Sclerotherapy for spider veins is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to treat small, superficial veins visible just beneath the skin's surface. During the procedure, a solution (sclerosant) is injected directly into the affected veins, causing them to shrink, collapse, and eventually fade from view. It's a common treatment for cosmetic improvement and relief from discomfort caused by spider veins.
Good candidates for sclerotherapy for spider veins include:
A consultation with a qualified healthcare provider is essential to assess individual candidacy, discuss treatment options, and address specific concerns and goals.
For spider veins, sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive treatment. Using a tiny needle, a sclerosing solution is injected straight into the targeted spider veins. The vein's lining becomes irritated by this solution, which finally causes the vein to collapse and be absorbed by the body. After treatment, the treated spider veins gradually disappear from view as blood flow is diverted to healthy veins. Multiple sessions may be necessary, depending on the extent of spider veins and individual response to treatment.
With your legs slightly elevated, the medical professional will first cleanse the area. A fine needle will then be inserted into the targeted vein whereby the injected solution will cause the vein walls to swell, stick together, and seal shut essentially stopping the flow of blood. In turn, the vein fades within a few weeks.
Some minor stinging or cramps may be expected when the needle is inserted into the vein. Be sure to inform your injector if you experience any discomfort.
Upon completion of the treatment, the medical professional will apply some compression and massage the treated area to ensure that your blood stays out of the injected vein.
After the injections, your doctor will apply compression and massage the treated area to keep blood out of the injected vein and disperse the solution. A compression pad may be taped onto the injection site to keep the area compressed.
Post-Treatment Care is essential for best outcomes and reducing risks. Careful attention to post-procedure care is important in minimizing complications and maximizing your cosmetic results.
The procedure is typically well-tolerated, with minimal discomfort often described as a mild burning or stinging sensation during the injections. Some patients describe the feeling as a slight pinch; however, these symptoms will typically subside quickly.
A single session typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, though multiple sessions may be needed for optimal results. The exact length of time depends on the size of the area and number of veins being treated.
Most people can resume normal activities immediately, although it's advisable to avoid strenuous exercise for a few days.
Improvement can be seen in a few weeks, with the full effect becoming apparent over several months.
Sclerotherapy is a simple and safe procedure. However, as with any procedure, it does carry some risk and may cause side effects.
Temporary side effects that may occur at the injection site include:
These side effects usually go away within a few days to weeks. Some side effects may take months or longer to go away completely.
Treatment Length
How Long Does Sclerotherapy for Spider Veins Last?
Discomfort Level