About 8 months ago, I had surgery to remove veins from my legs. As a touch-up to some spider veins, sclerotherapy was performed on my legs. I have since developed hyperpigmentation in these treated areas on both of my legs. I think it may be because I let my legs get sun after about one week after the Sclerotherapy. It seems that I just can't win with getting my legs to look healthy again.
Nonetheless, I have been given HQRA from my Dr. for the hyperpigmentation. I am wondering how long it will take to go away? I am a 46 year old Caucasian female, fair to medium skin tone. I have high hopes for this to fade by summer (it's now Januay, but I don't want to get my hopes up if my chances are slim to none that this will fade). Please advise.
38 posts
8 Jan 2009
Hydroquinone may be useful in treating hyperpigmentation that was either caused by inflammation and trauma from the vein surgery, or hemosiderin staining from the sclerotherapy. However, it is a minimum of 3 months before you will appreciate a reduction. Sometimes intense pulsed light (Fotofacial, Photofacial, etc) may also be helpful in lifting the pigment. Be very diligent about avoiding the sun during this time as well. Good luck!
2 posts
23 Mar 2009
I am also a 46 year old white Caucasian who had sclarotherapy treatments. I was never told that after the waiting peroid of no sun that I would tan all blotchy. You no what the worst part is the treatment did'nt even work so now I still have the spider veins and terrible looking tanned legs!