Sclerotherapy is a procedure to remove unsightly veins. A solution called polidocanol is injected into the larger, reticular veins and also the smaller spider veins. Polidocanol is a preferable solution to saline because it does not sting and burn upon entering a vein, as does saline, and it is considered to be the safest agent with the least side effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Do Spider Veins Come From?

Spider veins are usually inherited genetically. Pregnancy, prolonged standing, hormones, and excess weight also promote their appearance.

How Long Does The Treatment Take?

The procedure takes approximately 30-45 minutes. Please do not shave your legs or use lotion on the day of your procedure, as we will be using alcohol on your legs. Also, avoid using self tanners for up to 5 days prior to your treatment. The length of time for leg vein clearance can take up to 6 months. Reasonable expectations are for 70% clearance of treated areas, but complete clearance does occur.

• Learn about The Sclerotherapy Procedure in 3D

What Should I Wear For The Procedure?

Please wear shorts for the procedure and bring a pair of loose-fitting pants or sweats to wear home. We will apply pressure bandages on the points of injection. It is recommended that these pressure bandages be left on overnight. The following day, you may begin wearing support stockings. These should be worn for at least 3 days and up to one week. Full support pantyhose are very beneficial to recovery, as they support the veins. If you are consistent with wearing support hose and supportive shoes during your work hours, whether you are sitting or standing, you will maintain the benefits of your sclerotherapy treatment for a much longer period of time. Sclerotherapy is a maintenance procedure repeated every one to three years.

What Is The After-Care Program?

You should schedule a 30 minute walk immediately following your procedure. It is recommended that you walk for 30 minutes every day following your procedure until veins completely disappear. You may resume your regular workout program two days after the procedure. It is also very important to drink two quarts of water each day. Patients who follow this after-care program of walking, drinking plenty of water and wearing support stockings will benefit from the procedure much faster than someone who is not participating in the after-care program.

Will Subsequent Sessions Be Necessary?

Usually, even if we’ve injected all the areas of concern, patients will have to return every 4-6 weeks for approximately 2-4 sessions. Veins that are still noticeable will need to be touched up. After the larger veins have disappeared, you may begin to notice smaller veins you had never paid attention to previously. During the following treatments, those very small veins will be addressed so your legs will be free of all unsightly veins.

Will These Veins Come Back Later?

Varicose and spider veins do come back with pregnancies, aging and long periods of standing. If you are prone to these veins, do not be surprised if they return. Sclerotherapy is not a permanent procedure, but if done on a regular basis, every few years, a beautiful leg appearance can be maintained.

Pre-Treatment

• Do not shave your legs for two days prior to your appointment
• Do not put moisturizer on your legs the day of treatment
• Avoid a self tanner for up to 5 days prior to your treatment
• Eat a light breakfast or lunch an hour or so prior to your appointment
• Bring shorts or a bathing suit to wear during the procedure
• Bring long pants to wear home after the procedure

Post-Treatment

• Leave cotton balls, tape, and stockings on until bedtime
• Walk for 30 minutes immediately following the injections
• Maintain normal daytime activities and walk at least an hour a day–the more the better, within reason
• Make sure you move around when standing for a long time
• No hot baths for two weeks
• Avoid strenuous physical activity (aerobics and weight lifting) for the first 48 hours

Long-Term Care Instructions

• Wear support hose
• Avoid birth control pills or extra estrogen
• Avoid excessive weight gain
• Avoid activities that require prolonged standing

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