The presence of spider veins near the surface of the skin can detract from the overall appearance in the area where they show.

Sclerotherapy is one of the most effective, tried and true techniques for eliminating varicose and spider veins. The problematic veins are injected with a formula called a sclerosant, causing them to gently close, and fade over time. The procedure is not generally performed on veins that may be needed for future medical procedures. Following treatment, patients are usually advised to avoid aerobic activity for several days.

Sclerotherapy is a treatment that can reduce and eliminate the appearance of varicose and spider veins. Sometimes blood may not circulate through certain veins properly or quickly enough and result in slight pooling of blood. When this happens in the superficial layers of skin, they can become distracting and call unwanted attention to themselves. Varicose veins are large and bulge out slightly from the skin. Spider veins are thinner, smaller veins that can’t be felt, rather they appear as starburst-like clusters or fine-lined mazes. The medical term for these veins is “telangiectasias.” These veins typically appear on the legs.

Veins that have been eliminated will not return; however, new ones may appear. About 50 to 80 percent of treated veins are eliminated with each sclerotherapy session. Some veins are not responsive to the sclerotherapy treatment. Alternative laser therapy may be used to address unreactive spider veins.

In general, physicians don’t use sclerotherapy for veins such as the saphenous veins, because they may be needed later in life for surgery. For safety reasons, we do not perform sclerotherapy on pregnant women or nursing mothers. Following the procedure, we may recommend that patients avoid aerobic activity for a few days.

For more information about Cosmetic Services, or to schedule an appointment, call DSA Dermatology at (972) 362-9567.

Sclerotherapy FAQ

Using the VIVACE RF Microneedling device for skin rejuvenation

If you are seeking a quality skin rejuvenation treatment, we encourage you to learn more about the VIVACE RF microneedling service available at our Plano, Texas, dermatology practice. Drs. D. Achtman, C. McConnell, and J. Achtman of DSA Dermatology can educate you on the benefits of using these skin tightening and rejuvenation services to look and feel your best!

What is the VIVACE laser treatment and how does it work?

The VIVACE Microneedling/Radio-Frequency device can reduce acne scars in any skin type, especially skin of colour, as well as providing general anti-aging benefits and skin with an almost painless procedure, with a very rapid recovery time. The vivace uses micro-needling in a stamp-like applicator, which increases collagen production in the more superficial layer of the skin, like traditional microneedling devices. Then, the extremely fine insulated gold needles are also able to deliver controlled radio wave impulses, which produce controlled heat, which stimulates increased collagen production at a much deeper level without any injury to the superficial skin. All of this allows your skin to safely begin remodeling itself in a more healing and youthful fashion at both a superficial and deep level to achieve maximum results from your experience.

What can I expect from my VIVACE laser treatment session?

When you come in, your photo will be taken, your skin will be cleaned, and a numbing cream will be applied for 30-45 minutes. We may also ask you to clean your nose and apply an antibiotic cream to your nose to avoid the possibility of bacterial contamination. We also provide antiviral medication to be taken to prevent a cold sore, fever blister, or herpetic outbreak on the face. Your anesthetic cream will then be removed and your face re-cleaned so you may begin your treatment.

Your treatment will last 30-45 minutes. Your skin will be kept cool and comfortable during this time with a cold air-blowing device. We will put protective eyewear on you during the treatment. All of these procedures are done to make sure that no infection will occur. You may experience a pressure or vibration feeling every time the device engages with your skin, and this lets you know that the device is doing its job!

What is recovery like?

Recovery can be within 6-24 hours with the use of the correct products. You will be given some post-op-recovery products to use for the first few days, and it is very important that you use no other products during this time.

How long does it take to get results, and how many sessions do I need?

To get maximum results, three to four VIVACE treatments are recommended every four to six weeks apart, depending on the intensity of your treatment and your skin type. Many people will begin to see results after the first treatment. Some results may be seen immediately, as well as a continued long-term improvement over a three-month period as the full collagen regeneration takes place.

At DSA Dermatology of Plano, TX, we work with patients ready to learn more about today’s amazing technology and ways it can be used as a skin rejuvenation treatment. If you are interested in VIVACE skin tightening services at our practice, call us today at (972) 362-9567 to request an appointment at our office, located at 5072 West Plano Parkway, Suite #150. We are open to new and current patients and families.

