Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is the standard treatment for spider veins on the legs or other parts of the body besides the face. A special “sclerosing” solution is injected into the undesirable vein. This causes the vein to collapse, and it is then absorbed by the body. Since these veins are not necessary for healthy blood flow, it is a medically sound procedure that has been performed by doctors for many years.

Sclerotherapy is only effective on spider veins, which are small, flat veins that are not harmful. Varicose veins are larger and usually bulge somewhat at the surface of the skin. If you have varicose veins, you should see a vascular specialist because they can signal a medical problem.

What causes spider veins? Usually, they are simply hereditary, although age, weight, and pregnancy can also contribute to their development.

If you have spider veins on your face, we recommend the V-Beam laser.

At Dermatology Medical Group of San Francisco, all consultations and treatments are done by our physicians. They have used Sclerotherapy to treat numerous patients for unsightly spider veins. A thorough examination and detailed medical history will determine if you are a good candidate for the Sclerotherapy procedure.

The Sclerotherapy Treatment

Sclerotherapy vein treatment is administered using a micro needle, so it is not painful, although you can expect a slight burning sensation. The solution is injected right into the vein, causing it to seal shut so that no blood can flow into it again. The veins take a few weeks to fade.

Most patients need a few treatments spaced five or six weeks apart to clear as many veins as possible.

Recovering from Sclerotherapy

No recovery period is required after Sclerotherapy, but you may experience some mild bruising and cramping for a few days. You will be provided with compression stockings to wear during sleep for the first few nights after each treatment. We also ask that you avoid exercise for three or four days after your appointments.

Do you think Sclerotherapy might be right for you? Call us today for an appointment.