Do you have visible veins on your legs or discomfort from varicose veins? Many people experience this issue, whether for cosmetic reasons or because of pain, swelling, or circulation problems.
Sclerotherapy is a safe and effective treatment that helps eliminate unwanted veins without surgery. Doctors inject a solution into the affected veins, causing them to close and disappear over time.
This guide explains how sclerotherapy works, who benefits from it, and what to expect from the procedure. Learning about the process can help you decide if this treatment is right for you.
What Is Sclerotherapy and How Does It Work?
Veins carry blood back to the heart, but when their valves weaken, blood pools and forms spider veins or varicose veins. These abnormal blood vessels may appear as thin, web-like lines or as bulging, twisted cords under the skin. In some cases, they cause discomfort, swelling, or heaviness in the legs.
Sclerotherapy provides a non-surgical solution for removing abnormal veins and improving blood flow. Your doctor injects a sclerosant solution into the injected vein, which irritates the vein walls and causes them to collapse. The body then naturally absorbs the treated vessels, rerouting blood through healthier veins.
Most patients see noticeable improvements within a few weeks, though some may need multiple sessions for the best results. Sclerotherapy is a safe and effective option for eliminating visible veins and improving circulation without surgery.
Why Consider Sclerotherapy for Vein Treatment?
Spider veins and varicose veins are more than a cosmetic concern. Weakened veins can lead to leg pain, swelling, cramping, and a feeling of heaviness. Some people experience itching or burning near the affected veins. In more severe cases, untreated varicose veins increase the risk of blood clots and circulation problems.
Sclerotherapy provides a primary treatment for spider veins and mild varicose veins without surgery. It helps relieve discomfort and reduces the appearance of visible veins. This procedure also relieves superficial venous insufficiency symptoms, such as pain, swelling, and leg fatigue.
Unlike invasive procedures, it requires no incisions or long recovery periods. Most patients return to normal activities the same day.
Doctors often recommend sclerotherapy for small to medium-sized veins, including spider veins and mild varicose veins. It works well for those who want effective, long-lasting results without undergoing surgery.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Sclerotherapy Treatment?
Sclerotherapy works well for people with spider veins and telangiectatic leg veins. Those who experience leg discomfort, swelling, or cosmetic concerns often benefit from treatment. Doctors may recommend it for patients who have tried lifestyle changes but still struggle with vein-related symptoms.
Not everyone qualifies for sclerotherapy. Pregnant women and individuals with a history of vascular malformations or severe vein disease may need alternative treatments.Â
People with certain medical conditions should consult a doctor to determine if this procedure is safe for them.
A consultation helps determine if sclerotherapy is the right option. A vein specialist evaluates the size, location, and severity of the affected veins, reviews medical history, and recommends the most effective treatment plan.
What Happens in a Sclerotherapy Procedure
Sclerotherapy is a quick, in-office treatment that does not require anesthesia. Before starting, the doctor examines the veins and cleans the treatment area. Patients may need to avoid certain medications, lotions, or sun exposure before the appointment.
The Injection Process
During the procedure, the patient lies comfortably while the doctor cleans the treatment area. A fine needle injects the sclerosant solution into the reticular veins and spider veins.
Some patients feel a mild burning sensation, but discomfort is usually minimal. The number of injections depends on the size and location of the veins being treated.
Treatment Duration
The entire treatment session takes 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the number of veins treated. After the injections, the doctor may massage the area to help distribute the solution. Patients can usually stand up and walk immediately after the procedure.
Does Sclerotherapy Hurt?
Many people hesitate to seek vein treatment because they worry about pain. Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure, and most patients experience little to no discomfort. The injections may cause a brief stinging or burning sensation, but this lasts only a few seconds.
Doctors use a very fine needle to inject the sclerosant solution directly into the vein. Some patients describe the sensation as a small pinch or a mild cramping feeling. However, larger varicose veins may cause more pressure during injection, while smaller spider veins are usually painless.
