Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy

What is sclerotherapy?

Spider veins, which often cover the legs, are damaged veins that appear to be similar to varicose veins, only thinner. Appearing red or blue in color and like thin spider webs or branches, these veins are closer to the surface of the skin and can spread over a range of areas. Unlike varicose veins, spider veins are typically not raised above the skin’s surface.

Spider veins can be treated with sclerotherapy or laser treatment. Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to eliminate spider veins with the injection of a solution directly into the vein

What to expect during sclerotherapy:

A solution is injected through a very fine needle directly into the vein. At this point, the patient may experience mild discomfort and cramping for one to two minutes. The procedure itself takes approximately 30-45 minutes.

The number of veins injected in one session depends on the size and location of the veins, as well as the general medical condition of the patient. Multiple sessions may be needed

Is sclerotherapy right for you?

Sclerotherapy is often administered for cosmetic purposes, to improve the appearance of varicose and spider veins.

The procedure can also improve related symptoms such as:

• Aching
• Swelling
• Burning
• Night cramps

Is sclerotherapy effective?

In general, spider veins can take up to 3 months to respond to treatment. However, new veins may appear requiring further treatment. If needed, you may return for injections.

Studies have shown that as many as 50% to 80% of injected veins may be eliminated with each session of sclerotherapy. Less than 10% of the people who have sclerotherapy do not respond to the injections at all. In these instances, different solutions can be tried. Although this procedure works for most patients, there are no guarantees for success.