Vein Injections (Sclerotherapy)

Sclerotherapy effectively treats varicose and spider veins, and is often the preferred treatment for small varicose veins.

Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution directly into the vein. The sclerotherapy solution causes the vein to scar, forcing blood to reroute through healthier veins. The collapsed vein is reabsorbed into local tissue and eventually fades.

After sclerotherapy, treated veins tend to fade within a few weeks, although occasionally it may take a month or more to see the full results. In some instances, several sclerotherapy treatments may be needed.

While sclerotherapy is often done for cosmetic purposes — to improve the appearance of varicose and spider veins—the procedure can also improve related symptoms such as: aching, swelling and burning. Serious complications are rare, but possible side effects at the site of the injection include bruising, raised red areas and mild inflammation, which usually disappear within a few days.