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Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive medical procedure that's used to treat spider veins (also known as thread veins) and varicose veins. During the procedure, a solution is injected directly into the affected vein, causing it to collapse and eventually fade away. This type of treatment is considered safe and effective, and it can be done on an outpatient basis, which means you don't need to stay overnight.
At Circle Health Group, we offer private sclerotherapy treatment to help patients achieve smoother, clearer skin. Our experienced consultants will assess your individual needs and recommend the best course of action for you. If your varicose veins are particularly large, for example, we may recommend foam sclerotherapy.
If you're considering sclerotherapy treatment, we encourage you to book an initial consultation with one of our specialists. This will allow you to learn more about the treatment and to ask any questions that you may have. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest level of care, and we're committed to helping our patients achieve their goals. Contact us today to schedule your appointment. Call or book online and you'll often find a specialist available within 48 hours.
If you suffer from unsightly varicose veins or spider veins, sclerotherapy may be the treatment for you. Common symptoms that can be treated using sclerotherapy include:
- Visible, bulging veins
- Pain or discomfort in the affected area
- Aching, heaviness, or fatigue in your legs
- Swelling or inflammation in your legs
- Skin discolouration or texture changes around the affected veins
Sclerotherapy is most commonly used to treat varicose veins and spider veins (thread veins). It can also be used to treat venous malformations, which are veins that have developed abnormally and can cause serious pain and discomfort.
Varicose veins
These are large, bulging veins that can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort.
Spider veins
Also known as thread veins, these are smaller, web-like veins that appear on the surface of the skin, often on the legs or face.
When you come to Circle Health Group for sclerotherapy treatment, we want to make sure we have a comprehensive understanding of your symptoms and medical history to provide you with the best possible care. During your initial consultation, your specialist will ask you about your symptoms and medical history, as well as any medications or supplements you are currently taking.
Based on this information, your consultant may recommend further tests or scans to help make an accurate diagnosis. This will help us determine if sclerotherapy is the best treatment option for you.
Your initial consultation is an important step in your sclerotherapy journey, as it allows us to create a tailored treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. We take the time to listen to your concerns, answer any questions you may have, and ensure that you are comfortable with the treatment plan before moving forward.
The length of the procedure can vary depending on the size and number of veins being treated. Typically, a session lasts between 15-45 minutes.
Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that doesn't require general anaesthesia. Instead, a local anaesthetic is applied to the area being treated to minimise any discomfort. You will be awake the whole time, though you shouldn't feel pain.
How does sclerotherapy work?
During the procedure, a sclerosing agent is injected directly into the targeted vein using a fine needle. The agent irritates the vein lining, causing it to swell and stick together. Blood is then rerouted to healthier veins, and the treated vein eventually fades.
What is foam sclerotherapy?
Foam sclerotherapy is a variation of traditional sclerotherapy that involves injecting a foaming solution into the affected veins. This foam displaces the blood in the vein, allowing the sclerosing agent to come into direct contact with the vein walls. This technique is often used for larger veins.
Recovering from sclerotherapy
You will be able to leave shortly after the procedure and return to your daily activities, although strenuous exercise should be avoided for a few days. You may need to wear compression stockings for a short period to help with healing.
It's important to note that the exact details of the procedure will depend on your individual needs and the extent of the treatment required. Your doctor will be able to provide more detailed information during your consultation.
While sclerotherapy is considered very safe, as with any medical procedure there are some risks to be aware of. These can include:
- Allergic reaction to the sclerosant solution
- Inflammation at the injection site
- Bruising
- Skin discolouration (temporary or permanent)
- Rarely, infection
- Rarely, blood clots
It's important to note that these risks are relatively rare, and most patients experience few complications after sclerotherapy treatment - if any. Your consultant will explain these risks and potential complications to you during your initial consultation so that you can make an informed decision about whether sclerotherapy is the right treatment for you.
We answer some of your most commonly asked questions about sclerotherapy.
What to avoid after sclerotherapy?
After sclerotherapy, it's important to avoid strenuous exercise, hot baths, saunas, and direct sunlight exposure for a few days. You should also avoid wearing tight clothing or high heels.
How long after sclerotherapy do veins disappear?
It usually takes a few weeks to a month for the treated veins to disappear completely. However, larger veins may take several months to fully fade.
How long does sclerotherapy take to heal?
Most people can return to their normal activities immediately after sclerotherapy, but it may take a few days to recover fully. You may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort for a few days after the procedure.
Can I do sclerotherapy at home?
No, sclerotherapy is a medical procedure that should only be performed by a qualified doctor or medical professional in a clinical setting. Attempting to perform sclerotherapy at home is dangerous and may cause serious complications.
When you choose to go private with Circle Health Group, you can expect:
- Flexible appointment times and locations to fit your routine
- The freedom to choose which hospital and consultant suit your needs
- Personalised, consultant-led treatment plans tailored to your individual needs
- Comfortable and safe private facilities maintained by expert multidisciplinary teams
- Private ensuite rooms as standard and delicious healthy meals
- Affordable, fixed-price packages with aftercare included
- Flexible payment options to help you spread the cost of your care
If you would like to learn more about sclerotherapy, book your appointment online today or call a member of our team directly.
Content reviewed by Circle in-house team in May 2023. Next review due May 2026.
- Sclerotherapy for Varicose and Spider Veins, WebMD
- What is sclerotherapy?, Medical News Today
- Varicose Veins – Treatment, NHS
- Sclerotherapy for Varicose and Spider Veins, Healthline
- Sclerotherapy, Cleveland Clinic
- Sclerotherapy, UCSF Health
