What is Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy treats small red or bluish spider veins on the legs. Although these veins carry blood, they are not necessary for circulation and may be considered unsightly. During sclerotherapy the dermatologist injects one of several kinds of solutions with a very fine needle directly into the blood vessel. The blood vessel will turn into scar tissue and become lighter or may disappear altogether.

Length of Appointment

20 – 30 Minutes

Before the Procedure

Purchase compression stockings to wear immediately following the treatment.

20 – 30 mm Hg are considered moderate and should be worn for three weeks after the procedure during the day only.

• Do not use moisturizers on your legs for 24 hours before a treatment.
• Do not take aspirin containing products (e.g. Bufferin, Anacin, Excedrin, Dristan, Motrin, Advil) or ibuprofen, or drink alcohol beverages for ten days before your treatment. Such medications increase the potential for bleeding and bruising.
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure for 2 weeks before a treatment.
• Wear (or bring) shorts, bathing suit, of leotard for the treatment.
• Do not wear tight clothing on the day of treatment. A full skirt, shorts, or very loose slacks are ideal.
• Do not bring children to the appointment.

During the Procedure

• You may feel a slight sting as the solution enters each vein.

Special Information

• Many patients require repeat treatments. If a substantial number of veins persist, schedule another session after 4 – 6 weeks.
• You must not fly in airplane within 2 weeks of having treatment.
• You must not have this treatment if you are pregnant, or for six months after delivery.

Following the Procedure

Compression stockings: Put on your compression stockings immediately. Keep your compression stockings on for 72 hours without removing them. Keep them on at bedtime. Then they should be worn daily for at least 4 – 6 weeks during the day and remove the at bedtime. Compression stockings will enhance healing, decrease discoloration and prevent phlebitis. Always put on your compression stockings before getting out of bed in the morning.

Activity: Immediately after the procedure you will be required to put on compression stockings. We recommend that you walk briskly for 30 minutes daily (including the day of the procedure). The walking will enhance healing. Avoid strenuous physical activities such as high impact aerobics or weight lifting for 72 hours. Do not stand or sit in one place for more than 20 minutes at a time. Prolonged sitting or standing may lead to phlebitis (inflammation of the blood vessels). If you must stand or sit, move from heel to toe in a rocking motion to exercise your calf muscles.

Hygiene: Take sponge baths the first 72 hours, then you may shower. Avoid hot baths or swimming for 2 weeks. Cool your legs with cold water after each shower. Please do not shave or moisturize for at least 48 hours after the treatment. Avoid prolonged sun exposure for 2 – 3 weeks after treatment.

Discomfort: If you experience any itching, burning, and/or cramping sensations, walk around for several minutes. This should help relieve the discomfort. If burning and/or itching is not relieved by walking put ice in a zip lock bag (to keep the dressings dry) and apply it over the sites/s for 10 – 15 minutes. Avoid rubbing, picking, or scratching the area. If you experience mild discomfort, you can take Tylenol for the 24 hours. After 24 hours you may take Motrin or Advil or preferred OTC pain medication. If there is any concern regarding these medications please check with your internists.

Lumps: You may also feel some tender "Lumps" under the skin where the veins have been treated, usually dark green in color. These tender "Lumps" are a normal part of the healing process and are called "trapped blood". Some large trapped blood will be aspirated within two to four weeks after each treatment. Lumpy areas without tenderness are an indication of scar tissue within the closed veins and are also a normal part of the healing process.

Bruising: You will experience some bruising and skin discoloration. DO NOT be alarmed if you bruise badly. Discoloration usually goes away within 8-12 weeks, but may be longer for some people. If you do not have any kidney problems, you may take Vitamin C 1000-mg daily to decrease bruising and promote healing.

If you experience any discomfort unrelieved by above measures or have any questions, please call the office at (408)851-4650.