Comprehensive Guide to Sclerotherapy Treatment for Varicose Veins
- Ontario Vascular
- Aug 6
- 3 min read
What You Need to Know
Varicose veins affect nearly one in four adults. They can cause aching, swelling, and visible vein patterns that may affect quality of life. Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive treatment that helps close and fade these veins, restoring smoother circulation.
This guide covers:
What sclerotherapy is
How it works
What to expect before, during, and after the procedure
Common side effects and safety
How it compares to other vein treatments
Cost and insurance basics
⚠️ Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before making medical decisions.
✅ What Is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure where a solution—called a sclerosant—is injected into abnormal veins. The solution irritates the inner lining of the vein, causing it to collapse and seal shut. The body gradually absorbs the closed vein, and blood is naturally rerouted through healthier vessels.
✅ What Types of Sclerotherapy Exist?
Type | Description | Best For |
Liquid Sclerotherapy | Clear solution injected into the vein | Small to medium veins |
Foam Sclerotherapy | Sclerosant mixed with air to form a thick foam | Larger or more tortuous veins |
Ultrasound-Guided | Uses real-time imaging for precision | Deeper veins not visible on skin |
✅ What Veins Can Be Treated?
Sclerotherapy is used for superficial vein issues such as:
Spider veins (telangiectasia): Thin red, blue, or purple veins
Reticular veins: Mid-sized veins beneath the skin
Varicose veins: Enlarged, twisted veins causing symptoms
✅ What Happens During the Procedure?
It’s done in an outpatient clinic setting.
The provider uses a fine needle to inject the sclerosant into each targeted vein.
The procedure may use ultrasound guidance for deeper veins.
Each session lasts about 15 to 45 minutes.
✅ Is It Painful?
Most people feel only mild stinging or cramping during the injection. No anesthesia is required. Any post-procedure soreness is typically managed with over-the-counter medications and compression stockings.
✅ How Effective Is Sclerotherapy?
Measure | Outcome |
Success Rate | 50–80% of treated veins improve per session |
Visible Results | 3–6 weeks for spider veins, 3–4 months for varicose veins |
Multiple Sessions? | Yes, usually 2–4 treatments spaced 4–6 weeks apart |
✅ What Are Common Side Effects?
Most side effects are mild and temporary:
Bruising or redness at the injection site
Itching or swelling
Temporary brown discoloration
Rare but serious complications include:
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Allergic reaction
Skin ulceration
Seek immediate medical care if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or signs of infection.
✅ Aftercare: What Should You Do?
Wear them day and night for at least one week
Help prevent blood pooling and improve healing
Activity Tips:
Walk regularly
Avoid strenuous activity for 48 hours
Elevate legs when resting
At-Home Comfort Measures:
Cold compresses
Pain relievers if needed
Keep injection sites clean and dry
✅ Cost and Insurance
Cost Factors:
Number of sessions
Size and number of veins treated
Geographic location and clinic policies
Insurance Coverage:
Often covered if medically necessary (pain, swelling, skin changes)
Cosmetic treatments for spider veins are usually not covered
Payment Options May Include:
Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
✅ Sclerotherapy vs. Other Treatments
Treatment | How It Works | Pros | Cons |
The injection causes the vein to close | Minimally invasive, cost-effective | May require repeat sessions | |
Laser fibre heats and closes the vein | Good for larger veins | Heat-related discomfort | |
Heat via a catheter closes the vein | Permanent for larger veins | More invasive, higher cost | |
Vein removal through incisions | Long-term solution | Recovery time, surgical risk |
Understanding sclerotherapy, how it works, and what to expect helps you feel confident in discussing options with a vein specialist. It’s a safe, effective method when performed under expert vascular care.
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