Sclerotherapy of Veins
Spider veins are very fine, branching red, blue or purple vessels that most commonly appear on the skin of the thighs and calves. Although they do not pose a health risk, their prominent colour often makes them aesthetically bothersome. Sclerotherapy can effectively eliminate them and restore smooth, radiant skin to your legs.
Spider veins are also known as venectasias, telangiectasias or thread veins. These are permanently dilated superficial veins that become more visible due to blood stagnation.
They are among the earliest signs of chronic superficial venous insufficiency and can cause significant cosmetic concern. Around 80% of adults experience them at some point.
In addition to cosmetic issues, spider veins may cause pain, burning or stinging sensations.
Similar concerns arise from reticular veins or small varicosities, which are slightly larger than spider veins (1 to 3 mm), less branched, and usually bluish.
Sclerotherapy of spider and reticular veins with liquid or foam sclerosants is an effective outpatient treatment. The sclerosant is injected into multiple points along the visible veins, damaging the vein wall and causing it to close. Once closed, the vein is no longer visible beneath the skin.
The procedure is not painful, as it is performed with an extremely fine needle, though a brief burning sensation may occur during injection.
Successful treatment typically requires 1 to 3 sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart.
For a few days after the procedure, we advise avoiding sun exposure, saunas, hot baths, and intense physical activity.
How is sclerotherapy of spider veins performed?
The surgeon injects a liquid or foam sclerosant at several points along the visible spider and reticular veins. The needle is so fine that local anaesthesia is unnecessary. The sclerosant irritates the vessel wall, causing the vein to close and gradually fade over several weeks.
Does sclerotherapy need to be repeated?
The number of sessions depends on the number, size and location of the veins. Typically, 1 to 3 treatments with 4 to 6 week intervals are sufficient. Treated veins disappear permanently, though new ones may form over time.
How should I prepare for the procedure?
No special preparation is required. However, we recommend a duplex ultrasound of the leg veins before the first session so the surgeon can check for deeper venous insufficiency (varicose veins). This allows for accurate sequencing of treatment.
What should I expect after the procedure?
You may experience temporary redness or tenderness at injection sites. Short-term compression with a bandage or stocking is recommended. Daily activities may be resumed immediately, but intense exercise, sun exposure, saunas and hot baths should be avoided for a few days.
