Types of Veins
1 out of every 2 people will experience abnormal, dilated veins appearing on the legs. There are three common types, which are frequently seen in combination. ‘Spider veins’ are the finest and are usually fed by larger reticular veins’, which are under the skin. ‘Varicose’ veins are the largest and bulge above the skin surface and are due to a weakness in the vein wall.
Symptoms
Some of the symtoms linked with varicose veins include heaviness, burning, aching, stinging, throbbing, swollen ankles, restless legs and leg cramps. The presence of a skin rash, small blue veins on the feet, skin discolouration, ulcers and scarring is usually due to advancing vein problems. Treating the abnormal veins will significantly improve symptoms for the majority of patients.
Why do abnormal veins develop?
A definitive cause is not known, however a strong family history, oestrogen during puberty, pregnancy and taking the oral contraceptive can give rise to vein abnormalities. Obesity , prolonged and regular standing tend to increase the
likelihood of veins to develop. Bone fractures and soft tissue trauma can cause localized vein abnormalities.
Can vein problems be prevented?
A healthy diet and lifestyle, normal weight and exercise regularly minimize the likelihood of development of vein problems. Wearing specialized venous support stockings may ease symptoms and slow the progression of abnormal veins, however no specific preventative treatment exists.
Non-surgical Treatment
There are 3 main treatment methods available:
1. Direct vision microsclerotherapy for the treatment of small veins including spider veins.
2. Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy for the treatment of medium sized veins and bulging varicose veins and some hidden veins.
3. Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLTTM) -for large hidden varicose veins previously treated with surgical stripping.
Majority patients will require a combination of the first 2 methods however some will require the laser therapy.
At Nitai Medical & Cosmetic Centre Microsclerotherapy and Sclerotherapy treatments are offered. Referral to local Specialists for Endovenous Laser Therapy can be given if required.
Microsclerotherapy of surface veins
Surface veins are often numerous requiring several treatments. Sclerotherapy, which is an injection of a sclerosant detergent solution through a tiny needle into the diseased vein is used for the treatment of small reticular and spider veins. As a result the vein wall collapses causing the veins to dissolve and disappear as the body gradually absorbs them.
The above video shows Dr Shobhna Singh injecting to treat visible vein concerns at Nitai Medical & Cosmetic Centre.
Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy (UGS) and the treatment of varicose veins
UGS is a safe and effective method for treating varicose veins without the need for hospitalization or an anaesthetic. Neither is there any surgical scarring and downtime negligible. Most patients with varicose veins are suitable for UGS. At Nitai Medical & Cosmetic Centre, a trained Sclerotherapist will determine your individual suitability during the course of the assessment. Some patients will require follow-up treatments to achieve the best results. Prior to treatment a duplex ultrasound scan is performed to establish and map out the exact nature of
the vein problem. The UGS procedure is performed using ultrasound technology to locate the hidden abnormal veins and allow the doctor to accurately and safely inject. The appearance of the treated veins rapidly improves over a few weeks with continued improvement still occurring for about three months.
Endogenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) for large varicose veins
EVLT is the latest method for the treatment of major veins previously treated by stripping surgery under general anaesthetic. Referral to local specialists in this field will be required if this treatment is necessary.
Compression Stockings
Following each treatment you will be required to wear a compression stocking to assist closure of the treated veins and protect against deep vein thrombosis (DVT) from three days to three weeks depending on the size of the veins injected and the treatment method used.
Possible Side Effects of Non-surgical Vein Treatments
Stinging sensation at the time of treatment can be experienced, which settles within minutes although many people find the treatment painless. Bruising, darkening of spider veins, tender Lumps, and aching in the legs for the first few days can also result.
Possible Complications of Non-surgical vein Treatment
Possible complications can occur with non-surgical vein treatment even when the greatest of care is taken. Pigmentation, Matting (development of extremely fine networks of Spider veins), swelling, numbness can result. Migraine sufferers may experience visual disturbances lasting a few minutes with sclerotherapy. Should you suffer with migranes then it is best to attend with a friend to assist with driving home. Ulcers are more common in people who smoke cigarettes or who have certain associated skin conditions. Other risks may present – these risks will be discussed during the consultation with our qualified Sclerotherapist.
Our Doctor at Nitai Medical and Cosmetic Centre specialises in the treatment of Varicose veins and spider veins. She is a Qualified Sclerotherapist, having received her qualifications from Australian College of Phlebology.
Sclerotherapy is a day procedure with minimal to no downtime. In many cases Medicare rebates may apply.
It typically takes 20-60 minutes for the treatment. Downtime is about a day, with full recovery taking several weeks with moderate exercise.
Spider veins visible around the eyes and nose as well as the cheeks, chin and upper body can be treated with a medical grade laser. At Nitai Medical & Cosmetic Centre, we offer this service.
A partial Medicare Rebate may apply.
To receive more specific advice and costs , we highly recommend making an appointment with our experienced doctor. Feedback from our patients suggests this really helps them in making the right decision about the potential treatment.
We Offer NO Obligation Consultations. For Vein treatments, the cost of the initial Consultation is largely covered by Medicare.
If you require assistance with your skin condition, we can help. We offer extremely competitive prices for treatment of leg veins.
Every patient presenting with a skin condition is reviewed by a doctor and an appropriate treatment and ongoing skin care plan is developed to suit your specific case.
To contact us please complete call (03) 9300 1244 or send us an email via our contact form. Your email will be forwarded to the appropriate staff member to respond.