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L’Atelier Aesthetics - London Aesthetic Clinic

What Are Thread Veins and How Are They Removed?

As we head towards summer most of us start thinking about ditching our coats and jumpers and getting our shorts and flip flops out of hibernation, unfortunately this prospect can be less than welcome to those of us who have spider or thread veins on our legs. Many of our clients feel very self-conscious about these superficial blemishes and that can really take the fun out of an otherwise lovely warm summer’s day.

Fortunately, this is an issue we’re able to resolve effectively and expertly with microsclerotherapy. This advanced treatment involves a sclerosant being injected into the vein. This causes the vein to collapse, eventually fading away in the months after treatment leaving skin looking clearer and younger. At L’Atelier Aesthetics skin clinic we love nothing more than seeing our client’s smiling faces as their legs improve before their very eyes.

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What are thread veins and how can we treat them:

Thread veins are tiny veins that run just below the surface of the skin, making it look red and bumpy. They typically appear on the face or legs and are sometimes referred to as ‘spider veins’. While they are usually harmless, many people find them unsightly and want to get rid of them. Lots of factors contribute to their formation including ageing, hormonal changes, alcohol and smoking.

Microsclerotherapy is an evidence-based procedure for the effective treatment of leg thread veins (it can also be used on the body as long as the veins are below the heart). A solution is injected into the thread veins using a very fine needle. This causes the vein’s wall to swell and in turn, stops blood flow in the vessel. The vein then disappears.

As an Interventional Radiologist, I am a specialist in venous (vein) disease. I will carry out a clinical venous assessment to make sure that there are no underlying varicose veins before talking through the best treatment method.

If there are any varicose veins, we can discuss our varicose vein treatments (which I’ll also cover in a future blog)
A few questions answered;

What does thread vein treatment involve?

Thread vein treatment typically involves a procedure called sclerotherapy. During this procedure, a sclerosant (a type of medicine) is injected into the affected vein using a very fine needle. The sclerosant causes the vein to collapse and eventually fade away, leaving behind smoother and healthier-looking skin. Generally, several treatments are needed to achieve the desired results.

How long do the results last?

The effects are usually permanent, although it’s possible for thread veins to form as they may have anyway at a later stage. It usually takes 6 to 8 weeks for optimum results and you may need more than 1 treatment. However, it is important to remember that results may vary depending on the individual and the treatment plan.

How long does the treatment take?

Thread vein treatment typically takes around 30 minutes. It involves the use of a small laser which is passed over the affected area. As the laser passes over the skin, the thread veins are broken down and reabsorbed by the body. The area may be slightly red and swollen following the treatment, but this should subside quickly. Results can usually be seen within three weeks.

Does thread vein treatment hurt?

Thread vein treatment can involve a variety of techniques, such as laser, microsclerotherapy and radiofrequency ablation. Generally, the treatment does not cause pain but there may be some mild discomfort, stinging, or itching during the procedure. After the treatment, there may be swelling, bruising, and itching at the treatment site. These effects are usually temporary and should resolve within a couple of days.

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How do I care for the area after treatment?

After thread vein treatment, it is important to take care of the treated area to promote healing and reduce discomfort. Here are some tips for caring for the area after thread vein treatment:

  • Apply a warm, moist compress a few times a day to relieve discomfort and promote healing.
  • Perform gentle massage to assist with healing.
  • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes, and bring compression stockings if your doctor recommends them.
  • Prop up your leg on a pillow when you ice it or rest.
  • Put ice or a cold pack on your leg for 10 to 20 minutes at a time every few hours to reduce pain.
  • Avoid running or vigorous activity, and no weight-bearing exercises specific to the legs and arms, as those will exert extra force onto the lower extremities.
  • Walking is encouraged, and treadmill use is acceptable.
  • Avoid sun exposure to the area until the bruise goes away.
  • Regular exercise, weight control, and the use of support stockings (if practical) are recommended between treatments and after treatment.

It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions for post-procedure care to ensure a successful recovery. If you experience any problems or have questions, be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line for guidance

Is it safe?

Thread vein removal treatments are generally safe and effective, with a low risk of complications. The most common treatments for thread veins include microsclerotherapy, and intense pulse light treatment (IPLT). These treatments are non-invasive, have an excellent safety record, and require no downtime. Most patients can expect at least a 70-100% improvement in the appearance of their legs after treatment, which may take up to 3 months depending on the number and severity of the veins. As with any procedure, there are risks of complications, but these risks are very low. Patients should be aware of the risks and benefits of each treatment option and discuss them with their healthcare provider before undergoing any procedure.

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Whichever method you choose, it’s important to talk to your doctor first to make sure it’s the right option for you. With the right treatment, you can safely and effectively remove those pesky thread veins and get the smooth and even skin you’ve been dreaming of. To begin your thread vein treatment, contact our London skin experts today!

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    L’Atelier Aesthetics - London Aesthetic Clinic