Sclerotherapy

Minimally invasive treatment that closes off varicose and spider veins

Sclerotherapy is a nonsurgical procedure to treat varicose and spider veins. These conditions affect 20 percent of U.S. adults and, though mostly a cosmetic issue, can be painful or a sign of more serious problems. You may be a good candidate if other treatments haven’t worked or if your case is particularly severe.

Sclerotherapy is one of many proven treatments available from our Vein Program. Our doctors will work with you to relieve pain, prevent complications and improve your appearance by creating a customized treatment plan for your varicose or spider veins.

What to expect from sclerotherapy

Your doctor will clean the area in which the varicose or spider veins are located. The doctor will inject each vein with a solution that irritates it and causes it to swell shut. This blocks blood from being able to enter the vein. Over time, the vein will turn into scar tissue and fade away.

The procedure usually takes about a half hour, though it depends on the number of veins being treated. Your doctor will ask you to walk around afterward to help prevent the formation of blood clots. You should be able to resume your normal activities the same day or the day after the procedure.

Conditions