How does sclerotherapy work?

A clinician cleans the skin, places a fine needle in the target vein, and injects the solution. The vein is no longer the preferred route for blood flow; the body gradually breaks down the treated vessel. Sclerotherapy is commonly used for spider veins and some varicose veins. It does not treat every visible vein, and several treated areas may need separate sessions. Compression, movement, and follow-up depend on the vein pattern and your clinician’s assessment.

Tell the clinician about previous clots, circulation problems, pregnancy, medicines, allergies, and skin inflammation near the area. After treatment, follow the advised walking and compression plan, keep the injection sites clean, and avoid rubbing them. Temporary stinging, bruising, swelling, or colour change can occur. Ask whether a different approach, such as pulsed dye laser treatment, fits your vein type.

Contact your clinic promptly for worsening pain, marked swelling, spreading redness, a blister, or a wound at an injection site. Seek urgent medical help for sudden chest pain, breathlessness, coughing blood, or one-sided leg swelling and pain. These symptoms need assessment rather than watchful waiting.

Which veins are being treated, what solution will be used, and how many visits might I need? What aftercare and compression are appropriate for me? Which changes are expected, and when should I contact you?