Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a safe and gentle treatment used to improve the appearance and symptoms of spider veins and small varicose veins. It’s a minimally invasive procedure, meaning there’s no downtime.
Treatments
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Sclerotherapy
During the treatment, your healthcare provider injects a small amount of a special solution—called a sclerosant—directly into the affected vein. This solution causes the vein walls to stick together and eventually close. Once the vein is sealed, your body naturally reroutes blood through nearby healthy veins. Over time, the treated vein fades and becomes much less visible.

Types of Sclerotherapy

  • Liquid Sclerotherapy
    The sclerosant is injected in liquid form and is ideal for treating small surface veins, such as spider veins or reticular veins (the fine blue veins under the skin).
  • Foam Sclerotherapy
    In this method, the sclerosant is gently mixed with air or gas to create a foam. The foam spreads more evenly inside the vein, making it especially effective for treating larger or deeper veins.

Why It’s Done

Sclerotherapy helps:

  • Improve the appearance of visible veins.
  • Relieve symptoms such as aching, burning, swelling, or cramping.
  • Treat superficial veins that are not suitable for surgery.

What to Expect During Treatment

  • The skin is cleaned, and a fine needle is used for the injections.
  • You may feel mild stinging or burning for a few seconds.
  • The procedure takes about 15–45 minutes, depending on how many veins are treated.
  • No anesthesia or downtime is usually needed.

After the Procedure

  • Walk right after treatment to promote circulation.
  • Wear compression stockings as instructed (usually for 7–14 days).
  • Avoid hot baths and saunas for one week.
  • Avoid sun exposure for 4 weeks
  • Some bruising or discoloration is normal and fades over time.
  • Several sessions may be needed for best results.

Possible Side Effects

Most are mild and temporary:

  • Redness or bruising at injection sites
  • Itching or slight swelling
  • Small brown lines (temporary skin pigmentation)
  • Tiny new vessels (matting)

Rare complications include allergic reactions, inflammation, or small skin ulcers.

When Sclerotherapy May Not Be Recommended

  • During pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • If you have a blood clot or severe vein disease
  • If you’re allergic to the treatment solution

Results

  • Most patients notice improvement within a few weeks to a few months.
  • About 70–90% of treated veins fade significantly.
  • New veins may appear over time and can also be treated.
Is sclerotherapy a good option for you?
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FAQs

Get all your varicose and spider vein treatment questions answered with our comprehensive guide to understanding procedures, insurance coverage, and recovery.

Sclerotherapy

What is sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a simple injection treatment used to close and fade unwanted veins — most often spider veins or small varicose veins. A small amount of solution is injected into the vein, causing it to seal off and disappear over time.

What is the difference between liquid and foam sclerotherapy?

  • Liquid sclerotherapy is ideal for small surface veins (like spider veins).
  • Foam sclerotherapy uses the same medicine mixed with air to form a foam, which is more effective for larger or deeper veins.

Is sclerotherapy painful?

Most patients feel only a slight sting or mild burning for a few seconds during the injections. The procedure is very well tolerated — no anesthesia or sedation is required.

How long does the procedure take?

A treatment session usually lasts 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the number of veins treated.

How many treatments will I need?

This depends on the size, number, and type of veins. Many patients see improvement after one to three sessions spaced several weeks apart.

What should I do after the treatment?

  • Walk immediately after your session.
  • Wear compression stockings for two weeks.
  • Avoid hot baths and saunas for at least 7 days.
  • Avoid sun exposure for 4 weeks
  • Avoid strenuous exercise for a few days.

When will I see results?

Veins typically begin to fade within 3 to 6 weeks. Larger veins may take a few months to fully disappear.

Are results permanent?

The majority of treated veins are permanently closed and do not come back. However, new veins can develop over time — these can also be treated with additional sessions if needed.

What are the possible side effects?

Most are minor and temporary:

  • Redness or bruising
  • Itching or mild swelling
  • Small brown spots or lines that fade over time.

Serious complications are very rare.

Can I return to work or daily activities?

Yes! You can return to normal activity right away, though high-impact exercise should be avoided for about a week.

Who should not have sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is not recommended if you are:

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Have a blood clot or active vein inflammation
  • Are allergic to the treatment solution

What other vein treatments are available?

Depending on your vein condition, other options may include:

  • VenaSeal™ (medical glue treatment)
  • Phlebectomy (small vein removal procedure)

Do I need to wear compression stockings after sclerotherapy?

Yes! Compression stockings play an important role in your recovery. They gently support your veins, help improve circulation, and make sure the treated veins stay closed while your body heals.

You’ll need to wear them continuously for the first 7 days, unless your doctor gives you other instructions. After that, it’s best to wear them during the day for another week.

The height of the stockings depends on where you had treatment:

  • Thigh-high or Pantihose stockings are best for veins treated on or above the knee.
  • Knee-high stockings are usually enough if only the lower legs were treated.

They may not be the most stylish accessory—but your legs will thank you later!

Why should I protect the treated areas from sun exposure?

After sclerotherapy, your skin is a little more sensitive as it heals. If exposed to the sun too soon, the treated areas can develop dark spots (hyperpigmentation). To help your skin heal beautifully, avoid direct sunlight or tanning for about 4 weeks. When you’re outdoors, cover the area or apply SPF 30+ sunscreen. Protecting your skin not only prevents pigmentation—it helps ensure the best cosmetic results from your treatment.

Is Sclerotherapy covered by insurance?

No, Sclerotherapy is not covered by provincial health plans or private insurance. The staff will review the treatment cost and payment options with you before the procedure.

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