Sclerotherapy
The gold standard treatment for spider veins and small varicose veins.
Sclerotherapy injections target small varicose veins (often referred to as spider veins), most often found on the legs. The treatment works by injecting the veins with a solution that will irritate the vein and cause inflammation, ultimately resulting in the vein collapsing and disappearing.
What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a proven, minimally invasive medical procedure that has been used for decades to eliminate unsightly reticular and spider veins. This FDA-approved treatment is considered the gold standard for treating these common vascular conditions, offering patients an effective solution to achieve smoother, clearer-looking legs.
The procedure involves the precise injection of a specialized sclerosing solution directly into the targeted veins. This solution causes the vein walls to become irritated and inflamed, leading them to stick together and eventually collapse. Over time, the treated veins are naturally absorbed by the body and fade from view, leaving behind smoother, more attractive skin.
After consulting with a provider, our office will customize a treatment plan that is right for you based on the number and size of the veins. Some patients may require more than one session to achieve optimum results. The number of sessions you may need will also be discussed in your consultation. Expectations and aftercare/post-treatment instructions will also be discussed.
Understanding Spider Veins and Varicose Veins
Spider Veins (Telangiectasias) Spider veins are small, damaged veins that appear close to the skin’s surface. They typically appear as thin, web-like clusters of red, blue, or purple lines and are usually less than 1mm in diameter. Common characteristics include:
- Fine, thread-like appearance
- Often found on legs, thighs, calves, and ankles
- Usually painless but can cause cosmetic concerns
- More common in women than men
Small Varicose Veins (Reticular Veins) These are slightly larger than spider veins, typically 1-3mm in diameter, and appear as blue or green veins just beneath the skin’s surface. They often feed into spider veins and may cause:
- Aching or burning sensations
- Leg fatigue
- Restless legs
- Cosmetic concerns
Causes and Risk Factors
Primary Causes:
- Heredity: Family history is the most significant risk factor
- Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menopause, and hormonal medications
- Age: Vein valves weaken over time
- Gender: Women are more susceptible due to hormonal factors
Contributing Factors:
- Prolonged standing or sitting
- Pregnancy and multiple pregnancies
- Weight gain
- Lack of physical activity
- Sun exposure (for facial spider veins)
- Tight clothing that restricts circulation
- High-impact activities that stress leg veins
How Sclerotherapy Works
The Science Behind Treatment:
- Injection: A fine needle delivers sclerosing solution directly into the vein
- Irritation: The solution irritates the vein lining (endothelium)
- Inflammation: The vein walls become inflamed and stick together
- Closure: The vein collapses and seals shut
- Absorption: Over weeks to months, the body naturally absorbs the treated vein
- Results: The vein fades and eventually disappears
Treatment Areas
Leg Areas:
- Thighs (inner and outer)
- Calves
- Ankles
- Feet
- Behind the knees
The Treatment Process
Initial Consultation During your comprehensive consultation, we will:
- Evaluate your vein condition and medical history
- Discuss your goals and expectations
- Examine the extent and pattern of your veins
- Determine if you're a good candidate for sclerotherapy
- Create a customized treatment plan
- Explain the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes
Pre-Treatment Preparation Before your sclerotherapy session:
- Avoid certain medications that increase bleeding risk
- Don't apply lotion to your legs on treatment day
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
- Bring compression stockings if previously prescribed
- Arrange transportation if needed
Treatment Session
- Sessions typically last 30-45 minutes
- You'll lie comfortably on the treatment table
- The treatment area is cleansed and prepared
- Using a very fine needle, the sclerosing solution is injected
- Multiple veins can be treated in one session
- Compression may be applied immediately after injection
- Post-treatment instructions are provided
Post-Treatment Care
- Compression stockings are typically worn for 1-2 weeks
- Walking is encouraged immediately after treatment
- Avoid strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours
- Keep treated areas out of direct sunlight
- Follow specific aftercare instructions
Expected Results and Timeline
Immediate Effects:
- Some veins may disappear immediately
- Temporary redness or bruising at injection sites
- Mild swelling or discomfort
Short-Term (2-6 weeks):
- Treated veins begin to fade
- Some temporary darkening (hyperpigmentation) may occur
- Gradual improvement in appearance
Long-Term (2-6 months):
- Maximum results become apparent
- Treated veins are significantly faded or completely gone
- Skin appearance is smoother and clearer
Treatment Sessions:
- Most patients require 2-4 treatment sessions
- Sessions are spaced 4-6 weeks apart
- Number of sessions depends on extent and severity of veins
- Touch-up treatments may be needed for optimal results
Benefits of Sclerotherapy
Aesthetic Improvements:
- Eliminates unsightly spider veins and small varicose veins
