Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is sclerotherapy?
A. Using an improved medication from Europe, we inject the veins to be treated with a very small needle. The solution we use is called Sotradecol which works better and stings less than saline injections. The medication causes the veins to collapse, and the walls of the vein to stick together. They dry up and will eventually be reabsorbed by the body.
back to top
Q. Can all veins be treated?
A. Varicose veins, reticular or green/blue veins and spider veins can be injected on the legs. Veins on the face are usually lasered.
back to top
Q. What are the side effects?
A. Sometimes a stinging at the injection site will occur. If large veins are treated, it is common to have aching the first night. The injection sites are often red and raised like a bee sting. There may be bruising which will resolve. Hyperpigmentation, which is a darkening of the skin, can sometimes occur, but usually fades in a few months. Small ulcers may occur and eventually fade. Sometimes a small group of blood vessels called matting can occur. These are best treated with laser.
back to top
Q. How many treatments does it take? Will they reoccur?
A. Large veins sometimes need more than one treatment. Large veins are the feeders for the spider veins, and need to be treated to keep new spider veins from appearing. Once the vein has completely dried up after sclerotherapy, it will not return. It is possible for new ones to form in the future.
back to top
Q. How will the veins look after treatment?
A. They will look worse before they look better. A small amount of bruising is common, and the veins are more prominent for a few weeks, because of trapped blood. Compression stockings are worn for a few days afer treatment.
back to top
Q. Does it hurt?
A. A very small needle is used for the injections. Most people feel very little discomfort, and others feel more. Large veins may ache the first night after treatment.
back to top
Q. Will my activity be restricted?
A. We want the patient to exercise every day following a treatment. Immediately after a treatment, we have the patient wear compression stockings and go for a short walk. Any exercise is OK except jogging or high impact aerobics for a short time after treatment.
back to top
PATIENT INFORMATION FOR SPIDER VEIN AND VARICOSE VEIN SCLEROTHERAPY

Varicose veins and spider veins are considered cosmetic procedures in most instances. Although certain varicose veins fall under the category of medical necessity and are covered by insurance, sclerotherapy (vein injections) are not.

The fee for sclerotherapy is $300.00 per session. Financing and payment plan options are available.

Each session takes about 1/2 hour. Several sessions are usually required due to the limitation in the amount of sclerosant that can be injected and for best results.

Prior to vein surgery or sclerotherapy, class II 30-40 mmHg compression stockings should be acquired by prescription in order for them to be worn immediately after surgery.

Venous duplex (ultrasound) is always performed prior to therapy in order to visualize venous anatomy, venous incompetence and ruling out any venous clot.
back to top
POST OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS AND EXPECTATIONS FOLLOWING INJECTION SCLEROTHERAPY

Compression stockings must be worn after the procedure or until next appointment. They are to be put on 1st thing in the morning, but need not to be worn at night. Some minor pain and discomfort is normal. The injected veins may become discolored and mildly tender. This is normal.

Injected areas will appear worse prior to getting better.

Any swelling in the leg or local redness should be reported immediately.

Ambulation is encouraged, as not ambulating can predispose to deep venous clot.

Following treatment sun exposure should be avoided for one month as this may produce dicoloration at the injection sites.
back to top

Close Window