To minimize discomfort, doctors may use numbing agents or cooling techniques before injecting the solution.
Sclerotherapy Recovery and Aftercare
Proper aftercare helps ensure the best results and reduces the risk of complications. Following post-treatment guidelines helps prevent complications and supports proper healing.
What to Expect After Treatment
Most patients resume normal activities the same day, but some mild side effects are common. Redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection sites may appear within the first few hours. Some veins darken before they fade, which is a sign that the treatment is working. A mild aching or tingling sensation in the legs may also occur but usually resolves quickly.
Larger veins may feel firm or tender for a few weeks. This happens as the body breaks down and absorbs the treated veins. Some patients notice small, temporary brown spots on the skin, especially if the veins are larger. These typically fade over time.
Post-Treatment Care Guidelines
Doctors recommend wearing compression stockings or support socks for at least one to two weeks after treatment. Compression helps keep pressure on the veins, promoting proper closure and preventing blood from pooling.
Patients should also avoid prolonged sitting or standing and take short walks throughout the day to keep blood flowing.
Certain activities can interfere with healing and should be avoided. Strenuous exercise, hot baths, saunas, and direct sun exposure can cause irritation or delay recovery.
Light activities, such as walking, are encouraged, but high-impact workouts should be postponed for at least 48 hours to a week, depending on the doctor’s recommendations.
How Long Before Results Appear?
The treated veins start fading within three to six weeks, but larger veins may take several months to disappear completely. Some patients need multiple sessions to achieve the best results, especially if they have multiple or stubborn varicose veins.
Once a vein is successfully treated, it does not come back, though new veins may form over time.
How Many Sclerotherapy Sessions Are Needed?
The number of treatments depends on vein size, severity, and individual response to treatment. Some patients see results after one session, while others need multiple treatments for the best outcome. Doctors evaluate the veins and determine the recommended number of sessions during a consultation.
Several factors influence how many treatments a patient needs:
- Vein size and type: Spider veins respond well to one or two sessions, while larger varicose veins often require three or more treatments.
- The extent of vein damage: Patients with widespread vein networks may need additional sessions to treat different areas.
- Healing time between sessions: The body takes time to absorb treated veins. Doctors usually wait four to six weeks between treatments to evaluate progress.
- Personal response to treatment: Some people see faster improvement, while others may need follow-ups to ensure complete vein closure.
What to Expect With Multiple Treatments
Each session targets additional veins or improves the results of previous treatments. As the body gradually breaks down the closed veins, treated areas lighten, and circulation improves. Patients who follow post-treatment care guidelines, such as wearing compression stockings and staying active, often see faster and more effective results.
Sclerotherapy provides long-lasting improvement, but new veins can appear over time due to genetics, lifestyle factors, or hormonal changes.
Risks and Side Effects of Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a safe and effective treatment, but like any medical procedure, it comes with potential side effects.
Mild side effects often occur as the body heals. These typically go away within a few days or weeks:
- Bruising and redness: Injection sites may appear red or bruised but fade as the veins close.
- Swelling or tenderness: Some veins may feel firm or slightly sore before the body absorbs them.
- Darkened veins or small brown spots: Treated veins may darken before they disappear. Temporary pigmentation changes can last a few months.
- Mild itching or tingling: Some patients notice slight irritation, which usually resolves quickly.
Serious side effects are rare but may require medical attention:
- Blood clot forms: In rare cases, a clot can form in a deeper vein. Signs include severe swelling, warmth, or pain in the treated leg.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may react to the sclerosant solution, causing hives or difficulty breathing.
- Skin ulceration: If the solution leaks into surrounding tissues, it can cause a small sore that takes time to heal.
Most side effects are minor and temporary, but you should know when to seek medical advice.
How to Prepare for Sclerotherapy Procedure
A little preparation can make your sclerotherapy session smoother and help you heal faster. While the procedure is quick and minimally invasive, taking a few simple steps before your appointment can reduce side effects and improve results.
