Spider Vein Removal (Sclerotherapy)

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What Is Spider Vein Sclerotherapy (or Varicose Vein Removal)?

One of the most common treatments in recent years for spider veins and varicose veins is sclerotherapy (or varicose vein removal). Women tend to be more prone to spider veins and varicose veins than men.

Spider and varicose vein removal is usually a quick procedure, lasting approximately 15 to 45 minutes. Follow-up procedures are often necessary for optimal results. While the procedure lightens the appearance of the veins currently on the skin surface, it does not prevent the appearance of new veins.

On the day of the procedure, patients should avoid wearing moisturizer, sunblock, or any kind of oil-based product on the affected skin. Anesthesia is usually not necessary for spider vein sclerotherapy since patients typically experience minimal pain during the procedure. The plastic surgeon cleanses the skin and stretches it taut before injecting the sclerosing agent at one-inch intervals along each vein. A patient may receive as few as 5 or as many as 40 injections in a single session.

The surgeon applies a cotton ball and compression tape to each section of skin as it is treated; these remain in place for approximately 48 hours post treatment. The patient may need to wear support hose for the first 72 hours after spider vein sclerotherapy. Some cramping in the legs may be apparent for the first 1 to 2 days. Due to bruising, patients usually avoid wearing skirts or shorts for approximately 2 weeks. Patients should allow one month of healing before repeating the procedure in the same area.