Sclerotherapy is a treatment used to address spider veins and small varicose veins. This procedure involves injecting a special solution directly into the targeted veins. Here is more information on how sclerotherapy works, what you can expect before and after treatment, and the kind of results you might see from the procedure:
Understanding Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy takes place in a clinic or medical office. You will sit or lie in a position that gives your provider easy access to the veins being treated. The provider will first clean your skin. Then, using a very fine needle, a sclerosing solution is injected into the vein. This solution causes the inner lining of the vein to become irritated, which makes the vein walls stick together and collapse.
Over time, the body absorbs the closed vein, and blood uses nearby healthy veins instead. The procedure is minimally invasive, and most patients experience little to no discomfort. The number of injections and how many veins are treated in each session will depend on your specific needs. Most sessions take about 15 to 30 minutes, and multiple sessions may be required for optimal results.
Preparing for the Procedure
During the procedure, you may notice mild discomfort or cramping for a minute or two when the needle enters the vein and the solution goes in. This response depends on your individual sensitivity and the size of the vein. After finishing the injections, your provider may massage the treated area and use compression to help distribute the solution.
You can usually resume everyday activities the same day. Your provider will probably recommend wearing compression stockings for a period after the treatment. This helps support the treated area. Regular walking is encouraged to help circulation. For a few days, you may need to avoid strenuous exercise, hot baths, saunas, or extended time in the sun.
Exploring Potential Outcomes
Sclerotherapy results develop in stages. Smaller spider veins may begin to fade within three to six weeks. Larger varicose veins might take three to four months to show the full effects. As the body absorbs the treated veins, their appearance gradually decreases. Sometimes, several sessions may be necessary to achieve your goals.
Multiple appointments are usually spaced several weeks apart. The effectiveness of the procedure can depend on factors such as the size of the veins and your body’s healing ability. New veins can appear over time since sclerotherapy only targets existing spider or varicose veins, not future ones.
Find a Vascular Specialist
Sclerotherapy is a clinic-based treatment that targets visible veins with simple injections. Most people can get back to their regular routine right after the procedure, with a few care steps like using compression stockings and staying active. Results will show gradually as treated veins fade. In some cases, you might need more than one session to reach the appearance you want. This procedure gives providers a straightforward technique for improving the look of spider veins and small varicose veins, using clear steps and everyday follow-up care. For more information on proper vein care, consult with a vascular surgeon.