Dr Ashok Gupta - Foam Sclerotherapy for Varicose Veins Treatment
What is Foam Sclerotherapy for Varicose Veins?
Foam sclerotherapy is a non-surgical treatment for varicose and spider veins. It involves injecting a specialised foam solution into the affected veins. The sclerosant solution irritates the inner lining of the vein, leading it to collapse and gradually be absorbed by the body.
As time passes, the treated veins fade, enhancing the skin’s appearance and relieving the discomfort caused by varicose veins. Foam sclerotherapy, unlike traditional sclerotherapy, which uses liquid solutions, is considered an effective method for treating too large or deep veins.
The foam consistency allows the treatment to be spread over a larger surface area within the vein, ensuring a more effective and lasting result.
How does Foam Sclerotherapy Work?
The foam sclerotherapy procedure involves a carefully formulated sclerosant solution mixed with air or carbon dioxide to create foam. The foam is injected directly into the problematic vein using a fine needle.
Once injected, the foam adheres to the walls of the vein and causes the blood vessels to constrict and collapse. This process leads to the gradual destruction of the vein, which eventually fades away, improving both the function and appearance of the legs.
Foam treatment is highly effective for varicose and spider veins. It is an outpatient procedure, meaning there’s no need for an overnight hospital stay. Foam vein treatment typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the severity and number of varicose veins being addressed.
What happens to Veins after Foam Sclerotherapy?
After foam sclerotherapy, the treated veins begin to close off and are gradually reabsorbed by the body. Over time, the veins lose their colour and eventually disappear, typically within a few weeks to a few months.
During this period, the body reroutes the blood flow through healthier veins, improving circulation. Mild bruising or discomfort may occur in some patients, but these symptoms usually resolve within a few days.
It’s important to note that foam sclerotherapy effectively eliminates veins, but lifestyle changes such as weight management and regular exercise can help maintain results.
What is the difference between Foam Sclerotherapy and Sclerotherapy?
Foam Sclerotherapy vs. Traditional Sclerotherapy
Feature | Foam Sclerotherapy | Traditional Sclerotherapy |
Sclerosant Form | Foam (gas and liquid mixture) | Liquid sclerosant |
Effectiveness for Large Veins | More effective for larger, visible veins | Less effective for large veins |
Penetration | Penetrates deeper into veins, including more profound veins | Primarily effective for more superficial veins |
Surface Area Coverage | Covers a larger surface area inside the vein | Limited surface area coverage in veins |
Use for Deep Veins | Can be used for veins deeper within the skin | Less effective for deeper veins |
Injection Volume | Typically requires a smaller injection volume | A larger volume may be needed for larger veins |
Treatment Duration | Often quicker, as foam covers more area faster | May take longer for larger veins |
Ideal for | Prominent varicose veins, larger veins | Smaller veins or more superficial veins |
Risk of Complications | Slightly higher risk of foam-related side effects (e.g., foam migration) | Lower risk of complications, but more injections may be required for larger veins |
Procedure Complexity | Requires more skill to create foam and inject | Easier to perform with a liquid solution |
Cost | Typically higher due to specialised equipment | Generally more affordable and simpler |
The Foam Procedure for Varicose Veins
The foam sclerotherapy procedure is minimally invasive, requiring no major incisions or cuts. Here’s an overview of what you can expect during the procedure:
Consultation: Before proceeding with the treatment, Dr Ashok Gupta will examine your veins, go over your medical history, and propose the ideal treatment plan for you.
Preparation: During the procedure, you will be asked to lie down with your legs elevated to help the veins become more visible and easily accessible.
Injection of Foam: A sclerosant foam is injected into the targeted veins. The foam will cause the veins to constrict and eventually close.
Post-Treatment Care: After the foam sclerotherapy injection, a compression stocking is typically worn to help ensure that the foam remains in place and that blood flow is redirected correctly.
Within a few hours, most patients can continue with their normal activities, though heavy exercise should be avoided for a brief period.
Follow-Up: Dr Ashok Gupta will schedule follow-up visits to monitor progress and determine whether additional treatments are necessary.
Benefits of Foam Sclerotherapy
- Foam sclerotherapy offers a non-invasive alternative to surgery for varicose veins, allowing for a quicker recovery and minimal downtime.
- The side effects are usually temporary and mild, including slight bruising, swelling, or redness around where the injection was given.
- Foam sclerotherapy treats large varicose veins and veins deeper beneath the skin’s surface.
- Foam sclerotherapy is typically an outpatient procedure that requires little to no downtime. After treatment, most patients can quickly return to their usual routine.
- One of the most noticeable benefits of foam sclerotherapy is the improvement in the appearance of the skin. Treated veins fade over time, giving the legs a smoother, more youthful appearance.
How many sessions of Foam Sclerotherapy are needed for Spider Veins and Varicose Veins?
The number of foam sclerotherapy sessions needed is determined by the extent of the varicose veins and the area involved. Some patients achieve noticeable results after one session, but others may require several treatments.
Dr Ashok Gupta will evaluate your condition and propose a personalised treatment plan, generally recommending 2 to 3 sessions spaced weeks apart for the best possible outcome.
Is Foam Sclerotherapy Safe?
Foam sclerotherapy is generally considered safe, but like all medical procedures, it carries some risks. Rare side effects can include allergic reactions to the foam, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or skin pigmentation changes.
To minimise these risks, it is crucial to work with an experienced specialist like Dr Ashok Gupta, who will take all necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
Foam sclerotherapy for varicose veins is a practical, minimally invasive treatment option that offers significant relief from symptoms and cosmetic improvements.
Whether dealing with small spider veins or more prominent varicose veins, foam sclerotherapy provides a safe and efficient way to treat the condition without surgery. If you’re looking for a trusted vein specialist in Dubai, Dr Ashok Gupta offer expert care with personalised treatment plans to help you achieve the best results.
If you are searching for Foam sclerotherapy for spider veins near me— Schedule a consultation with Dr Ashok Gupta today. Let us help you take the first step towards healthier, more beautiful legs.
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