Sclerotherapy

What is Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a very minimally invasive procedure used to eliminate the appearance of spider veins and small varicose veins. A small needle is used to inject a solution just under the skin and into the blood vessel. This medication irritates the wall of the blood vessel, causing it to collapse and scar shut, and overtime fade from view. This does not harm the surrounding tissues or the circulation. In fact, it improves circulation by eliminating the abnormal, unnecessary vessel. Fading of the varicose veins and spider veins is a gradual process that takes 1 to 6 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

The number of sclerotherapy treatments needed to clear or improve a condition differs from patient to patient, depending on the extent of varicose veins or spider veins present. The average is 3 to 4 sclerotherapy sessions with an appointment every four weeks.

The spider veins and varicose veins disappear over a period of 2 weeks to 6 months.

Sclerotherapy can be very affective at eliminating spider veins and varicose veins as long as any major underlying chronic venous insufficiency is treated. This is one reason that it is important for the provider to perform a full evaluation on the patient prior to performing sclerotherapy. Spider veins and varicose veins don’t return in the same location that they are treated. However, there is always the possibility that they may return in a different location that wasn’t treated. Results are not guaranteed but the majority of people that undergo sclerotherapy do see improvement.

Many insurance providers may help cover the initial consultation and, if needed, venous ultrasound testing prior to the start of sclerotherapy. There are less insurance providers that cover the sclerotherapy treatment appointments themselves as they may be considered cosmetic. Please contact our office for questions regarding insurance and our current out-of-pocket sclerotherapy pricing. You may also contact your insurance company directly to see what your plan covers.

Sclerotherapy usually requires little, if any, recovery time. After the procedure, you will notice a reduction in your spider veins and varicose veins in a few weeks.
Sclerotherapy is usually painless. You may experience temporary skin discoloration, skin reddening and bruising.

  • Immediately after treatment, you will be required to put on your compression stockings. You may bring your own, or we also have compression socks available for purchase.
  • You may need to wear compression stockings to help keep the treated veins closed and reduce bruising. Wear your compression stockings during the day for 5 days.
    • You should avoid direct sunlight during the first few weeks following your treatment.
    • Avoid heat on your legs, such as hot baths, saunas and hot compresses for 1 week. Heat causes blood vessels to dilate.
    • Avoid lotions or scented soaps on your legs for one week.
    • No scrubbing legs
    • Walking is encouraged.
    • Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for the first week.
    • For discomfort take Tylenol. Ibuprofen may increase risk of bleeding.
    • Come back in 1 month for another treatment if recommended.

Visit One of our Vein Centers

Sclerotherapy in Tampa, Wesley Chapel and Lakeland

Wesley Chapel Office

2477 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Wesley Chapel, FL 33544

Seth T. Purcell, MD, RPVI

Vascular Surgeon

Michele Gordon, PA-C

Michele Gordon, PA-C

Director of Advanced Practice Providers

North Lakeland Office

1470 N. Florida Ave., Lakeland, FL 33805

Seth T. Purcell, MD, RPVI

Vascular Surgeon

Citrus Park Office

6646 Gunn Hwy, Tampa, FL 33612

Mextli Lormont-Ortiz, PA-C

Physician Assistant

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