- Creates smoother, more attractive leg appearance
- Boosts confidence in wearing shorts, skirts, and swimwear
- Improves overall skin appearance
Medical Benefits:
- Reduces symptoms like aching, burning, and fatigue
- Prevents progression of vein disease
- Improves circulation in treated areas
- Minimally invasive with no surgery required
Lifestyle Advantages:
- Quick, in-office procedure
- Minimal downtime
- No general anesthesia required
- Can return to normal activities quickly
Ideal candidates
Sclerotherapy is suitable for individuals who:
Good Candidates:
- Have spider veins or small varicose veins
- Are in good overall health
- Have realistic expectations about results
- Are not pregnant or breastfeeding
- Don't have active blood clots
- Are committed to wearing compression stockings post-treatment
Excellent Candidates:
- Have well-defined, isolated spider veins
- Don't have underlying venous insufficiency
- Have good circulation
- Are willing to have multiple treatment sessions if needed
Post-Treatment Care Instructions
Immediately After Treatment:
- Walk for 15-20 minutes
- Put on compression stockings as directed
- Avoid sitting or standing for long periods
First 24-48 Hours:
- Wear compression stockings as prescribed
- Take short walks every few hours
- Avoid hot baths, saunas, or hot tubs
- No strenuous exercise or heavy lifting
- Keep legs elevated when resting
First 2 Weeks:
- Continue wearing compression stockings during the day
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure to treated areas
- Use sunscreen if sun exposure is unavoidable
- Resume normal activities gradually
- Follow up with your provider as scheduled
Long-Term Care:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Exercise regularly to improve circulation
- Wear compression stockings during long flights
- Elevate legs when possible
- Stay hydrated
FAQ's
How painful is sclerotherapy?
Most patients describe the discomfort as minimal, similar to a small pinprick. The sclerosing solution may cause a mild burning sensation that lasts only seconds.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments varies based on the extent of your veins. Most patients need 2-4 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart for optimal results.
When will I see results?
Some veins fade immediately, but full results typically take 2-6 months to appear as the body gradually absorbs the treated veins.
Can treated veins come back?
Once a vein is successfully treated with sclerotherapy, it cannot return. However, new spider veins may develop over time due to genetics and lifestyle factors.
Is there any downtime?
There’s minimal downtime. You can return to normal activities immediately, though strenuous exercise should be avoided for 24-48 hours.
Can I have sclerotherapy while pregnant?
Sclerotherapy is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It’s best to wait until after childbirth and breastfeeding are complete.
Will insurance cover sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy for cosmetic spider veins is typically not covered by insurance. However, treatment for symptomatic varicose veins may be covered if medically necessary.
What's the difference between sclerotherapy and laser treatment?
Sclerotherapy is generally more effective for spider veins and is considered the gold standard. Laser treatments are typically reserved for very small surface veins or as a complementary treatment.
Maintenance and Prevention
Preventing New Spider Veins:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Exercise regularly to improve circulation
- Avoid prolonged standing or sitting
- Wear compression stockings during long flights
- Elevate legs when resting
- Stay hydrated
- Protect legs from sun damage
Follow-Up Care:
- Annual evaluations to monitor for new vein development
- Touch-up treatments as needed
- Lifestyle counseling for vein health
- Compression stocking replacement as needed
Why Choose Swann Dermatology Partners for Sclerotherapy?
Expertise and Experience: Our team has extensive experience in sclerotherapy and vein treatment, ensuring safe, effective procedures with optimal results.
Personalized Treatment Plans: Every patient receives a customized treatment plan based on their specific vein pattern, lifestyle, and goals.
Advanced Techniques We use the latest sclerotherapy techniques and highest-quality sclerosing solutions for maximum effectiveness and patient comfort.
Comprehensive Care: From initial consultation through follow-up care, we provide complete support throughout your treatment journey.
Proven Results :Our patients consistently achieve excellent results with high satisfaction rates and minimal complications.
Ready to Say Goodbye to Spider Veins?
Don’t let unsightly spider veins keep you from feeling confident in your own skin. Sclerotherapy offers a safe, effective solution for achieving the smooth, clear legs you deserve. Our experienced team at Swann Dermatology Partners is ready to help you regain confidence and comfort in your appearance.
During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your veins, discuss your goals, and create a personalized treatment plan. Contact us today to learn more about sclerotherapy and take the first step toward beautiful, vein-free legs.
Sclero Before & After
Sclerotherapy Treatment Team
Our experienced nurse injector specializes in sclerotherapy treatments and has extensive training in vein assessment and injection techniques. Veronica’s expertise ensures safe, effective treatments with optimal results for every patient.
