Are spider veins making you think twice about wearing shorts? Do those red or bluish lines on your legs cause embarrassment or discomfort when you’re trying to enjoy summer activities? When spider veins affect your confidence or cause discomfort, sclerotherapy is a proven solution. This minimally invasive treatment has helped countless patients achieve clearer, smoother legs with little downtime.
Whether you’re considering sclerotherapy or have already scheduled your first session, understanding the complete treatment journey can help you feel more confident about your decision.
What Is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy involves injecting a specialized solution directly into problematic veins. This solution irritates the vein walls, causing them to collapse and gradually fade from view as your body naturally redirects blood flow to healthier veins. Medical professionals have refined this technique over decades, making it one of the most reliable treatments for spider veins.
Why Many Patients Choose Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is one of the best treatments for spider veins because it:
- Requires no anesthesia
- Treats both spider and varicose veins effectively
- Offers predictable results
- Provides excellent cost-effectiveness
- Allows immediate return to daily activities
- Can treat multiple veins in one session
How to Prepare for Your Sclerotherapy Treatment
Your journey begins well before the actual procedure. During your initial consultation, Dr. Lee will evaluate your veins and discuss your medical history to ensure sclerotherapy is right for you.
Before treatment, you may need to:
- Undergo a thorough vein mapping ultrasound
- Stop taking certain medications or supplements that could increase bleeding
- Avoid applying lotions or oils to your legs
- Purchase compression stockings for post-treatment care
We recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment and arranging for someone to drive you home afterward, especially if you’re treating multiple areas.
What to Expect on Your Sclerotherapy Treatment Day
When you arrive at our Little Rock office, we’ll begin by thoroughly cleaning the treatment areas. While you recline comfortably, Dr. Lee will use very fine needles to inject the sclerosing solution into the targeted veins. Most patients describe feeling minor pinches or slight burning sensations during injection, but the discomfort is typically minimal and brief.
The actual treatment usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how many veins we’re treating. Throughout the procedure, we encourage you to let us know if you experience any unusual sensations or concerns.
What Happens Immediately After Sclerotherapy Treatment
Following your sclerotherapy session, we’ll help you into your compression stockings and monitor you briefly before sending you home. You’ll be able to walk immediately after treatment – in fact, we encourage it to promote healthy blood flow.
Most patients return to their normal activities the same day, though we recommend avoiding:
- Strenuous exercise for 1-2 weeks
- Hot baths or saunas
- Direct sun exposure to treated areas
- Long periods of sitting or standing
The Week-by-Week Sclerotherapy Recovery Process
Recovery from sclerotherapy progresses in stages. Here’s what you can typically expect:
First 24-48 Hours
The treated areas may appear red or bruised, and you might notice some mild swelling. Walking regularly during this time helps minimize these effects while promoting proper healing.
First Week
Continue wearing your compression stockings as directed (typically during waking hours). Some patients notice their veins looking more prominent initially, but this is normal and temporary.
Weeks 2-6
Gradually, you’ll begin seeing improvement as the treated veins fade. Continue following your aftercare instructions, including wearing compression garments if recommended.
Beyond 6 Weeks
Maximum results usually become visible between six weeks and three months post-treatment. Some patients might require additional sessions to achieve their desired outcome.
How to Maintain the Results of Your Sclerotherapy Treatment
While sclerotherapy effectively treats existing spider veins, it cannot prevent new ones from forming. However, you can help maintain your results by:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Staying physically active with regular, low-impact exercise
- Taking breaks to move around if your job requires prolonged sitting or standing
- Wearing sunscreen on treated areas whenever they’re exposed
- Following up with any recommended maintenance treatments
- Wearing compression stockings during long flights or car rides
Common Questions About Sclerotherapy
Many patients share similar concerns about sclerotherapy. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
How Many Sclerotherapy Treatments Will I Need?
The number of treatments varies based on the extent and severity of your spider veins. While some patients achieve their desired results after one session, others might need several treatments spaced about six weeks apart.
Does Insurance Cover Sclerotherapy?
Coverage depends on whether the treatment is considered medically necessary or cosmetic. We can help you understand your insurance benefits and payment options during your consultation.
When Can I Resume Exercise?
Light walking is encouraged immediately, but you should avoid high-impact activities for at least two weeks after treatment. Dr. Lee will provide specific guidance based on your situation and lifestyle.
What About Sun Exposure?
Avoid sun exposure to treated areas for at least two weeks after treatment, as UV rays can cause hyperpigmentation in healing skin. When you do go outside, use broad-spectrum sunscreen.
What Are the Potential Side Effects and Complications?
While sclerotherapy is generally safe, it’s important to understand potential side effects, which may include:
- Temporary bruising or discoloration
- Mild swelling or discomfort
- Small clusters of red blood vessels
- Darker skin patches along treated veins
These effects typically resolve on their own within a few weeks to months. Serious complications are rare when treatment is performed by an experienced provider like Dr. Lee.
Take the First Step Toward Clearer, More Beautiful Legs
If spider veins are affecting your comfort or confidence, sclerotherapy might be your solution. Contact Dr. Mimi Lee’s office to schedule your consultation and learn whether this proven treatment could help you achieve the clear, smooth legs you desire.
Our team will carefully evaluate your concerns, answer your questions, and develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your goals. Let us help you take the first step toward healthier, more beautiful legs.