Sclerotherapy is a well-established treatment for spider veins and small varicose veins, particularly on the legs. A solution (sclerosant) is injected into each visible vein, irritating the vein lining so the vein collapses and closes. The body gradually absorbs and clears the treated vein over weeks to months.
Benefits
- Reduces the appearance of spider and small varicose veins
- Effective for visible veins on the legs
- Quick, office-based treatment with minimal downtime
- No surgery or incisions
- Results are lasting for treated veins (new veins can still appear over time with age and genetics)
Who it’s for
Adults bothered by spider or reticular veins on the legs, where the veins are suitable on assessment. People with varicose veins under 10 mm in diameter (as determined by examination, sometimes with ultrasound) may be candidates; large varicose veins often require a different approach. Not suitable during pregnancy, with a history of deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) or other blood-clotting problems for which this treatment would be unsuitable, or where veins are too large to respond well.
What to expect
After a thorough vein assessment, the sclerosant is injected into the target veins using a very fine needle. You may feel brief stinging or cramping. A session takes about 20–30 minutes; multiple veins can be treated in one visit. Compression stockings are worn after treatment, for about 10–14 days. Most people need 2–3 sessions, spaced about 4 weeks apart.
Recommended sessions
Most people need 2–3 sessions, spaced about 4 weeks apart.
Before & after your visit
- Before: Continue any prescribed medications unless told otherwise; avoid caffeine and nicotine (if possible) before the session. Wear loose clothing and bring your compression stockings.
- After: Wear compression stockings as directed; walk regularly; avoid prolonged standing. Avoid sun exposure for 2–4 weeks and avoid strenuous exercise for 48 hours.
- Downtime: Minimal — most people resume normal activity right away.
- Results: Gradual fading of treated veins over weeks to months.
- Duration: Treated veins do not return, but new veins can develop.
- Risks: Temporary bruising, redness, or brownish skin discolouration; rarely, small clots, ulcers, or recurrence. Serious complications are rare and are discussed at assessment.
Frequently asked questions
How many sessions will I need?
Most people need 2–3 sessions, 4 weeks apart, for best results.
Do I need an ultrasound scan?
Sometimes — it’s needed if you have large varicose veins, symptoms suggesting vein valve problems, or certain risk factors, to check which veins are safe to treat.
Which solution is used?
The sclerosant is selected based on the vein size and your history; the options include sodium tetradecyl sulfate (STS) and polidocanol — explained at assessment.
Can I drive after treatment?
Yes — you’re usually asked to go for a 20–30 minute walk and can drive home. Do check with your practitioner if you have varicose veins in the legs — brownish discolouration after treatment is expected to fade over time.
Will my veins come back?
Treated veins don’t return, but new veins can develop over time with age and genetics.
Price & booking
$199 per session.