procedure is as smooth and straightforward as possible.

Step Three: Injecting the Sclerosant Solution

With Asclera® sclerotherapy, treatment involves injecting a sclerosant solution directly into the varicose veins. We administer this carefully so the surrounding areas are unaffected. Each injection takes only a few seconds, and we work slowly to make sure you remain comfortable throughout. Depending on the extent of your veins, several injections may be needed to fully address the area.

Step Four: Vein Collapse and Blood Flow Adjustment

Once the sclerosant solution is injected, the vein walls gradually collapse, stopping blood flow within the treated vein. Your body will naturally reroute blood flow to healthier veins, which helps reduce visible symptoms and discomfort associated with varicose veins. This collapse process is gradual, and you may notice the vein fading over time as your body absorbs it.

Step Five: Immediate Post-Treatment Care

Right after treatment, we may apply a light massage to the treated area to encourage the solution to spread evenly. Compression bandages or stockings are typically recommended to maintain pressure on the veins and reduce any mild swelling. We’ll also encourage light walking, as it promotes circulation, but it’s best to avoid strenuous exercise for a few days to allow the treated veins to settle.

Step Six: Follow-Up Appointments

Follow-up appointments are an essential part of your treatment plan. These allow us to check your progress, monitor the treated veins, and address any additional areas if needed. For some patients, one session may be sufficient, while others may benefit from multiple treatments spaced a few weeks apart. We’ll work with you to schedule these appointments so that you achieve the best possible results from your varicose veins treatment.