What Is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure designed to eliminate unwanted spider veins and small varicose veins through precise, targeted injections. During treatment, a sclerosing solution is carefully administered directly into the affected vessels using an ultra-fine needle. This specialized solution works by irritating the vessel lining, causing it to swell and seal shut.
Once sealed, these treated vessels can no longer transport blood and are gradually absorbed by your body's natural healing processes. Blood flow naturally redirects to deeper, healthier veins, improving both the appearance and circulatory function of the treated area. The result is clearer, brighter skin and improved vascular health in the affected region.
Unlike laser treatments that target vessels from the outside, sclerotherapy works from within the vessel itself, making it particularly effective for veins of various sizes and depths. The procedure's precision allows for targeted treatment with minimal impact on surrounding tissues, resulting in clearer skin without unnecessary trauma to uninvolved areas.
The Benefits of Sclerotherapy
Patients who choose sclerotherapy at BelleSante experience numerous advantages beyond simple cosmetic improvement, including:
- Visibly improved appearance with fewer spider veins or small varicose veins
- Reduction in vascular-related discomfort
- Enhanced skin clarity and evenness
- Boosted confidence when wearing shorts, skirts and swimwear
- Relief from itching sometimes associated with vein issues
- Long-lasting results with proper post-treatment care
- Minimal downtime and the ability to return to most activities quickly
- Prevention of further vascular complications through early intervention
This elegant solution allows you to address both the cosmetic and functional concerns associated with visible veins. Many patients express delight at being able to confidently show their legs again without the self-consciousness that often accompanies vascular concerns.
Your Treatment Experience at BelleSante
Your sclerotherapy journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with Kristine Romine, MD, or Sara Romine, DNP, FNP-C. This essential first step allows us to evaluate your vascular concerns, discuss your aesthetic goals and tailor a treatment approach to your specific needs.
During the procedure, Dr. Romine or Sara Romine will methodically inject the sclerosing solution into each targeted vein using precise, expert techniques. The number of injections depends on the extent and number of blood vessels being treated, but a typical session addresses multiple veins in the targeted area. Treatment sessions typically take 30-45 minutes to complete, with results developing over several weeks as the treated blood vessels naturally fade from view.
Following the injections, compression stockings or bandages will be applied to the treated area to enhance results and promote proper healing. We'll provide detailed guidance on wearing these compression garments, which are essential for optimal treatment results. Because they’re easiest to wear under pants, fall and winter are ideal seasons to begin your treatment sessions.
Recovery & Results
After your sclerotherapy treatment at BelleSante, you'll be able to walk and resume most daily activities immediately. We recommend consistent walking to promote healthy circulation, though strenuous exercise should be avoided for a few days. The compression garments will need to be worn for approximately three days following treatment to optimize your results.
Initially, treated veins may appear more prominent or slightly discolored — this is completely normal and indicates the treatment targeted the unwanted vessels, and is working as intended. Over the following weeks, you'll notice a gradual fading of the treated vessels as your body naturally processes and eliminates them. Most patients see significant improvement within three to six weeks, with continued enhancement as healing progresses.
We typically recommend a series of 1-4 treatments, depending on your unique needs, thoughtfully spaced every four to six weeks apart, preferably during cooler pant weather, to achieve the refined, lasting results you deserve. For optimal clearance, your treatment can also be combined with our ClearV Vein Eraser laser to target any tiny blood vessels that remain after sclerotherapy.
