Sclerotherapy for Spider Veins and Varicose Veins in Toronto & Richmond Hill
Unwanted spider veins, reticular veins, and small varicose veins can affect both the appearance of your legs and your overall vascular comfort. At VeinCentre, we specialize in non-surgical, minimally invasive vein restoration designed to eliminate diseased surface veins quickly, safely, and effectively without general anesthesia or hospital stays.
Led by Dr. Luis Figueroa, board-certified Vascular Surgeon and Medical Director, VeinCentre provides comprehensive vascular evaluations across two modern clinics in Toronto (North York) and Richmond Hill. Our sclerotherapy procedures are expertly administered by our team of specialized nurse injectors, who possess advanced training in phlebology, micro-injection techniques, and aesthetic vein care.
Whether you are seeking treatment for visible spider vein clusters on your thighs, calves, or ankles, or managing uncomfortable localized swelling from small superficial varicose veins, VeinCentre offers personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique circulatory needs.
What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is considered the international gold-standard treatment for spider veins (telangiectasias) and smaller varicose veins. The procedure involves injecting a clinically proven sclerosant solution, either liquid or microfoam, directly into the affected blood vessel using an ultra-fine needle.
How Sclerotherapy Works Step-by-Step
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Targeted Micro-Injection: Our specialized nurse injector precisely introduces the sclerosant agent into the target vein.
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Endothelial Irritation: The chemical solution irritates the inner lining (endothelium) of the vein wall, causing controlled inflammation and localized closure.
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Vein Collapse & Sealing: The walls of the vein collapse and adhere together, preventing further blood flow through the diseased vessel.
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Circulatory Rerouting: Blood is naturally and instantly redirected into nearby healthy, deeper veins in your leg.
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Gradual Natural Absorption: Over the subsequent 3 to 6 weeks (or up to 3 to 4 months for larger reticular veins), the closed vein turns into microscopic scar tissue and is naturally reabsorbed and cleared by your body’s lymphatic system.
Why it's so effective: Sclerotherapy has been the preferred treatment for spider veins for over 80 years, with continuous improvements in technique and solutions making it safer and more effective than ever. It offers excellent cosmetic results with minimal discomfort and no recovery time needed.
The procedure is performed in both our locations (serving Toronto, Richmond Hill, and the Greater Toronto Area). Each session typically takes 15-30 minutes, and most patients need 2-4 sessions spaced several weeks apart to achieve optimal results. You can walk out of our clinic and resume your day immediately—no bandages, no downtime, just smoother legs on the way.
Who is a Good Candidate for Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy may be the perfect solution for you if you're experiencing:
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Visible spider veins (small red, blue, or purple web-like veins) on your legs or thighs
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Small varicose veins (typically less than 3mm in diameter)
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Self-consciousness about the appearance of your legs
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Desire to wear shorts, skirts, or swimwear without feeling embarrassed
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Mild aching, burning, or discomfort from spider veins
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Previous unsuccessful attempts with creams, lotions, or home remedies
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Looking for a proven, non-surgical treatment with minimal downtime
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Realistic expectations about results (improvement, not perfection)
Sclerotherapy is especially ideal if: You want a treatment specifically designed for cosmetic improvement of spider veins, you prefer a quick procedure that fits easily into your schedule, or you're looking for an affordable option with proven results.
Not recommended for: Pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with certain blood-clotting disorders, or those with severe varicose veins (which may require a different treatment approach).
The best way to determine if sclerotherapy is right for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Figueroa. He'll examine your veins and recommend the most effective treatment plan for your specific concerns.
Why Choose Sclerotherapy at VeinCentre?
✓ Gold-Standard Treatment: Sclerotherapy has been the preferred treatment for spider veins for over 80 years, with proven safety and effectiveness.
✓ No Downtime Walk in, get treated, and walk out—resume all your normal activities immediately, including work and exercise.
