Vein Treatment
Sclerotherapy
A proven, minimally invasive treatment to eliminate spider veins and reduce the appearance of varicose veins. Restore confidence in your legs with safe, effective vein therapy at Bair Medical Spa.
The sclerotherapy treatment was developed in the 1920s and remains one of the most trusted and effective methods for eliminating unwanted veins. During the treatment, a sclerosing solution is injected into the vein through a micro-needle. The tiny needle generally causes very little pain. The sclerosing solution causes the vein to blanch — turn white — then gradually disappear over the following weeks as the body naturally absorbs the treated vessel.
Spider Veins
Spider veins, or telangiectasias, are those tiny purple and red blood vessels found most commonly on the thighs or lower legs of women. They are hereditary and can form anywhere on the leg, from the top of the thigh to the ankle. Occasionally, spider veins appear on the face. While they are generally not a medical concern, many patients seek treatment because spider veins can cause self-consciousness, particularly during warmer months when legs are more visible.
Varicose veins are larger than spider veins. They can appear raised with a bluish color and can become quite painful. Varicose veins develop when the valves inside the vein weaken, allowing blood to pool and the vein to swell. In addition to their unsightly appearance, varicose veins may cause aching, heaviness, or cramping in the legs. Sclerotherapy is effective for treating both spider veins and smaller varicose veins.
The Treatment Process
During your sclerotherapy session at Bair Medical Spa, the treatment area is first cleansed thoroughly. Your clinician then uses a micro-needle to inject the sclerosing solution directly into the targeted vein. The solution displaces the blood within the vein, causing the vein walls to swell and stick together. Over time, the treated vein is absorbed by the body and gradually disappears from view.
Most patients report little discomfort during the procedure. Usually, more than one treatment session is required to achieve the best results. Studies have shown that 50 to 70 percent of treated vessels are gone for good after each session. While new veins may appear over time due to hereditary factors, these can be addressed with additional treatments. Sessions are typically scheduled at six to eight week intervals, and most patients achieve 60 to 80 percent improvement in the overall appearance of their veins.
Benefits
Why Choose Sclerotherapy
Proven Track Record
Sclerotherapy has been used safely and effectively for nearly a century. It remains the gold standard for treating spider veins and small varicose veins.
Minimally Invasive
No incisions, no general anesthesia, and no hospitalization required. A simple in-office procedure using micro-needle injections.
Little to No Downtime
Most patients return to normal daily activities immediately after treatment. Walking is encouraged right away to promote circulation.
Lasting Results
Fifty to seventy percent of treated vessels are permanently eliminated after each session, with 60 to 80 percent overall improvement.
Minimal Discomfort
The micro-needle used during injection causes very little pain. Most patients describe the sensation as a mild pinch or slight burning.
Improved Confidence
Eliminate unsightly spider veins and varicose veins so you can feel comfortable showing your legs again, no matter the season.
Ideal Candidates
Is Sclerotherapy Right for You?
Sclerotherapy is ideal for adults who are bothered by the appearance of spider veins or smaller varicose veins on their legs. You may be a good candidate if you have clusters of purple, red, or blue veins visible on your thighs, calves, or ankles that cause you self-consciousness or mild physical discomfort.
Good candidates are generally in good health and have realistic expectations about the gradual nature of results. Since spider veins are hereditary, patients should understand that new veins may develop over time and maintenance treatments can keep them in check.
Sclerotherapy is not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing, or for individuals with a history of deep vein thrombosis. During your complimentary consultation at Bair Medical Spa, your clinician will evaluate your veins, review your medical history, and determine whether sclerotherapy is the best approach for your situation.
The Process
What to Expect
Consultation
Your clinician examines the veins you wish to treat, discusses your goals, and determines whether sclerotherapy is the right approach. All consultations at Bair Medical Spa are complimentary.
Treatment
The targeted area is cleansed and a sclerosing solution is injected into each vein using a micro-needle. The solution displaces the blood and causes the vein walls to seal shut. A typical session takes 15 to 30 minutes.
Aftercare
You may be fitted with compression stockings to support healing. Walking is encouraged immediately. Avoid strenuous exercise, hot baths, and direct sun exposure on treated areas for approximately two weeks.
Results
Treated veins may initially appear darker before gradually fading over several weeks. Follow-up sessions are scheduled at six to eight week intervals. Most patients see 60 to 80 percent improvement after completing their treatment plan.
Recovery & Results
Healing and Long-Term Outcomes
Recovery from sclerotherapy is straightforward. Most patients resume their normal routine the same day, with walking encouraged immediately to promote healthy blood flow. Compression stockings are typically worn for a few days to two weeks, depending on the extent of treatment.
It is normal for treated veins to look slightly worse before they look better. You may notice darkening, mild bruising, or small raised areas at injection sites. These effects are temporary and typically resolve within a few weeks. The treated veins gradually fade as the body absorbs them over the following weeks to months.
Because spider veins are hereditary, new veins may develop over time even after successful treatment. Periodic maintenance sessions at Bair Medical Spa can address any new veins as they appear, keeping your legs looking their best year-round. Most patients find that the cumulative results of sclerotherapy are well worth the investment, with 50 to 70 percent of treated vessels eliminated permanently and overall improvement of 60 to 80 percent.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sclerotherapy sessions will I need?
Most patients require more than one sclerotherapy treatment to achieve optimal results. Sessions are typically scheduled at six to eight week intervals to allow treated veins to fully respond. The number of sessions depends on the extent and severity of your spider veins or varicose veins. During your consultation at Bair Medical Spa, your clinician will evaluate your veins and provide a personalized treatment plan.
Does sclerotherapy hurt?
Most patients report very little discomfort during sclerotherapy. The procedure uses a micro-needle to inject the sclerosing solution, which causes only a mild sensation similar to a small pinch. Some patients may feel a slight burning or cramping for a few minutes as the solution works. The procedure is well-tolerated and does not require anesthesia.
How effective is sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is highly effective for treating spider veins and smaller varicose veins. Studies show that 50 to 70 percent of treated vessels are eliminated permanently after each session. Most patients achieve 60 to 80 percent overall improvement in the appearance of their veins. While new veins may develop over time, maintenance treatments can address them as they appear.
What happens after sclerotherapy treatment?
After treatment, you may be asked to wear compression stockings for a period of time to support healing. Walking is encouraged immediately after the procedure. You should avoid strenuous exercise, hot baths, and direct sun exposure on the treated areas for about two weeks. Treated veins may appear darker initially before gradually fading and disappearing over several weeks.
Are there any side effects of sclerotherapy?
Common side effects are mild and temporary, including slight bruising, redness, or raised areas at the injection sites. Some patients notice darkened skin or small red blood vessels near the treated area, which typically resolve on their own within a few weeks to months. Serious complications are rare when the procedure is performed by an experienced clinician at Bair Medical Spa.
Who is not a good candidate for sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy may not be recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing, individuals with a history of blood clots, or those with certain circulatory conditions. Patients taking blood-thinning medications should discuss their treatment options with their clinician. A thorough evaluation during your complimentary consultation at Bair Medical Spa will determine whether sclerotherapy is appropriate for you.
Book Your Consultation
Ready to Eliminate Spider Veins?
All consultations at Bair Medical Spa are complimentary. Call us today or schedule online to learn how sclerotherapy can help you feel confident in your skin again.