Sclerotherapy is used to treat small spider veins (telangiectasias) and larger varicose and reticular veins.  Spider veins normally appear on thighs or lower legs, though they can appear anywhere on the leg.  Sometimes spider veins can appear on the face.  Spider veins are hereditary, and sclerotherapy has been a popular non-surgical procedure for many people, and can be a very good alternative to surgery.  Sclerotherapy can be used alone or in combination with laser treatments.  Please see the Laser Vein, Scar & Pigment Removal section of our website for more information.

Starting with the larger veins in most cases, a specially-developed chemical solution is injected into the vein with a micro-needle.  The vein turns white in reaction to the solution, closes up and eventually disappears.  Healthier blood vessels located nearby absorb the blood flow of the collapsed vein.  Sclerotherapy treatment usually lasts between 30 minutes to an hour with little, if any discomfort involved.  Occasionally, small clots can develop at the site where the injection was made.  Depending on the number of veins an individual wants treated, multiple sessions may be necessary. 

At the conclusion of the session, the legs are wrapped in bandages and compression stockings.  Both need to be worn for three days after the treatment.  Sclerotherapy does not require an interruption in normal activities, but patients are advised to avoid vigorous activities for the first day.