Satisfied Customer feedback from Vivace

“I had the “Vivace Experience” about a month ago and was thrilled! I’ve had other microneedling procedures before, but wasn’t sure what to expect with this device. The clinician asked me several times during the process to report my pain level between 1 and 5. Repeatedly I had difficulty answering because most of the time I wasn’t feeling anything that I would label as “pain,” despite the fact that she had put the machine on its maximum settings. Immediately following the treatment, I went out to dinner (without makeup) and friends were commenting on how great my skin looked. In the weeks since, I’ve noted positive changes and feel that the benefits of the Vivace seem to be much greater than what I’ve experienced in the past with regular microneedling.”

– DF, Marketing Professional, courtesy of VIVACE

Learn more about the XTRAC Excimer laser treatment device used in Plano, TX dermatology office

The team at DSA Dermatology in Plano, Texas, reinvests into the practice to ensure patients have access to state-of-the-art solutions available for their skin and body. This includes the inclusion of the XTRAC Excimer laser treatment readily available in our facility. Our doctors can discuss with patients the benefits of this service and offer it as a solution for a myriad of skin concerns.

What is the XTRAC Excimer laser treatment?

The XTRAC Excimer laser treatment is an FDA-cleared, clinically proven treatment for conditions such as psoriasis and vitiligo. The XTRAC laser uses ultraviolet B (UVB) light to target and treat the affected areas of the skin. The XTRAC laser is safe and effective and has been shown to provide significant relief from the symptoms of various skin conditions that can impact the body.

What conditions can the XTRAC Excimer laser treat?

Below are just a few of the more common conditions addressed using the Excimer treatment:

• Psoriasis (build-up of plaque due to excessive skin cell production)
• Vitiligo (a condition when white patches develop on the skin)
• Atopic dermatitis (eczema and itching of the skin)
• Granuloma Annulare (rings of pink or purple that can develop on hands, feet, etc.)
• Pruritus (itching)
• Mycosis Fungoides (less commonly treated with this laser)
• Great for scalp or small stubborn areas

What can I expect during my appointment?

This device is recommended for smaller, localized areas. It is a smaller device that the operator can point and shoot to the spots such as the scalp or areas difficult to reach, such as in body folds and more. Patients are treated two to three times a week and must have a full day in between treatments. Progress should be seen in eight to 12 treatments or four to six weeks, but for very resistant conditions, the treatment can continue for six to 12 months.

How much does this treatment cost?

For many of our patients, insurance plans will cover treatments. However, those without medical insurance or who need to pay out of pocket will be happy to learn that we provide a wide range of financing plans and payment options to ensure these treatments are attainable.

How do I learn more about the XTRAC Excimer laser treatment?

If you are struggling with certain conditions like vitiligo and psoriasis, treatments using our XTRAC Excimer laser may be recommended. Call our practice today at (972) 362-9567 to request a consultation visit with our team. Our office is located at 5072 West Plano Parkway, Suite #150, and is open to new patients.

Why choose the UVB phototherapy treatment for addressing common skin conditions

At DSA Dermatology of Plano, Texas, we help patients achieve beautiful, healthy skin with some of the most advanced laser and light treatments and therapies available on the market today. We have several light-based treatments used in our office, including our UVB phototherapy treatment for skin rejuvenation and improvement. This state-of-the-art light treatment addresses a wide range of special skin conditions by using laser light energy to penetrate deep below the skin.

What can the UVB phototherapy device treat?

The below conditions can be improved with the use of the UVB phototherapy device:

• Atopic dermatitis (eczema or dry skin)
• Itching or chronic pruritus
• Allergic contact dermatitis
• Vitiligo (white patches on skin)
• Psoriasis
• Purpura (chronic red or purple spots that don’t blanch when pressed upon on your skin)
• Mycosis Fungoides (lymphoma of the skin)
• Morphea (white or pink skin patches anywhere on the body that can become thickened texture)
• CT-C Lymphoma
• Granuloma Annulare (ring-like areas of small pink or purple bumps that appear on the back of the hands, feet, elbows, or ankles)
• Grover’s Disease (a rare disorder with small, firm, red raised bumps on the chest or back)
• Other problematic dermatitis that is resistant to regular treatments

What can I expect from my phototherapy treatment session, and how many do I need?

