Sclerotherapy

What Is Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is the primary treatment for spider veins and small varicose veins. A sclerosing solution is injected directly into the targeted vein using a very fine needle. The solution irritates the inner lining of the vein wall, causing it to collapse and stick together. The closed vein is gradually broken down and absorbed by the body over the following weeks, and the blood that previously traveled through it is rerouted through healthy surrounding vessels.

Sclerotherapy has been the standard of care for vein elimination for decades and has an established clinical record of safety and effectiveness. When performed by a trained physician with proper technique and appropriate solution concentration, it consistently produces clearance of treated veins with a low rate of significant side effects.

What Conditions Sclerotherapy Treats

Sclerotherapy is most commonly used for spider veins, the small red, purple, or blue vessels visible just beneath the skin surface, typically on the legs, thighs, and ankles. These vessels have no functional role and are purely cosmetic, but they are a common aesthetic concern that affects many patients.

Sclerotherapy is also appropriate for small varicose veins, the larger, rope-like veins that become raised and visible beneath the skin. Small to medium varicose veins respond well to sclerotherapy, while larger varicose veins with significant underlying venous insufficiency may require additional evaluation and alternative treatment approaches. Dr. Akers will evaluate the character and distribution of your veins at consultation to determine whether sclerotherapy is the appropriate treatment.

Facial spider veins, including those on the nose and cheeks, are also treatable with sclerotherapy, though facial vessels are generally more effectively addressed with laser vein treatment. Dr. Akers will recommend the most appropriate treatment modality for your specific vein pattern and location.

What to Expect From Treatment

A sclerotherapy session involves multiple injections using very fine needles placed directly into each targeted vein. The number of injections per session depends on the number and size of the veins being treated. Most sessions take 30 to 60 minutes. The injections produce a mild stinging or cramping sensation that is brief and well tolerated by most patients.

After treatment, compression stockings are worn for one to two weeks to maintain pressure on the treated veins and support optimal results. Walking is encouraged immediately after treatment to promote circulation. Treated veins typically fade over three to six weeks as they are absorbed by the body. Most patients need two to four sessions to achieve complete clearance, with additional sessions separated by four to six weeks.

Side effects are generally minor and temporary. Bruising, redness, and small raised areas at injection sites resolve within days. Hyperpigmentation, a brown discoloration along the treated vein path, can occur in some patients and fades over several months. Serious complications are rare with proper physician administration and appropriate patient selection.