Sclerotherapy

What are the Side Effects of Sclerotherapy?

While sclerotherapy is generally safe, it can result in temporary or long-term side effects. Possible side effects include:

• Bruising
• Skin discoloration
• Small red blood vessels
• Raised red areas
• Skin sores

These side effects are often mild, the most common being temporary redness or inflammation at the injection site. In rare cases, skin spotting or staining may occur, appearing as small brown spots and affecting approximately 10% of patients. If brown spots do occur, they usually fade away in about a year.

Who is a Candidate for Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is suitable for individuals with spider veins or smaller varicose veins. However, certain conditions or medical histories may disqualify someone from undergoing the treatment. Candidates should not have a history of blood-clotting disorders or be pregnant within the last three months.

Conditions That May Exclude You from Sclerotherapy:

You may be a suitable candidate for sclerotherapy if you have visible spider veins and no underlying chronic conditions. The procedure can also be used to treat smaller varicose veins. There is no age restriction for sclerotherapy, but a history of blood-clotting issues may disqualify you from the treatment.

It is recommended to avoid sclerotherapy if you’ve been pregnant or given birth within the past three months. Being medically compliant and following your doctor’s instructions are crucial for achieving the best possible outcomes from the procedure.

Even though sclerotherapy is safe, if you have met any of the following conditions, you should avoid sclerotherapy:

• Bedridden
• Pregnant or nursing
• Allergic to the sclerosant (rare)
• Taking blood thinners
• Heart conditions
• Blood clot or inflammation issues

What to Expect with Sclerotherapy

Before undergoing sclerotherapy, your physician will review your medical history, including any allergies, recent illnesses, and medications you’re taking. Your doctor may also perform an ultrasound of your leg veins to assess your condition further.

Before approving your treatment, your doctor will also need to know if you have the following:

• Any previous allergic reactions to medications
• Any recent illnesses or family history of illness
• A list of all current medications, particularly blood thinners, herbal supplements, aspirin, Aleve, or other prescription and over-the-counter drugs

On the day of the procedure, avoid shaving or applying lotion to your legs, and wear comfortable clothing. The procedure itself is quick and does not require anesthesia. 

You will lie on your back while a small needle is inserted into the vein, delivering the sclerosant solution. Some patients may experience a mild stinging or cramping sensation. After the injection, the doctor will compress and massage the area to distribute the solution.

Sclerotherapy Aftercare and Recovery

Once the procedure is complete, you can stand up and leave the office the same day. To help with healing and vein compression, it is advised to wear a compression bandage or stocking for about two weeks. During this period, avoid strenuous physical activities and sunbathing. Your doctor will schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress within a month.

Is Sclerotherapy Right for You?

Sclerotherapy can be an effective treatment for varicose or spider veins. However, it may only be suitable for some. Those with underlying medical conditions or specific vein characteristics might require different treatments. Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive option that doesn’t require hospitalization and is more cost-effective than surgical alternatives.

If you’re experiencing discomfort or are concerned about the appearance of varicose veins, consult your doctor to determine the most appropriate treatment option.