Thread Vein Removal

FAQ's related to this procedure

How do I choose a thread vein removal treatment?

Thread veins are quite complex, so it's important to arrange a consultation with a SurgiCare specialist before making any decision. No treatment can be recommended without a proper assessment of your particular needs.

Your specialist will need to establish whether or not there is any connection between the superficial thread veins and any underlying varicose veins.

If there is such a connection, the varicose veins should be treated first otherwise there will be a high pressure within the flow of blood in the thread veins which will make them likely to reoccur after treatment.

For this reason, your best option may be a combination of treatment for varicose veins and injection sclerotherapy (thread vein removal) of larger thread veins.

SurgiCare has the facilities to carry out full Doppler ultrasound assessment of the leg vein systems prior to recommending an individual treatment plan.

About Laser Treatment

We only recommend laser treatment if the thread veins are less than 4mm in size.

1. Energy from the laser is absorbed by the blood in the veins, where it generates heat.
2. This heat degrades the lining of the blood vessel and causes the walls of the vessel to stick together and seal themselves off.
3. The vein is then gradually absorbed by the body and disappears.
4. Usually 2 or 3 treatments are adequate for any given area.

Is thread vein removal permanent?

In most cases the same veins will not reoccur, but new veins can appear at other sites over time and require treatment. Unfortunately, some people have a tendency to produce these unwanted veins and may continue to do so even after successful treatment.

Does thread vein removal hurt?

Most people cope well with laser thread vein treatment, but the larger the vein the more discomfort will be felt. For this reason we often apply a topical local anaesthetic cream before starting the procedure.

What happens after thread vein removal treatment?

• Immediately following treatment, the treated veins will become red and swollen but not painful.
• Occasionally small areas of blistering or crusting can occur. These reactions usually disappear within hours or a few days.
• The area should be kept well moisturised and away from sunlight.
• The treated veins take up to 8 weeks to disperse naturally in the body before you see the final result and any further treatments can be carried out.

Tell me about microsclerotherapy?

Microsclerotherapy is used to treat unwanted thread veins by injecting a non-toxic chemical through a very fine needle directly into the vein.

• This irritates the lining of the vein, causing the walls to stick together and prevent blood flowing through the vessel.
• Over time, the blood vessel is gradually absorbed by the body and disappears.
• After several treatments, a 50-90% improvement can be expected.
• In some cases a combination of sclerotherapy and laser treatment will provide the best results.