What Is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a common procedure used to treat small surface veins that are no longer functioning properly. Your provider injects a solution directly into the vein using a tiny needle. The medication, called a sclerosant, causes the vein to seal shut, and over time, your body naturally reabsorbs it.
At North Shore Vein Center, this procedure is done right in the office. There’s no surgery or general anesthesia, and most patients walk out the same day feeling completely fine. The treatment doesn’t remove the vein immediately; it fades gradually over the following weeks.
What Sclerotherapy Helps Treat
Sclerotherapy is most often used for spider veins, which are small, visible veins close to the surface of the skin. They tend to form clusters, sometimes red, blue, or purple, and often show up on the thighs, calves, or ankles. These veins may not always hurt, but some patients report aching or heaviness, especially at the end of the day.
For this kind of vein, sclerotherapy remains the preferred approach. At North Shore Vein Center, most patients see about a 60-80% improvement in the appearance of the treated area over time. Some notice early results in as little as three to six weeks, while larger leg veins often take a bit longer and may need more than one visit.
Who Is a Candidate?
If you’re bothered by spider veins, there’s a good chance this treatment could help. That includes people dealing with cosmetic concerns, as well as those who experience discomfort like burning, swelling, or general leg fatigue.
Before moving forward, your provider will review your medical history and take a close look at the veins in question. Sometimes, deeper veins need to be evaluated with ultrasound before treating what’s visible at the surface.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you’ll likely be asked to wait. Otherwise, the decision comes down to what you’re experiencing and what you hope to change.
What Happens During Treatment
A typical sclerotherapy appointment lasts about 30 minutes. You’ll be lying down, relaxed, while the provider prepares your skin. They’ll use a very fine needle; most patients describe only a mild sting, and they inject the solution into each targeted vein.
Some veins require a foam version of the solution, especially if they’re larger or tougher to treat. After each injection, your provider may apply slight pressure or a small pad to keep the vein closed.
Only one area is usually treated at a time. If you need a follow-up, that second visit will be scheduled between four to six weeks after the first visit.
Recovery and What to Expect
Recovery is quick for most people. You’ll be encouraged to walk shortly after the procedure, and many patients return to work or errands the same day. Your provider may suggest wearing compression stockings for a few days to help the veins stay closed while they heal.
Bruising or light discoloration can happen, but it usually fades on its own. Small veins often improve within a month. If the vein is larger or more stubborn, expect to see results gradually over several months. Some people need two sessions for full clearance, depending on how the vein responds.
Learn More at North Shore Vein Center
At North Shore Vein Center, we offer safe, proven solutions like sclerotherapy, all performed in a comfortable, office-based setting. Whether you’re looking to feel better in your skin, reduce discomfort, or both, we’ll help you understand your options and create a care plan that fits.
Feel free to call our New Hyde Park office at 516-869-8346 if you’d prefer to speak directly with someone on our team. Alternatively, you can schedule a consultation online at a time that works for you.