What Is Vein Sclerotherapy?

If you’ve noticed unsightly veins in your legs, you might wonder if vein sclerotherapy is right for you. Here’s everything you need to know about this treatment designed to restore clear, smooth skin.

What Is Vein Sclerotherapy, and How Does it Work?

Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that treats varicose veins and spider veins. A healthcare provider injects a sclerosing agent into the problematic vein. The solution irritates the vein’s inner lining, causing it to collapse and eventually fade away. This process redirects blood flow to healthier veins, improving the appearance and health of your legs.

Most people need multiple sclerotherapy sessions to achieve the desired results. For smaller spider veins, one or two sessions may do the trick. However, larger or more complex varicose veins often require several appointments spaced a few weeks apart. Each session is relatively quick, often completed within 30 minutes, and doesn’t require anesthesia.

Types of Sclerotherapy

Here are the main types:

• Conventional sclerotherapy uses a liquid sclerosing solution injected directly into the vein. It’s commonly used for smaller varicose veins and spider veins.
• Foam sclerotherapy involves mixing the sclerosing agent with air or gas to create a foam. The foam displaces blood within the vein, allowing for better contact with the vein walls. Foam sclerotherapy is particularly effective for large varicose veins.
• Laser sclerotherapy, also known as endovenous laser treatment, uses laser energy to heat and close off the affected vein. It’s often chosen for veins that are difficult to treat with injections.
• Mixed sclerotherapy (cryo-laser and cryo-sclerotherapy, or CLaCS) combines laser therapy and injections in the same session. It’s highly effective and works quickly, especially when treating small spider veins.

Preparing for Sclerotherapy

Before undergoing sclerotherapy, consult a vascular specialist to determine the most appropriate treatment for your condition. Your doctor may recommend avoiding certain medications, such as aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs, for a few days before the procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding. It’s also advisable to avoid shaving or applying creams leading up to the procedure, and wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment.

What to Expect After Sclerotherapy

Post-procedure, you can resume most normal activities immediately, though you should avoid strenuous exercise for a few days. Wearing compression stockings speeds up healing and improves the results.

Some patients may experience mild side effects, such as bruising, redness, or swelling at the injection site, which usually subside within a few days. Rarely, complications like blood clots or inflammation may occur, but these can be managed with prompt medical attention.

Results should become visible within three to six weeks. Expect a follow-up appointment with your doctor within this window to evaluate the success of the sclerotherapy and determine if you could benefit from additional sessions.

Exceptional Vein Care at Arizona Vein and Laser Institute

If you’re tired of varicose and spider veins, turn to Arizona Vein and Laser Institute. Our world-renowned staff and skilled vascular surgeons have been restoring our patients’ leg veins to full health since 2005. With same-day appointments and transportation services for seniors in need, we make it easy to schedule a free consultation at one of our six Phoenix-area locations. Contact us today to get started.