Spider and varicose veins are a normal part of aging or some medical conditions, and they can sometimes be painful. A dermatologist can eliminate or improve their appearance through sclerotherapy. This treatment option is safe and effective, and it has been used in some for more than 150 years. Here’s what to expect if you choose this treatment.

What Happens During Sclerotherapy

During sclerotherapy treatment, a physician injects a solution into the visible veins or blood vessels to shrink them. This is a non-surgical procedure that is done in your doctor’s office. Patients could feel a small pinch or prick from the needle, but the discomfort is minimal, and no anesthesia is needed. The solution might cause a slight tingling or burning sensation. After the injection, the doctor will massage the veins, and they may suggest that you wear compression socks or a compression bandage for the rest of the day.

What to Expect After Your Treatment

After your treatment, you may experience some bruising or redness around the injection site, small sores, or dark lines or spots on the skin. This will go away as quickly as a few days, but it can take up to several weeks. The area may also feel sore or tender. You should begin to see results within two to four weeks. Multiple treatments may be required to get the results you’re seeking.

You can resume normal physical activity after your procedure, and in your doctor may, in fact, recommend that you stay active to prevent blood clots from forming. You should also avoid tanning or going into direct sunlight at first to prevent dark spots from forming around the injection site. Occasionally, small blood vessels develop around the vein that was injected, but these typically go away without treatment.

Lauren A Daman MD, PC in Hartford, CT, is an office of dermatologists who treat medical and cosmetic skin conditions to give you healthy, beautiful skin that you feel great in. They use the latest technology to bring patients the best treatment options, including Botox, microdermabrasion, sclerotherapy, and more. Call (860) 246-3533 to schedule a consultation, and visit them online for more information on their services.