Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive vein treatment that involves injecting a specialized medication, called a sclerosant, into an unhealthy vein. The solution gently irritates the vein wall, causing it to collapse, seal shut, and gradually be absorbed by the body. Blood is naturally redirected through healthier veins, improving circulation while reducing the appearance of spider and varicose veins.
Sclerotherapy is an effective treatment for both small spider veins and selected varicose veins. It is commonly recommended for patients experiencing visible veins, aching, leg discomfort, or other symptoms related to vein disease. Before treatment, our vein specialists perform a thorough evaluation to determine if sclerotherapy is the most appropriate option or if another treatment would provide better results. The cost of treatment depends on the size and number of veins treated, the severity of the condition, and your insurance coverage when the procedure is considered medically necessary.
During the procedure, the affected leg is elevated to help empty the targeted vein before a vein specialist carefully injects an FDA-approved sclerosant into the unhealthy vein using a very fine needle. For deeper veins, ultrasound guidance may be used to ensure accurate placement of the medication.
Once injected, the sclerosant causes the vein lining to close, allowing blood to flow through healthier veins. Over time, the treated vein forms scar tissue and is naturally absorbed by the body, making it much less visible.
The procedure is performed in our office and usually takes 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the number and size of the veins being treated. Following treatment, patients are advised to wear medical-grade compression stockings for several days to promote healthy circulation and optimize healing. Most patients experience little discomfort, although a mild burning or cramping sensation at the injection site may occur briefly. Depending on the severity of the vein disease, more than one treatment session may be recommended to achieve the best results.
One of the greatest advantages of sclerotherapy is that it is a minimally invasive treatment that does not require surgery, general anesthesia, or a lengthy recovery period. The procedure is performed in the office, usually takes less than 30 minutes, and most patients can return to normal daily activities immediately afterward, making recovery quick and convenient.
Like any medical treatment, sclerotherapy may not be suitable for every patient. While it is highly effective for spider veins and smaller varicose veins, patients with larger or more advanced vein disease may benefit from combining sclerotherapy with treatments such as Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) or VenaSeal for optimal results. Our experienced vein specialists carefully evaluate each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan that provides the safest and most effective outcome.
There are two primary types of sclerotherapy: Liquid Sclerotherapy and Foam Sclerotherapy. The most appropriate option depends on the size of the veins, the extent of vein disease, and your individual treatment goals.
Liquid Sclerotherapy is typically recommended for small spider veins. The liquid medication is injected directly into the affected vein, causing it to close and gradually disappear.
Foam Sclerotherapy is generally used for larger varicose veins. The medication is mixed with air to create a foam that coats a larger area inside the vein, making it more effective for treating larger veins. At CURA Vein Doctors, every treatment plan is customized to each patient’s condition, ensuring the most appropriate technique is selected for safe, effective, and long-lasting results.
