What is Venous Sclerotherapy?
Spider veins decorating the legs or small bluish
reticular veins may seem harmless, but they often come with tired, heavy, or restless legs, especially after a long day on your feet. Fortunately, venous sclerotherapy allows us to treat these veins simply, effectively, and without surgery.
Venous sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure designed to treat small to medium-sized abnormal veins. Whether we’re addressing spider veins for cosmetic reasons or targeting underlying venous insufficiency, this technique has played a transformative role in modern vein care.
How Does It Work?
Sclerotherapy works by injecting a solution, known as a sclerosing agent, directly into the target vein. This causes the vein wall to become irritated and inflamed, leading it to collapse. Over time, the collapsed vein is naturally reabsorbed by the body, and blood reroutes through healthier nearby vessels.
This mechanism may sound straightforward, but it’s grounded in decades of vascular science. Key to its success is the damage done intentionally to the endothelial lining of the vein. This stimulates fibrosis, which seals the vein shut permanently.
Who Can Benefit From Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is most effective for:
- Spider veins
- Reticular veins
- Small varicose veins
- Patients with localized venous insufficiency
We’ve seen great outcomes in patients dealing with symptoms like chronic leg fatigue, itching, swelling, or persistent pain. Additionally, for many individuals concerned about the visual appearance of spider veins, this treatment offers not only aesthetic enhancement but also relief from discomfort.
However, patient selection is key. Not all veins are suitable for sclerotherapy. During evaluations, including ultrasound imaging, we determine vein depth, size, and reflux to establish the best treatment route.
The Sclerotherapy Procedure Step-by-Step
1. Evaluation & Mapping
During your initial consultation, a vein specialist assesses your venous system, often using Doppler ultrasound to identify the veins needing treatment.
2. Preparing for the Session
We often advise patients to avoid applying creams or lotions on the day of the appointment. Wearing loose-fitting clothes helps post-treatment comfort.
3. Injection Process
The doctor injects the sclerosing agent into the affected vein using a very fine needle. Sessions typically last 15 to 30 minutes and involve minimal discomfort. A slight itch or burn at the injection site is normal.
4. Post-Treatment Care
After the injections, we apply compression and advise movement (such as a brief walk) to promote circulation. Compression stockings are generally worn for a few days.
Commonly Used Sclerosing Agents
The three main agents we commonly use depending on vein type and location are:
- Polidocanol – Known for its low pain profile and excellent safety record
- Sodium tetradecyl sulfate (STS) – Effective for medium to large veins
- Hypertonic saline – Common for spider veins but may cause more irritation
Choice of agent depends on vein type, patient tolerance, and prior history. In sensitive areas like the face, Polidocanol shines for its low risk of pigmentation changes.
Benefits Beyond Cosmetic Improvements
While patients initially seek sclerotherapy for visual improvement, clinical outcomes extend far beyond skin-deep.
- Symptom Relief – Over 80% of patients report improved sensations of heaviness, burning, and restlessness.
- Increased Mobility – Reduced discomfort allows for greater physical activity.
- Confidence – Restored leg appearance is frequently a significant self-esteem boost.
Clinical studies also support its benefit as adjunct therapy for patients undergoing endovenous laser or radiofrequency treatments.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Though generally regarded as safe, sclerotherapy, like any medical procedure, carries potential risks:
- Mild: Bruising, redness, itching, or temporary discomfort at injection sites
- Moderate: Brown pigmentation (usually resolves over weeks or months), matting (fine red lines)
- Rare but Serious: Deep vein thrombosis, skin necrosis, allergic reaction
Proper technique and careful patient selection make these rare. We strongly advise choosing experienced vein specialists to minimize complications.
Post-Treatment Care and Recovery Tips
Recovery is usually quick. Primary recommendations include:
- Wearing compression stockings for up to one week
- Walking 15–30 minutes daily to aid circulation
- Avoiding hot baths, heavy lifting, or sun exposure for 2 weeks
- Scheduling a follow-up ultrasound to confirm vein closure
Some veins may need a second or third treatment session for complete resolution—and that’s entirely normal.
How Sclerotherapy Compares With Other Vein Treatments
Sclerotherapy vs. Laser Therapy
Laser treatments are best for facial spider veins or veins less responsive to injection. Sclerotherapy, however, remains the gold standard for leg veins due to its superior effectiveness.
Sclerotherapy vs. Surgery
Surgical vein stripping is rarely needed today. Sclerotherapy offers a much less invasive option with virtually no downtime.
Sclerotherapy vs. Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
RFA is ideal for larger, refluxing trunk veins. It’s commonly combined with sclerotherapy for comprehensive results.
When performed with precision by a vascular specialist, venous sclerotherapy not only resolves unsightly veins—it restores comfort, confidence, and quality of life. Its quick recovery, impressive safety profile, and proven outcomes make it one of the top treatments in modern vein care.
If you’ve been living with leg discomfort or frustrating visible veins, now may be the time to explore sclerotherapy.
Get connected with the experts at SFL Medical Group to schedule your vein consultation today. Relief and renewed confidence are just an appointment away.