Your doctor will give you specific instructions, but here are some instructions to keep in mind.
Medications and Supplements to Avoid
Some medications and supplements can increase bruising or swelling after treatment. It’s best to avoid:
- Blood thinners like aspirin and ibuprofen unless your doctor says otherwise.
- Certain supplements, including fish oil, vitamin E, and ginkgo biloba, since they can affect circulation.
- Lotions or creams on the treatment area may interfere with the injections.
What to Wear to Your Appointment
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that makes it easy to access the treated area. Many patients prefer shorts or wide-leg pants that roll up easily. Since compression stockings help with recovery, bring a pair if your doctor has recommended them.
A Few Small Adjustments Before Treatment
Staying active in the days leading up to your appointment keeps blood flowing, which can support better healing. On the day of your treatment, skip shaving or applying lotion to the treated area to avoid irritation. Eating a light meal and drinking plenty of water before your visit can help prevent dizziness.
Is Sclerotherapy Covered by Insurance?
On average, a session costs $500, though some treatments may be more expensive if multiple areas need injections.
Insurance coverage depends on whether the procedure is considered medically necessary or purely cosmetic. Most insurance providers do not cover sclerotherapy for varicose and spider veins if the treatment is done for appearance alone.Â
However, if your doctor confirms that varicose veins cause pain, swelling, or circulation problems, insurance may cover some or all of the costs.
Can Sclerotherapy Prevent Future Vein Problems?
Treating varicose veins does not stop new spider veins from forming. Vein issues often develop due to genetics, prolonged sitting or standing, pregnancy, or hormonal changes.
Making a few lifestyle changes can prevent future vein problems:
- Stay active: Walking, stretching, or simply moving around every hour keeps blood flowing.
- Wear compression stockings: These help prevent new veins from forming, especially if you sit or stand for long periods.
- Elevate your legs: Raising your legs above heart level for a few minutes a day relieves pressure on your veins.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Extra weight puts more strain on your veins.
Will You Need More Treatments?
Even with good habits, new veins may appear over time. Many people get a touch-up treatment every couple of years to maintain their results. A quick check-in with a vein specialist can help you decide if you need another session.
Get Rid of Painful and Unsightly Veins at Wellness and Pain
You don’t have to live with spider veins or varicose veins. Sclerotherapy is a safe, non-surgical way to eliminate problem veins, improve circulation, and relieve discomfort. Whether your legs feel heavy and tired or you’re frustrated with visible veins, treatment can help you move and feel better.
At Wellness and Pain, our doctors focus on treating the underlying cause of vein issues, not just the symptoms. We use minimally invasive treatments like sclerotherapy to close damaged veins and restore healthy blood flow.
Request an appointment with Wellness and Pain today. Our team will assess your condition and recommend the best treatment to help you feel better.
FAQs About Sclerotherapy
How long will sclerotherapy last?
The treated veins do not come back, but new veins may appear over time. Most people enjoy long-lasting results, especially if they follow healthy habits like staying active and wearing compression stockings when needed. Some choose maintenance treatments every few years to keep their legs vein-free.
What is the downside of sclerotherapy?
The most common downsides are mild bruising, swelling, and temporary skin discoloration after treatment. Some people may need multiple sessions to clear their veins fully. In rare cases, side effects like blood clots or allergic reactions can occur, but these are uncommon when an experienced doctor does the procedure.
Can you get rid of varicose veins without surgery?
Yes, sclerotherapy can be used to treat small to medium-sized varicose veins without surgery. Other minimally invasive treatments like radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or laser therapy may be more effective for larger, bulging veins.
Does insurance cover sclerotherapy?
Insurance usually covers sclerotherapy if it’s medically necessary to treat symptoms like pain, swelling, or circulation issues. If the procedure is done for cosmetic reasons, most insurance plans will not cover it.Â
