New Injection for Small Varicose Veins Approved by the FDA

The FDA announced on March 31st that polidocanol (marketed in the US as Asclera) has been approved as a treatment for varicose veins. Asclera works its magic by damaging the cell lining in the blood vessels, causing them to close. Eventually the blood vessel is replaced by other types of tissue. The product is approved for veins less than 1 mm in diameter and reticular veins 1-3mm in diameter. (As a reference, there are 24 mm to one inch).

There are three primary types of venous problems: varicose veins, reticular veins and spider veins. Spider veins are generally very tiny, while varicose veins are quite noticeable and generally develop on the legs. Reticular veins are mild and generally cause little in the way of discomfort. Vein treatments generally include lasers, broad band light and/or sclerosing agents.

Few side effects were noted by the FDA, including leakage or blood collection from the injected vessels at the injection site, as well as potential for bruising, irritation, discoloration and discomfort at the injection site.

Good News and Bad News From New ASPS Study

From the study:

" -- 59% of respondents say the economy has had an impact on their
plans for cosmetic plastic surgery. That's up 9% from six
months ago.
-- 48% of the survey participants are less likely to schedule a
consultation appointment now compared to 30% six months ago.
-- 27% of the survey participants indicated they were considering
less expensive options, compared with 20% six months ago."

As for surgeons:
"
-- 62% report a decrease
-- Region most affected - Northeast and Southeast
-- Region least affected - Midwest
"
Cosmetic surgery by its very nature is a luxury, and this is not a shock to anyone. Dr. Pozner at Sanctuary Plastic Surgery still is very busy with correctional and revision surgery, which is a big priority for many patients. However, the silver lining here is for cosmetic dermatologists:

-- 73% (almost 3 out of 4) report an increased or stable demand for
procedures like Botox(R), chemical peels, and hyaluronic fillers.

This is why we're still booming: these procedures are less expensive, less invasive, less stressful, and people don't have to miss work to have them.

With these factors, lipstick might get replaced by Botox as the recession-proof cosmetic. According to the Wall Street Journal, lipstick sales are down 6% compared to 2007, while lip gloss is down 14%. At the same time, studies like this suggest that Botox use may very well increase.

Thank you,

Dr. David Goldberg
SMAC
Skin Laser & Surgery Specialists