This laser is, as it says, a “big box” giant stand-up booth that is self-operated and delivers one overall required dose. This treatment suits patients that are large in size or are looking to treat widespread areas all at the same time. Often mineral oil or Vaseline is used first to enhance the treatment. Patients can do this treatment two to three times a week but must have a day in-between treatments. Patients can see progress after eight to 12 treatments or four to six weeks. For chronic long-term conditions, the patient can be treated for months, or years, to maintain control of the skin symptoms.

How much do these treatments cost?

Ultraviolet light treatments are often covered by most insurance plans. If you do not have insurance or your plan does not offer coverage, we provide flexible payment plans and specialized financing options to make this treatment attainable.

Request time to speak with our team today!

If you are considering the benefits of UVB light therapy for the treatment of vitiligo, psoriasis, eczema, and other common skin disorders, connect with Drs. D. Achtman and J. Achtman of Plano, TX, to discuss your needs. Our team at DSA Dermatology can be reached by calling (972) 362-9567 and visiting our dermatology office conveniently located at 5072 West Plano Parkway, Suite #150.

What is BLU-U Light Therapy and How Does it Work?

At DSA Dermatology of Plano, Texas, we help patients with conditions such as acne, Actinic Keratosis, and other skin concerns find solutions to improve their skin’s health and appearance. For many of our patients struggling with acne, we may recommend our BLU-U light therapy. This treatment uses light-based treatment combined with a compound called Levulan to rejuvenate the skin and remove damaged cells while also combating bacteria that may reside on the skin to reduce acne and improve pre-cancerous areas of Actinic Keratosis.

Conditions for treatment

• Actinic Keratosis (pre-cancer scaly red spots)
• Acne (Cystic) or resistant inflammatory acne
• Aging skin. PDT with Levulan and Blu-U can treat difficult fine wrinkles, skin roughness, sun/actinic damage, and mottled hyperpigmentation. It cannot be used for melasma.

What to expect during a Blue Light Therapy treatment session for acne, Actinic Keratosis, or other skin conditions

Generally, after cleansing, the treatment area will be applied with Levulan, a clear liquid compound. Levulan can cover a wide area or be used only on spots. It allows the Blu-U light to penetrate much more deeply into the skin, especially the damaged or inflamed areas. PDT in acne works by destroying the bacterial component in inflammatory or cystic acne and helps the skin to start repairing itself. Similarly, with Actinic Keratosis or the pre-cancer spots, the Levulan allows the Blu-U light therapy to eradicate the damaged cells and allows the skin to start repairing itself. Although this is an aggressive treatment for aging, it works in a similar fashion by eliminating old, damaged cells and helping the skin to start making more collagen and elastin and begin to remodel some of the signs of aging.

How does the Blu-U treatment work?

Generally, Blu-U is always used in combination with the sensitizing agent Levulan (levulinic acid). The Blu-U then activates the Levulan to target specific areas it has been applied to.

How many treatments do I need?

Treatments are usually done two times and spaced three to four weeks apart. You must be over the age of 15 years to have this treatment. Acne patients can choose to do the “blue light” therapy with the Blu-U only without the Levulan. It generally takes four to five sessions spaced one week apart. In this way, it is typically less effective than using the Levulan-Blu-U combination.

A note about sunscreen and skin protection following treatment

When using the Blu-U and Levulan you must wear sunscreen and avoid direct sunlight/sun exposure for 48hours after your treatment. If possible, you are advised to remain indoors during sunlight hours for two days (48 hours). Inappropriate exposure to sunlight can cause severe sunburn with possible peeling, redness, and swelling. Your sunscreen will not protect you from this reaction if you expose your skin to direct sunlight within 48 hours after your treatment.

How much does this treatment cost?

Insurance sometimes covers this treatment. Depending on the insurance, they may cover the Blu-U, the Levulan, or both, or neither. Our office can easily tell you if your insurance will cover this treatment, and if not, what the cost will be to you before you decide to have the treatment.

How do I learn more?

Drs. D. Achtman and J. Achtman of DSA Dermatology in Plano, TX, advise patients to learn more about the unique technology used in our office to achieve healthy and beautiful skin! Call (972) 362-9567 to request an appointment at 5072 West Plano Parkway, Suite #150.