Varicose veins can be embarrassing, but sclerotherapy can get rid of them for good. Unfortunately, discoloration can occur after vein treatment, resulting in brown marks on the skin. But how long does discoloration last after vein treatment.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins, which involves injecting the veins with a sclerosing agent that irritates the lining and closes offthe vein.
How long does discoloration last after vein treatment
Skin discoloration or hyperpigmentation is a potential side-effect of sclerotherapy treatment, and often occurs when veins lie close to the surface of the skin. The discoloration is usually a brownish color.
Discoloration after vein treatmentis temporary in most cases, butdepending on the severity of the venous disease, it canpersist for several weeks. However, there are times when it can last for up to 6 months, and in a small percentage of patients, discoloration may be permanent.
What causes discoloration after vein treatment?
Hyperpigmentation after vein treatment is more common in patients with darker skin, as well as those with sensitive skin. The risk of discoloration is also higher in patients with deep vein reflux, as the condition causes the red blood cells to leak into the surrounding skin, resulting in discoloration over the area. Wearing compression garments after vein treatment decreases the leakage of blood vessels, and reducesdiscoloration.
To help minimize the potential for discoloration after vein treatment, patients are advised to have veins treated by an experienced vein specialist.
Would you like to learn more about vein treatment? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.
If you are in the Long Beach, CA area, Laser Skin Care Center Dermatology Associates is our featured practice.
You can reach them at www.lasercarespecialists.com, or by calling (562) 418-5251.