How Sclerotherapy Can Effectively Treat Spider Veins
Spider veins are a common concern for many people, especially on the legs. While they’re often thought of as a cosmetic issue, spider veins can sometimes be associated with discomfort, aching, or a feeling of leg fatigue. The good news is that sclerotherapy is a well-established, effective treatment option that can significantly improve both the appearance of spider veins and related symptoms.
What Is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive, in-office treatment used to close small, damaged veins near the surface of the skin. During the procedure, a specialized medication (called a sclerosant) is carefully injected into the spider vein.
The medication causes the vein walls to gently collapse and seal shut. Once closed, blood is naturally rerouted to healthier veins, and the treated vein is gradually absorbed by the body over time.
Why Sclerotherapy Works So Well for Spider Veins
Spider veins are small and close to the surface of the skin, which makes them ideal candidates for sclerotherapy. Because the treatment targets the vein directly, it is both precise and effective.
Benefits of sclerotherapy include:
- Targeted treatment of visible spider veins
- Minimal discomfort during and after the procedure
- No surgery or incisions
- Little to no downtime
- Gradual, natural-looking improvement
For many patients, sclerotherapy remains the gold standard for spider vein treatment.
What to Expect During Treatment
Sclerotherapy is typically performed in the clinic and usually takes less than an hour, depending on the number of veins treated.
Here’s what most patients can expect:
- The skin is cleansed and prepared
- A very fine needle is used to inject the medication into the spider veins
- Mild stinging or pressure may be felt briefly
- The treated area is monitored, and compression may be recommended afterward
Most patients are able to return to normal activities the same day.
When Will You See Results?
Results from sclerotherapy are gradual, not instant. Over the weeks following treatment:
- Treated spider veins begin to fade
- Skin tone appears more even
- Symptoms such as aching or heaviness may improve
Some patients require more than one session to achieve their desired results, depending on the extent of spider veins and whether underlying vein issues are present.
Is Sclerotherapy Safe?
Yes. When performed by experienced medical providers, sclerotherapy is considered safe and well-tolerated. It has been used for decades and remains one of the most reliable treatments for spider veins.
As with any medical procedure, a proper evaluation is important to ensure the treatment is appropriate and to rule out deeper vein problems that could affect long-term results.
Why Evaluation Matters Before Treating Spider Veins
Not all spider veins are the same. In some cases, they are connected to larger underlying veins that are not functioning properly. Treating surface veins alone without addressing deeper issues can lead to less effective or short-lived results.
At Vein Center of Wisconsin, treatment begins with understanding why spider veins have developed. When needed, non-invasive ultrasound imaging helps guide care and ensures treatment is both effective and appropriate.
How Vein Center of Wisconsin Can Help
At Vein Center of Wisconsin, sclerotherapy is never a one-size-fits-all solution. Our approach focuses on:
- Thoughtful evaluation
- Clear explanation of findings and options
- Personalized treatment planning
- Medically guided care in a calm, professional setting
Whether your goal is to improve appearance, relieve discomfort, or both, our team is committed to helping you feel informed and confident in your care.
Take the Next Step
If spider veins are something you’ve been thinking about—or living with longer than you’d like—sclerotherapy may be an effective option for you.
We’d be glad to welcome you to our clinic, answer your questions, and help you understand whether sclerotherapy is right for your situation.
Schedule a consultation with Vein Center of Wisconsin and take the first step toward healthier-looking, more comfortable legs.
