Spider Vein Removal (Sclerotherapy)

Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical treatment for spider and reticular veins which is performed in our clinic. Using a tiny needle, medication is injected. The medication irritates the vein walls so that they stick together and are gradually reabsorbed by the body. Eliminating these diseased veins actually improves the circulation and makes the legs healthier.

In your first consultation for sclerotherapy you will be asked questions regarding your past health, medication history and symptoms. Our medical team will examine your legs and you will have an opportunity to discuss your condition and ask any questions. Frequently, the veins can be treated on the same day as the consultation, however; we request upon booking your consultation.

Depending on the type and severity of the veins, the average number of Sclerotherapy treatments to really see preferred results is anywhere between 4-8 single treatments.

Diagnosis starts with a careful history and physical examination. Diagnostic tests are often needed to evaluate the extent of disease. If treatment is indicated, each one treatment takes about 20 minutes. The number of treatments depends on the severity of the problem. Discomfort after treatment is rare. Most patients leave our office and go directly back to work. We recommend that patients walk for 20-30 minutes after each treatment.

1. Do not take aspirin, ibuprofen or other arthritis medicine for 2 days before and after sclerotherapy treatment because these medications can increase bruising.
2. Do not drink alcoholic beverages or smoke for 2 days before and after your treatment. They may impair healing.
3. Shower and wash your legs thoroughly with an antibacterial soap.
4. Do not shave your legs the day of your appointment.
5. Do not apply any cream or lotion to your legs, including tanning cream.
6. Bring loose fitting shorts to wear during the treatment.
7. Eat a light meal or snack 1 – 1½ hours before your appointment.

In the first few days itching, bruising, aching, redness and swelling are common. Most of these symptoms resolve spontaneously. You may take Tylenol (acetaminophen), but do not take ASA or related compounds (aspirin, naproxen, and ibuprofen/Advil) since they may increase bleeding. It may help to elevate the legs and rotate the ankles. Some patients (particularly those with fair skin) notice small red circles or brown lines after treatments. These are due to the pigment of blood or inflammation and usually resolve within 6 weeks. Any other concerns following your treatment we would suggest a follow up appointment with the injector.

Your legs will be covered in cotton balls attached with tape, so you are advised to wear dark colored loose fitting clothing to the session. Remove the cotton balls after one hour. Resume normal activities. Avoid alcohol, ASA, and exercise for 48 hours. Avoid tanning until the end of treatment and all the bruises have disappeared (no tanning for 2 weeks after treatment because the sun or artificial UV rays may cause pigmentation). Maintain normal activities but avoid strenuous physical activities such as high-impact aerobics or weight lifting for at least the first 48 hours. Avoid hot baths, hot showers, hot tubs, and saunas for 1 week. Cool your legs with cold water after each shower. Most people can return to work immediately after a treatment.

Appointments should be booked every 2-4 weeks until desired results are achieved.

The situations in which Sclerotherapy might be harmful to your health are:

• Pregnancy
• Previous deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Previous phlebitis
• Breast feeding