Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy treats both small and larger leg veins

Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical, injection therapy to improve the appearance of superficial and varicose veins in the legs. The procedure involves the injection of a solution into spider veins (smaller, red-purple in color), and reticular veins (larger, blue-green), causing disruption of the internal lining of the vein.

  • A small needle is used to inject the sclerosing solution into the vein with minimal discomfort. Most patients tend to describe the discomfort as “annoying” rather than painful.

    The Sclerotherapy solution works by forming a fibrous clot in the vein that is eventually eliminated through the body’s own healing process.

  • During your initial consultation your provider will do a thorough leg vein exam. While many patients present with uncomplicated leg veins, occasionally patients may be referred to a specialist for a complete evaluation, including an ultrasound exam. Some patients with a history of severe allergic reactions may require a test patch. Once your treatment plan is complete, treatments will be scheduled at a separate visit. 

    The treatment takes approximately 30-45 minutes, followed by placement of compression dressings if needed.

    Support stockings are recommended for up to one week after each treatment. Support stockings are used to reduce cosmetic downtime, improve healing times and prevent recurrence of small vessels after treatment.

  • After your initial Sclerotherapy treatment, the treated veins will fade in appearance within a few weeks, but often it may take up to a month or more to see the final result. Multiple treatments are usually required to achieve the desired outcome. Treatments are spaced 6 weeks or more apart to allow complete resolution of the veins treated during each treatment session.

    Cosmetic downtime can range from a few weeks to a month or more, depending on your individual healing process. It is important to schedule time to complete a series of 2-3 treatments and the possible downtime when planning for important social events. Usually, patients begin leg vein treatments in the fall, so as to be ready for spring and summer weather.