Spider veins — those small, web-like clusters of visible vessels most often seen on the legs — are extremely common, and sclerotherapy is considered by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) to be the treatment of choice for spider leg veins.
How Sclerotherapy Works
A sclerosing solution is injected directly into the targeted vein using a very fine needle. Per the ASDS, this causes the vein to scar and collapse, forcing blood to reroute through healthier veins; the collapsed vein is then gradually reabsorbed into surrounding tissue and fades from view.
What It Treats
Sclerotherapy is most commonly used for spider veins and related small vessels, most often on the legs, and can also improve associated symptoms like aching, swelling, burning, or night cramps.
What to Expect
Per the ASDS, the procedure is typically performed in-office without anesthesia and takes about 15 minutes to an hour depending on the extent of the veins treated. Treated veins tend to fade within a few weeks, though it can occasionally take up to two months to see full results, and some patients need more than one session.
Aftercare
The ASDS notes that you can stand and walk immediately after treatment — in fact, movement is encouraged to help prevent blood clots — and most people resume normal activities right away. Compression stockings or bandages are typically worn over the treatment area for one to three weeks, and sun exposure to the treated area should be avoided for about two weeks following the procedure.
Learn more about sclerotherapy for spider veins at Journelle Skin, or schedule a consultation to evaluate your veins and build a treatment plan.