SCLEROTHERAPY INJECTIONS FOR SPIDER VEINS

Sclerotherapy injections are used to improve the appearance of spider veins and small reticular veins on the legs. At IVSI, this treatment is performed as a cosmetic procedure.

The procedure involves injecting an FDA-approved sclerosant directly into the targeted surface veins, causing the treated veins to close and gradually fade over time.

Injections are performed using very fine needles and are often described as feeling similar to small pinches or mosquito bites.

HOW SCLEROTHERAPY WORKS AND HOW MANY TREATMENTS MAY BE NEEDED

Spider veins often form branching networks rather than isolated individual vessels. Treatment is therefore directed not only at the most visible spider veins, but also at feeder veins that contribute to the network. Addressing these feeder veins helps achieve a more complete and even cosmetic result.

The number of treatment sessions and injections varies depending on:

The number and size of spider veins
Their distribution and branching pattern
The extent of the area being treated
Individual response to treatment
Cosmetic goals

Some patients are satisfied after one or two treatment sessions, while more extensive networks of spider and reticular veins may require three or more sessions.

Because response to sclerotherapy varies between patients, the exact number of treatments required cannot be predicted in advance.

What to Expect After Sclerotherapy

Recovery after cosmetic sclerotherapy is generally straightforward. Most patients return to normal daily activities immediately after treatment, and compression stockings are worn as directed.

Because treated veins fade gradually rather than disappearing immediately, temporary changes in their appearance are part of the healing process. These may include:

Mild bruising, redness, or tenderness
Temporary firmness or small areas of trapped blood within treated veins
Treated veins appearing darker or more noticeable for a period of time before fading
Temporary pigmentation, which usually fades gradually but can persist for several months

When retained blood develops within a treated vein, it may be aspirated during follow-up when appropriate to reduce prolonged discoloration or tenderness.

Cosmetic improvement develops gradually over the weeks following treatment, and individual veins may fade at different rates.

Important Cosmetic Treatment Notes

Cosmetic sclerotherapy at IVSI is performed for spider veins and small reticular veins of the legs. We do not perform sclerotherapy injections for veins of the hands, arms, or face. Facial spider veins and other small facial vessels are generally better suited for vascular laser treatment.

When there is concern for underlying venous insufficiency, a venous Duplex ultrasound evaluation may be recommended before scheduling cosmetic treatment. If significant venous reflux is identified, patients may be advised to address the underlying venous disease before proceeding with cosmetic sclerotherapy.

👉 Learn more about Spider Veins and Venous Insufficiency

Schedule a Cosmetic Spider Vein Evaluation

If you are considering cosmetic treatment for spider veins, an initial evaluation helps determine whether sclerotherapy is appropriate and what results can reasonably be expected.

📞 Call (847) 518-9999 to schedule a cosmetic spider vein evaluation.

Medical Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace individualized medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. Treatment recommendations depend on clinical findings, diagnostic testing, venous anatomy, symptoms, and patient-specific factors. Treatment response and outcomes vary between patients, and no specific medical or cosmetic result can be guaranteed.

Learn More