Vein Injections

Sclerotherapy is the primary treatment method for superficial leg veins and is effective in treating the varying sizes of spider veins that most patients have.

Using magnification and microscopic technique, a sclerosing agent is injected directly into the vein. This affects the lining of the vessel, causing fibrous tissue to develop, which collapses the vein and makes it disappear. Because sclerotherapy does not affect the melanin pigment in your skin, the risk of blotchy skin discoloration (hypo- or hyperpigmentation) is reduced, and patients with tanned skin are not excluded from treatment.

Although lasers may sometimes be used in treating leg veins, laser treatment generally is not as effective or predictable as sclerotherapy. Laser treatment alone may be adequate, however, for treating tiny spider veins such as those around the feet and ankles. Circumstances also exist where lasers offer the only treatment option. Although rare, a patient may be allergic to the sclerosing agent, and pregnant women should not be exposed to the chemicals used with sclerotherapy. After childbirth, it is advisable to wait approximately 6 to 12 weeks after delivery to determine if treatment is necessary as there is a high likelihood that prominent veins will regress or disappear when hormone fluctuations stabilize.

In most cases, veins that have been treated do not recur. Those that do recur or newly-developed veins may require “touch-ups” every few years.

If you are interested in scheduling a consultation for this procedure, please contact us now. We will send you additional information prior to your appointment.