✓ Quick Sessions: Each treatment takes just 15-30 minutes, making it easy to fit into your busy schedule (even during your lunch break!).
✓ Minimal Discomfort: Most patients describe the sensation as a slight pinch or mild burning that lasts only seconds per injection.
✓ Beautiful Cosmetic Results: See spider veins fade gradually over 3-6 weeks, with continued improvement after each session.
✓ Affordable & Accessible: Sclerotherapy is one of the most cost-effective vein treatments available, with flexible pricing options.
✓ Expert Precision Dr. Luis Figueroa uses advanced injection techniques to target even the smallest, most stubborn spider veins with accuracy.
✓ Comprehensive Care: We monitor your progress through follow-up appointments and adjust treatment plans to ensure optimal results.
Key Benefits of Sclerotherapy
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No surgery and no general anesthetic
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Quick in-office procedure — typically 30–45 minutes
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Minimal discomfort — most patients describe a mild stinging sensation
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Little to no downtime — return to most activities the same day
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Proven, long-lasting results — treated veins don't come back
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Improved confidence — clearer, smoother-looking legs
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Can treat multiple veins in one session
How the Sclerotherapy Procedure Works
Step 1 — Consultation and Vein Mapping
Our team evaluates your veins — often with an ultrasound — and creates a personalized treatment plan. We identify which veins need treatment and in what order.
Step 2 — Preparation
You will be asked to lie down comfortably. No anesthesia is required. The skin over the treatment area is cleaned.
Step 3 — Injections
Using a very fine needle, Dr. Figueroa carefully injects the sclerosant solution into each targeted vein. You may feel a mild burning or stinging sensation, which typically passes within seconds. Multiple veins can be treated in a single session.
Step 4 — Compression
After the injections, compression pads or stockings are applied to the treated area. Compression is essential for directing blood away from the treated vein and improving results.
Step 5 — Post-Treatment
You are encouraged to walk immediately after the procedure. Avoid strenuous exercise and prolonged sun exposure for 48–72 hours. Your results will gradually improve over the following 4–8 weeks.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Sclerotherapy
Before Your Treatment
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Avoid shaving or applying lotion to the legs on the day of treatment
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Wear or bring compression stockings to your appointment
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Stay well hydrated
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Inform Dr. Figueroa of any medications you are taking
During Your Treatment
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You'll be awake throughout — the procedure is relaxing and straightforward
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Expect mild stinging at injection sites; discomfort resolves quickly
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Sessions typically take 30–45 minutes, depending on the number of veins treated
After Your Treatment
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Wear compression stockings as directed (usually 1–2 weeks)
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Walk for at least 30 minutes after treatment
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Avoid hot baths, saunas, and sun exposure for 48–72 hours
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Some bruising, swelling, or temporary darkening of the skin at treatment sites is normal
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Veins gradually fade over 4–8 weeks; full results may take up to 3–4 months
Recovery, Compression Stockings & Aftercare Protocol
One of the greatest advantages of sclerotherapy at VeinCentre is that there is no downtime. You can return to work and light daily activities immediately following your appointment.
Key Aftercare Guidelines:
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Walking & Activity: Walk for at least 15–20 minutes immediately after your appointment and maintain regular daily walking. Avoid strenuous high-impact workouts, heavy weightlifting, and intense cardio for 3 to 5 days.
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Prescription Compression Stockings: Wearing medical-grade compression stockings (typically 20–30 mmHg) for 1 to 2 weeks post-procedure helps keep the treated vein walls compressed, optimizing closure rates and reducing bruising.
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Avoid Heat Exposure: Stay away from hot tubs, saunas, hot baths, and prolonged direct sun exposure for 1 to 2 weeks, as heat can cause blood vessels to dilate.
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Managing Minor Side Effects: Mild bruising, localized redness, or temporary hyperpigmentation (light brown skin discoloration) along the treated vein pathway are normal and fade over time.
Contact Us
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