Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure that reduces the appearance of varicose and spider veins with the aid of an injection. Sclerotherapy vein treatments take around ten to thirty minutes and can be performed in your doctor’s office as an outpatient procedure.
How Does Sclerotherapy Work?
The patient is injected with a sclerosing agent as pressure is applied to the injected area. While the procedure is relatively painless & doesn’t require anesthesia, it is common to experience a mild burning sensation following the injection. The targeted vein swells and either sticks to adjacent veins or scars, forcing blood to reroute through other nearby veins. As the vein heals, scarred veins fade as they are reabsorbed by body tissues.
Oftentimes more than one Sclerotherapy injection is required to minimize the appearance of varicose and spider veins.
Who Should Consider Sclerotherapy For Vein Treatment?
Sclerotherapy vein treatment is a viable option for anyone with varicose or spider veins. Unsure if you’re a candidate? Click here to complete a virtual vein screening!
Patients with venous insufficiency are ideal candidates for Sclerotherapy, however, only a qualified physician can determine whether this procedure is suitable for you. Factors such as pregnancy and blood clots can prevent patients from being eligible for Sclerotherapy treatments.
Are There Any Risks Or Side Effects?
Sclerotherapy vein treatment does have some mild side effects, including…
- itchiness or swelling around the injected area within 48 hours of the procedure
- slight temporary bruising
How To Prepare For A Sclerotherapy Treatment
Preparation for the procedure is essential as it increases the chances of its success. When you book an appointment with us, we will provide you with some tips on how to prepare for your Sclerotherapy treatment. Oftentimes this includes…
- Submitting a complete medical record
- Avoiding shaving and applying lotion 24 hours before your procedure.
- Wearing comfortable and loose clothing on the day of your appointment.
- Avoiding medication such as blood thinners prior to the procedure.
What To Do After Your Sclerotherapy Treatment
Patients are mobile immediately following the treatment. The recovery process can be streamlined by…
- avoiding strenuous leg activity for 5 to 10 days
- using compression socks to aid the healing process
- avoiding anti-inflammatory medication & hot baths for 48 hours after the procedure
- keeping your legs away from direct sunlight
Sclerotherapy is an outpatient procedure and doesn’t require significant recovery time. Patients typically see positive results from the procedure within three to six weeks. Larger veins can require more time to show results from Sclerotherapy treatment.
Sclerotherapy vein treatment is an effective and quick procedure that can help treat spider and varicose veins. Curious about learning more? Click here for a free virtual vein consultation. It only takes 5 minutes!
