Spider Vein Injections (Sclerotherapy)

Sclerotherapy is a procedure that effectively treats the appearance of unsightly spider veins, commonly seen in the thighs and legs. Spider veins are networks of small red, blue or purple veins that appear on the surface of the skin. While spider veins rarely indicate a serious condition, they can be a cosmetic nuisance, particularly when they appear on visible areas like the legs or face.

Who is a candidate?

Sclerotherapy patients can be anywhere from 30-60 years of age, whom have very few other symptoms other than their red or blue threadlike spider veins. It is important to not dismiss spider veins as just a nuisance unless you’ve had them checked by a medical professional prior to your consultation at Lotus Cosmetic Surgery Centre + Medispa in Hamilton.

How are Sclerotherapy treatments performed?

Sclerotherapy is a procedure that decreases the appearance of small spider veins that are common in adults. The Sclerotherapy procedure is nearly-painless. The sclerosing agent irritates the walls of the vessel, causing it to collapse. The body then reabsorbs the vein and blood is re-routed to a healthy vein, restoring proper circulation in the area. The number of treatment sessions required will vary from patient to patient, and depend on the number of veins treated, the patient’s ability to heal, and the level of cosmetic perfection desired.

Regular daily activities can commence immediately after treatment.

What is the recovery period like?

Patients may resume their regular daily activities immediately following treatment, as there is very little to no downtime, however, it is recommended to have someone drive you home after the procedure. Our nurse will also advise you to wear compression stockings or bandages in order to maintain compression on the treated veins and to avoid strenuous exercise for two weeks following the treatment. It is also recommended that Sclerotherapy patients avoid sun exposure to the treated areas during this time as the inflammation caused by the injections, combined with sun exposure, may lead to dark spots on the skin.

There is a healing process, and the results are usually visible within 3 to 6 weeks. Often, the treated areas will appear to be worse before they look better.

What are the risks?

Sclerotherapy is a safe procedure, however in some cases, negative reactions to sclerotherapy include bruising, redness, and pain near the injected vein. About a third of people develop small branches of blood vessels surrounding the injected vein. These vessels usually disappear on their own.

How can I obtain more information?

It’s important to have realistic expectations and to be properly informed about expected results and potential side effects, with any procedure.

If you would like to book a cosmetic consultation with Dr. Hynes at our office in Hamilton, ON, please call us at (905) 645-5640 or book an appointment.

Lotus Cosmetic Surgery Centre + Medispa
Hamilton, Ontario
Rediscover, Enhance, Reshape!