Sclerotherapy

Purpose:

To treat spider veins and reticular veins. Reticular veins are the visible veins that appear under your skin appearing blue or purple. They do not bulge like varicose veins do.

We do not treat varicose veins, and recommend you get a referral to a vascular surgeon.  

During the procedure, a solution is slowly injected into the veins and causes irritation of the lining in the vein causing it to swell, collapse and fade over time.

Most people require 4-6 treatment sessions four weeks apart to achieve the desired result.

You are not eligible for sclerotherapy if:

1. You have an active deep vein thrombosis.

2. You are pregnant.  You will need to wait up until three months after delivery.

3. Breast feeding

Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, and blood thinners can increase the risk of bleeding.  You will need to discuss with your physician about the safety of holding these medications before the procedure and provide a letter from your primary care provider that you are cleared to safely proceed with the procedure.

Prior to your Sclerotherapy session:

1. Do not use lotions on your legs.

2. Please bring thigh high compression stockings to the appointment.  You will need to wear them after the procedure.

3. Avoid alcohol and tobacco two days prior and two days after the procedure

Risks and possible complications after sclerotherapy:

1. Bruising

2. Hives/rash

3. Infection or cellulitis at the skin level

4. Phlebitis (inflammation of the vein)

5. Blood clot within the treated vein

6. Discoloration or brown staining of the skin

Post care instructions:

1. Wear compression stockings for a 7 days while awake (remove before bed)

2. Avoid strenuous exercise for at least three days after the procedure.

3. Avoid saunas/extreme heat.

4. If your feet or toes turn white or blue, or if you experience numbness or tingling in your feet or toes while wearing the compression stockings, you will need to get the next size larger

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