What is Scelrotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a microinjection procedure to treat spider veins.  The procedure involves injection of a sterile solution (called a sclerosing solution) into the small veins using a very fine, thin needle. This solution irritates the vein lining causing it to undergo fibrosis and eventually disappear. Generally, most individuals have multiple spider veins and only up to 15-20 injections can be done in one seating. Each treatment sessions lasts up to 30 minutes.

Can Sclerotherapy be used to treat large varicose veins?

Unfortunately, sclerotherapy is generally used for the very small superficial veins next to the skin. Sclerotherapy is not effective for large veins.

How many Sclerotherapy treatments are required?

It varies from individual to individual but typically 2-4 treatments are required for the best results. In patients with milder cases, 1-2 will suffice. The treatments are more when there are more veins or slightly larger veins.

Does Sclerotherapy hurt?

There is a little sting associated with each injection. The burning sensation lasts few seconds. Most individuals tolerate the procedure and do not require any type of anesthesia. The majority of patients claim that the procedure is much less painful than what they anticipated.

Is there any harm in removing spider veins?

Spider veins have no function and removing does no harm. The only reason they are removed is because of their unsighly cosmetic.

Can anyone undergo Sclerotherapy?

Almost anyone with unwanted spider veins can be treated, except women who are pregnant or nursing. Other relative contraindications include those with skin infections, uncontrolled diabetes, fever, history of deep vein thrombosis, anticoagulant therapy, those patients taking corticosteroids.

Is there any preparation required before Sclerotherapy?

No preparation is required before the procedure. It is recommended that one stop smoking and stop taking aspirin a few days before the procedure. ANy patient on a blood thinner is not a candidate for Sclerotherapy.

What happens after Sclerotherapy treatment?

There is some mild pain which can easily be overcome with Tylenol. The injection site will appear bruised and swollen for a few days. Continual wearing of the ace bandaged will revield the swelling and pain. The bruising usually disapears in 2-3 weeks. One will have no problem with walking. After the first  2 days, most patients can resume their normal activities.