Visual Sclerotherapy

Visual sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat small visually unappealing veins in the legs, hands, chest and elsewhere. The procedure is called “visual” sclerotherapy because the target veins are visible to the naked eye. When these vessels are not visible, we use ultrasound to identify them .

During visual sclerotherapy, an FDA-approved medicine called 1% polidocanol is injected into the vein. This medicine causes the vein to shut down and slowly become absorbed by the body.

There are two types of visual sclerotherapy: foam and liquid. Liquid is typically used in telangiectasia and small spider veins. Foam sclerotherapy involves mixing the liquid sclerosant with gas to increase potency and improve results. Foam is used in spider veins and larger veins.

What to Expect

After the procedure, a compression stocking is worn for at least 3 days. We recommend longer, up to 1 week. Doing so improves success of the treatment and reduces the side-effects, such as skin darkening and bruising. Walking and other normal activity is encouraged the day of the procedure. Most people return to work the next day.

Depending on the quantity of veins to be treated, multiple sessions will be required. We perform sclerotherapy every 4 weeks.

While visual sclerotherapy is a cosmetic procedure not covered by insurance. Many patients find the procedure very valuable.

Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy

When varicose veins are not easily visible but are causing symptoms of aching and cramping, ultrasound guided-sclerotherapy can be used. This technique uses color duplex ultrasound to identify veins under the skin and help guide the needle during foam sclerotherapy. Foam sclerotherapy involves injecting a medicine called 1% polidocanol, causing the vein to close down. Injections during this procedure are usually painless. This technique is usually performed in combination with other procedures to improve vein disease and reduce the visibility of varicose veins.

What to Expect

Following the procedure, the leg is wrapped for 3 days. Then, the wrap is removed at home or in our clinic. Immediately following the procedure, walking is permitted and encouraged.

Depending on the quantity of veins to be treated, multiple sessions will be required. We perform these sessions every 4 weeks.

This procedure may be covered by insurance. We will review this possibility with you during your consultation.

Meet ClearlyDerm’s Vein Disease Expert, Andrew Styperek, MD.

Contact ClearlyDerm’s Surgery & Vein Center at 561-353-3376.