Sclerotherapy, or injection therapy, is a treatment in which a concentrated solution is administered into the unwanted leg veins with a micro-needle. The solution works by irritating the lining of the vein so that the vein seals shut. This procedure has been used for the treatment of veins since the 1930’s, but has been refined over the last 10-15 years. One treatment usually takes 5-30 minutes depending on the number of veins to be treated.* Patients resume normal activity after treatment and wear compression stockings for a few days. Most people need a few treatments to obtain the best results and are generally performed at 8-week intervals. The majority of veins that are treated with sclerotherapy will go away, but it will not prevent the development of new veins. It is important to have underlying varicose veins treated prior to spider vein treatment so as to eliminate the source of some spider veins.
Before & After*
*Individual results and experiences may vary from person to person.*
FAQs
How much discomfort is seen with sclerotherapy? Most patients find the discomfort of treatment to be minimal. No surgical incisions are made and anesthesia is not necessary.
What types of veins are treated by sclerotherapy? Purple and blue spider veins do exceptionally well with sclerotherapy, however, some varicose veins may also be treated with this method.
How successful is sclerotherapy? Most patients achieve 50-90% clearance after a series of treatments. The remaining veins may require laser treatment for continued improvement.*
Does insurance pay for sclerotherapy? Most insurance companies consider Sclerotherapy for varicose veins and spider veins to be cosmetic. However, most insurance plans pay for surgical removal and EndoVenous Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins.
