How to remove hemosiderin staining caused by sclerotherapy? (Photo)

Question

I had my schlerotherapy last September 2014, the result is okay except the brownish stain, i think this is hemosiderin staining. Its been 7months now. How to treat this and how long will it take?

Jennifer Greer, MD · Answer

You are correct: the brownish staining you see is from hemosiderin. This is produced when hemoglobin is broken down, which is why you see the same color change as a bruise fades. The blood that is clotted in a vein after sclerotherapy takes much longer to be broken down, however, as you have noticed. I would still expect to see some improvement over the next several months, but laser treatments can speed this process along. Best of luck to you!

John Landi, MD · Answer

Post sclerotherapy staining unfortunately does occur and, in most instances, it will spontaneously lighten over a 2 year period.  I have found that evacuating  any clotted areas (even a year later) may give some improvement.  Also, looking for any open feeding veins to the area and closing them may help.  The Q switch laser and VenaFade and VenoLucent as mentioned in other posts may also help.

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.The vein is quite sizeable and perhaps you would have been best served with a microphlebectomy technique. Having said that, hyperpigmentation does occur with improper compression after the procedure and not following with a regimen of wearing compression stockings for 3 months. I understand that this is difficult in areas of your country with high humidity and heat. Going forward, q switched lasers and daily use of creams like Scleroquin. Perhaps you can have a friend from the U.S. ship you these products.Best,Dr. Karamanoukian

Richard Ort, MD · Answer

Q-switched lasers are usually helpful to treat this.  In my office, I would start with a Q-switched alexandrite laser.  Several treatment sessions might be necessary to see significant fading.

How to remove hemosiderin staining caused by sclerotherapy? (Photo)

Answers (4)

More Sclerotherapy Questions

Is it better to see a vascular surgeon or a dermatologist for broken capillaries?

Why do I have blue/purple veins on my thighs when I am only 17? (Photo)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (4)

More Sclerotherapy Questions

Is it better to see a vascular surgeon or a dermatologist for broken capillaries?

Why do I have blue/purple veins on my thighs when I am only 17? (Photo)

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS