Sclerotherapy

Spider and varicose veins are more than just cosmetic concerns—they can also be uncomfortable and affect your self-confidence. At Dazzling Dermatology in Boca Raton, Florida, Board-certified dermatologist and Board-certified dermatopathologist Eric Rudnick MD, FAAD, and physician assistant Danielle Rudnick, PA-C, offer minimally invasive sclerotherapy to minimize the appearance of bulging veins. Call Dazzling Dermatology today to schedule an appointment.

What is sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy uses injectable medications to reduce the appearance of spider and varicose veins. By injecting a sclerosant into the targeted veins, this minimally invasive procedure irritates the lining of the blood vessels.

The lining inside the blood vessels becomes sticky and eventually fades into scar tissue, cutting off its blood supply. Over time, the bulging blood vessel collapses.

What does sclerotherapy treat?

The two most common conditions that sclerotherapy treats are:

Varicose veins

Varicose veins are bulging blood vessels that typically develop in the legs. These swollen veins appear twisted and raised. You can see varicose veins through the skin. 

While varicose veins are primarily a cosmetic concern, they can also cause throbbing, aching pain that make your legs feel heavy.

Spider veins

Spider veins are smaller and more common than varicose veins. They typically don’t cause any symptoms. 

They can appear on the legs, chest, and face. Most people seek cosmetic treatment for spider veins to reduce their appearance.

What can I expect from sclerotherapy?

Dr. Rudnick may ask you to stop taking certain medications before your procedure. Some antibiotics, steroids, and anti-inflammatory medications can affect your blood’s clotting abilities, so make sure to list every medication you’re taking before your appointment.

At your appointment, Dr. Rudnick cleans your treatment area and injects the sclerotherapy solution directly into your targeted blood vessels using very thin needles. The entire treatment takes about 15-30 minutes. 

Most patients need at least two treatments, spaced four weeks apart, to achieve the desired results. You’ll see a gradual reduction in appearance and relief for symptoms, such as aching, burning, swelling, and cramping.

Does sclerotherapy require downtime?

Sclerotherapy typically doesn’t require any downtime. Most patients can resume their normal activities almost immediately after treatment. You should wear compression stockings during the day for at least 3-7 days after treatment to protect your treatment area. 

Dr. Rudnick may also recommend avoiding standing, sitting, or walking for long periods of time during your recovery.

How long until I see my sclerotherapy results?

Spider veins typically start to subside within 3-6 weeks* of treatment. Because varicose veins are much larger, the treatment can take up to 3-4 months* to generate noticeable results. Most veins never return after sclerotherapy, but new ones can form. 

To learn more about sclerotherapy, call Dazzling Dermatology today to schedule an appointment. 

*Individual results may vary