Spider veins are small, visible veins that typically appear on the face, outer thighs, calves, ankles, and legs. Though often associated with aging, these veins can develop as early as one’s twenties. Prolonged periods of sitting or standing, excess weight, sun exposure, and pregnancy can all contribute to the formation of spider veins. If you’re self-conscious about their appearance, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Candace Spann offers sclerotherapy to help reduce their visibility and enhance your confidence in your skin.

Sclerotherapy treats veins by injecting a sclerosing solution directly into the vein. The solution causes permanent damage to the vein, causing it to collapse and absorb into the body. Sclerotherapy is a procedure that will be tweaked for every individual based on the number, size, and location of the veins that are being treated. In most cases, there is usually one injection for every inch of spider vein. As each injection takes place, the surgeon will place light pressure on the injection site with a cotton ball and ointment.

Sclerotherapy is performed in an accredited surgical facility. During the procedure, patients will be given a local anesthetic in areas to diminish discomfort, although the patient should only feel a few small pricks. Recovery following vein treatment through sclerotherapy does not require any downtime or absence from the workplace. Most individuals can resume normal activities within 24 hours, and will wear a compression stocking for a few days while the legs heal. Patients will begin to see their veins fading within 2 to 3 weeks, with maximum results being revealed around 6 weeks after the treatment.

Sclerotherapy at Couture Dermatology and Plastic Surgery offers numerous benefits, making it an effective solution for spider veins and small varicose veins. This minimally invasive procedure involves small injections that target and close off the veins, leading to smoother, clearer skin with minimal downtime. Sclerotherapy provides long-lasting results, as treated veins typically don’t return, and it’s a safe, FDA-approved treatment with a low risk of complications. The procedure is quick, requires no anesthesia, and has little to no scarring. Additionally, it can be customized to meet your unique needs, helping you achieve beautiful, vein-free skin with minimal discomfort or recovery time.

One of the main advantages of sclerotherapy over other treatments is that it is minimally invasive. Unlike surgical options, sclerotherapy involves only small needle injections and doesn’t require incisions, which means a quicker recovery and no extensive downtime. Most patients experience only mild discomfort during the procedure, with no anesthesia required. The treatment also carries little risk of scarring since fine needles are used, making it ideal for patients looking for a non-invasive, no-mark solution to spider veins.

In addition to its effectiveness, sclerotherapy offers long-lasting results. Once veins are treated, they typically do not return, unlike with some other treatments like laser therapy, which may require more frequent sessions to maintain results. Sclerotherapy is also more cost-effective compared to other options, such as vein stripping or surgery, and has a lower risk of complications. Its safety and minimal side effects make it a well-tolerated option for most patients.