Thread/Varicose Vein Treatment

Thread/Varicose Vein Treatment (Microsclerotherapy)

Microsclerotherapy is the non surgical technique by which superficial (thread) veins can be removed from just below the surface of the skin. Microsclerotherapy works well for lower limb thread veins and thread veins on the body (below the level of the heart). It is not suitable for facial veins.

There are many reasons why thread veins or surface veins develop. There is a strong genetic component as well as hormonal involvement (e.g. veins can develop in relation to pregnancy).

It is important to identify the underlying cause of thread veins and to exclude the presence of varicose veins, which are best suited to surgical treatment.

How does it work?

A chemical is injected through a very fine needle into the vein. The chemical irritates the vein which is then removed by the body’s white blood cells.

These fine veins are not needed by the body because the main flow of venous blood goes through the deep veins within the muscles of the leg.

What does it treat?

Microsclerotherapy is excellent for veins that can be seen but not felt and also works well for veins that can be felt but are protected by good valves.

The benefits

Research shows that it is a more comfortable and as effective a treatment for leg veins as laser treatment.