Sclerotherapy

What is sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is an outpatient nonsurgical treatment for small dilated veins, including spider veins (telangiectasias) and varicose veins. The team injects a sclerosant — a chemical solution — into your veins using a very thin needle. It’s a virtually painless process.

This solution irritates your vein lining, which leads to scarring and hardening. The vein gradually vanishes, and the blood inside your treated veins travels to other veins in the area.

At Vascular Surgery Associates, LLC, the experienced vascular specialists combine sclerotherapy with laser vein therapy to achieve maximum results. Laser light targets your skin’s surface to heat and fade veins. 

When do I need sclerotherapy?

There are two main reasons for sclerotherapy treatment. 

Cosmetic

The most common reason that people seek sclerotherapy treatment is cosmetic. Although spider veins and some varicose veins aren’t particularly large, they can be quite prominent. 

If you hate how the blue, purple, or red veins stand out on your legs, sclerotherapy is an excellent nonsurgical way to restore your appearance. 

Medical

Spider veins aren't always a cosmetic issue. Spider and varicose veins can indicate vein valve malfunction, peripheral vascular disease, or other vascular problems. 

If you have symptoms like leg pain, leg heaviness, and leg discoloration along with spider or varicose veins, it's important to treat the underlying vascular issue as soon as possible. Sclerotherapy may be part of your vascular disease treatment, along with lifestyle changes, medication, and minimally invasive procedures.

If sclerotherapy is medically necessary, your insurance provider may cover the cost. In some cases, you might need another type of vein treatment, such as VenaSeal™, instead of sclerotherapy. Vascular Surgery Associates, LLC, offers a complete menu of vein solutions on-site. 

How do I prepare for sclerotherapy?

The team at Vascular Surgery Associates, LLC, explains any necessary preparation before your sclerotherapy appointment. You may need some special tests, such as ankle-brachial index (ABI), Doppler ultrasound, and other procedures if they suspect vascular disease caused your veins.

How long until I see sclerotherapy results?

Usually, you’ll experience vein fading within a few weeks. In some situations, it could take a month or longer to experience total fading. 

Sclerotherapy is a reliable, simple, and proven treatment for spider and varicose veins. Vascular Surgery Associates, LLC, is here to help with veins and vascular disease, so call the office nearest you or book an appointment online today.