Sclerotherapy

After several spider vein removal sclerotherapy sessions, most patients notice a 70-90% improvement in the appearance and symptoms. The full effect and benefit of treatment usually take several weeks. For this reason, many sclerotherapy specialists recommend waiting 3-6 weeks in between sclerotherapy treatments.

The leading risk factors of varicose veins are hypertension (high blood pressure), obesity, pregnancy and a sedentary lifestyle. Other risk factors include regular prolonged periods of standing still, family history, hormonal imbalances and age.

Most people have their spider veins treated for cosmetic reasons. However, depending on the severity of your spider veins, they may cause health risks, such as bleeding.

If you are bothered by the appearance of spider veins or varicose veins of your legs, hands, arms or feet, are not pregnant and do not have localized blood clotting, you are a good candidate.

After sclerotherapy treatment, it’s generally recommended to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and high-impact exercises for at least one to two weeks. Walking and light activities are encouraged as they can help improve circulation. Additionally, you should avoid hot baths, saunas, and direct sun exposure to the treated areas for a few days to minimize swelling and promote healing. Wearing compression stockings as advised by your doctor is also important for optimal results.

The number of sclerotherapy treatments required varies depending on the size and number of veins being treated. Typically, patients may need between two to four sessions to achieve optimal results. Smaller veins may respond well after one or two treatments, while larger or more extensive vein networks may require additional sessions. Treatments are usually spaced several weeks apart to allow for proper healing and assessment of results.

Sclerotherapy is generally more effective for treating smaller varicose veins and spider veins. For larger varicose veins, other treatments such as endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) or surgical options might be more appropriate. However, in some cases, sclerotherapy can be used for larger veins, often in conjunction with other treatments. It’s important to consult with a vein specialist to determine the best treatment plan for your specific condition.

Yes, there are a few steps you should take to prepare for sclerotherapy. Your doctor may advise you to avoid certain medications, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or other anti-inflammatory drugs, for a few days before the procedure, as they can increase the risk of bruising. It’s also recommended to avoid applying lotion to your legs on the day of the procedure. Wearing loose, comfortable clothing is suggested, and you might be advised to bring compression stockings to wear after the treatment.