About this treatment
Treat spider veins from inside the vessel.
Sclerotherapy uses a precise injection of a sclerosing solution into spider veins. The treated vessel gradually closes and fades as the body clears it, and the number of sessions depends on the size and extent of the veins; laser therapy may also be recommended as a complement.
A sclerosing solution is injected directly into the unwanted vessel. The treated vein closes and gradually becomes less visible as the body clears it over time.
Sclerotherapy is commonly considered for spider veins. Temporary bruising, swelling or discolouration can occur, and laser vein therapy may complement the plan in some cases.
Choose the method by the vessel.
The appearance of a vein does not reveal everything about its depth or the circulation around it. The clinic reviews the vessel pattern, symptoms, health history and previous vein treatment before deciding whether an injection approach is appropriate.
Sclerotherapy and surface laser treatment can complement each other, but they are not interchangeable for every vessel. Larger veins or symptoms such as persistent swelling, pain or skin change may require assessment outside a cosmetic treatment plan.
Look at symptoms as well as visible veins.
Sclerotherapy uses an injection into selected veins. Before discussing cosmetic improvement, describe aching, swelling or other leg symptoms and any history of vein treatment. Visible spider veins and larger symptomatic veins may call for different assessment and care.
Ask which veins are appropriate for the proposed plan and what follow-up involves. Bring up travel, work and exercise commitments when discussing aftercare. The goal is to understand the treatment course as a whole, rather than judging a vein immediately after one appointment.
Common questions
How does sclerotherapy work?
Sclerotherapy places a solution inside a selected vein to irritate its lining and help it close. The treated vessel fades over time rather than being removed during the appointment. Ask which veins are being targeted, how progress would be reviewed and whether the visible pattern suggests a deeper issue that should be assessed before cosmetic treatment begins.
Which veins can be treated?
It is commonly considered for spider veins, particularly on the legs. Suitability depends on more than appearance, so report aching, swelling, skin changes and previous vein problems. Ask whether your concern can be managed at the clinic or whether diagnostic assessment or another specialist's care should come first.
Is the treatment uncomfortable?
You may feel the needle and brief stinging as solution enters the vein. Comfort varies with the area and individual sensitivity, so discuss concerns before treatment rather than relying on another person's description. Ask what sensations are expected and how the provider monitors the area, and speak up about unexpected pain during the procedure.
What happens during recovery?
Bruising, tenderness, swelling or temporary discolouration can occur. Compression may be recommended, with instructions tailored to your treatment; clarify the garment, timing and activity guidance before your appointment. Seek urgent medical assessment for new marked leg swelling or pain, and emergency help for chest pain or breathing difficulty, rather than assuming these symptoms are routine recovery.
How does the clinic choose between sclerotherapy and laser?
The assessment considers vessel size, location and depth, your skin and medical history, and whether a vein can be approached appropriately with an injection. Ask why the recommended method fits your particular veins and what its limitations are. Some patterns may need staged care or further investigation, so the consultation should explain the reasoning rather than simply offering a choice of devices.
Will treated veins disappear immediately?
No. Fading happens gradually after a treated vessel closes, and more than one visit may be needed. Ask when it is reasonable to compare progress and whether additional vessels could become visible later. Treatment of existing veins does not mean you cannot develop new ones, so expectations should include possible future assessment rather than a permanent guarantee of vein-free legs.
Recommendations are informational. A clinical consultation is required to confirm suitability, risks and expected results.
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