Spider Vein Treatment



Subscribe for Updates
Important Risk Information

Does health insurance cover sclerotherapy?

When sclerotherapy is done for cosmetic reasons, the cost of the treatment is not covered by insurance. If sclerotherapy is performed to alleviate physical symptoms of varicose or spider veins, it may be covered. Check with your insurer to determine eligibility. [Back to top]

How long does a sclerotherapy treatment session last?

Generally speaking, sclerotherapy treatment sessions last up to 30 minutes. Most individuals have multiple spider veins or small varicose veins that need treatment, and only 15 to 20 injections can be done during each session, so the length of each session and the number of sessions is determined by the amount of work to be done, Sclerotherapy is a process, not a one-time treatment, so most patients require two or three sessions at weekly intervals. [Back to top]

What happens after a sclerotherapy treatment?

Once a sclerotherapy treatment session is completed, the injection sites are covered with sterile dressings and the entire area is wrapped in an elastic bandage, which is left in place for two to three days to minimize bruising and swelling. The legs should also be elevated for two to four hours after the procedure. The use of compression stockings is recommended for up to the first two weeks to help minimize bruising and swelling. Some mild pain is to be expected and can be treated with acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Other side effects are rare, but may include an allergic reaction to the sclerosing solution, intense itching at the site of the injection and skin discoloration. Patients can usually resume normal activities after two days. A follow-up visit with the doctor is often scheduled within a few days of the procedure. Improvements of 70 to 80 percent are realistic, with significant improvement noticeable after two to three weeks and optimal improvements within six months. [Back to top]

Is there any preparation required before sclerotherapy?

It is recommended that patients refrain from smoking and taking aspirin for a few days prior to their sclerotherapy procedures. Otherwise, no extensive preparation is required. [Back to top]

Can anyone undergo sclerotherapy?

Almost anyone can undergo sclerotherapy for their varicose veins or spider veins, with a few exceptions. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not undergo sclerotherapy. Likewise, people with a history of deep vein thrombosis, uncontrolled diabetes, skin infections, circulatory disorders, AIDS, hepatitis, syphilis or other diseases carried in the blood, or individuals undergoing anticoagulant (blood thinning) therapy or taking corticosteroids, are not candidates for sclerotherapy. [Back to top]

How is sclerotherapy performed?

Sclerotherapy uses a fine, thin needle to inject a chemical irritant, or sclerosing agent, into the affected varicose or spider veins. The sclerosing agent collapses the vein, causing it to form scar tissue and eventually disappear. [Back to top]