Sclerotherapy staining on leg - what are my options to treat this? (photo)

Question

I had a combination of RF ablation and sclerotherapy 7 moths ago. I have significant staining on one leg. I am far more self conscious of this than I was of the small bulging vein that previously existed. What are my options to treat this? I have been using a hydroquinone cream daily for the last 5 months with zero improvement.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

For long-term improvement, we often complement Sclerotherapy with IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) photofacial and the Excel V laser, which treats both superficial and deep vascular conditions on all skin types. I suggest seeing an expert for a formal evaluation to determine if this is the best solution for you. Best, Dr. Emer

Elham Jafari, MD · Answer

Hi and thank you for your question! The treatment of choice for the discoloration will depend on its cause and nature. Hydroquinone works great against discoloration caused by increased melanin and the associated hyperpigmentation. However, if the discoloration is caused by other issues - e.g. potential vascular leak leading to hemosiderin staining, hydroquinone might not help much at all. In such a case, you might consider lasers or light-based treatments such as IPL to help with reducing the discoloration. I hope it helps and good luck!

David T. Jacobs, MD · Answer

Hi,This is an unfortunate outcome that occurs in a minority of patients after sclerotherapy. The key to avoiding skin staining is to reduce bruising after the procedure by applying an anti-bruising cream (such as arnica or Dermaka), and to evacuate any clotted blood within the treated veins. Once the skin is stained, it will often fade over the course of several months, and as you have been doing, hydroquinone can help accelerate that process. If these measures fail, a dermatologist can help. Often they will use an external laser or pulsed light on the skin to help break up the hyperpigmentation.

Sclerotherapy staining on leg - what are my options to treat this? (photo)

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Sclerotherapy staining on leg - what are my options to treat this? (photo)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Sclerotherapy

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.