Sclerotherapy

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When happens in a sclerotherapy treatment?

In most cases of sclerotherapy, the salt solution is injected through a very fine needle directly into the vein. At this point, you may experience mild discomfort and cramping for one to two minutes, especially when larger veins are injected. The procedure itself takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes.

The number of veins injected in one session depends on the size and location of the veins, as well as the general medical condition of the patient.

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When can I expect results  from sclerotherapy?

In general, spider veins respond to treatment in three to six weeks, and larger veins respond in three to four months. If the veins respond to the treatment, they will not reappear. However, new veins may appear at the same rate as before. If needed, you may return for injections.

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How effective is sclerotherapy?

Studies have shown that as many as 50%-80% of injected veins may be eliminated with each session of sclerotherapy. Less than 10% of the people who have sclerotherapy do not respond to the injections at all. In these instances, different solutions can be tried. Although this procedure works for most patients, there are no guarantees for success.

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Does sclerotherapy have any side effects?

You may experience itching for 1-2 days after the procedure. Also, you may experience raised, red areas at the injection site. These should disappear within a few days. Bruising may also occur around the injection site and can last several days or weeks.

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Rare Sclerotherapy Side Effects Include:

• Larger veins that have been injected may become lumpy and hard and may require several months to dissolve and fade.

• Brown lines or spots may appear at the vein site. In most cases, they disappear within three to six months, but they may also last indefinitely.

• Neovascularization (the development of new, tiny blood vessel) may occur at the site of sclerotherapy treatment. These tiny veins can appear days or weeks after the procedure, but should fade within three to twelve months without further treatment.

Should any of these following side effects occur, contact your doctor immediately.

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What to do the day before treatment?

Before the procedure, avoid shaving or applying any lotion to your legs. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment. You might even consider wearing a pair of shorts so that your legs are exposed.

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AFTERCARE​

• Following the injections, avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, or other anti-inflammatory drugs for at least 48 hours. Paracetamol may be used if needed.

• Avoid hot baths, hot compresses, saunas, jacuzzis and direct sunlight for 48 hours after treatment.

• Avoid consuming excess amounts of alcohol or salts to avoid excess swelling for 72 hours after treatment