Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive medical procedure designed to treat spider veins and small varicose veins by injecting a specialized solution, known as a sclerosant, directly into the affected vein. This solution irritates the lining of the blood vessel, causing it to collapse and seal shut. The body then naturally absorbs the closed vein over time, redirecting blood flow through healthier vessels. People considering this treatment often want to understand the time commitment involved, from the duration of a single appointment to the final timeline for visible results.
Duration of a Single Sclerotherapy Session
A single sclerotherapy session is a relatively short, convenient in-office procedure. The total time spent undergoing the injection phase is typically between 15 and 60 minutes. This duration depends primarily on the number and overall size of the veins being addressed during that specific appointment. Before injections, the appointment includes time for consultation, skin cleaning, and sometimes mapping the veins. Patients are generally able to resume light daily activities immediately following the procedure.
Overall Treatment Course and Frequency
Sclerotherapy is rarely a single, one-time event for comprehensive vein clearance. Most individuals require a series of treatments to achieve their desired outcome, especially when dealing with numerous or larger veins. Sessions are intentionally spaced out, typically four to six weeks apart, to allow the body time to process the treated veins and ensure inflammation has subsided. This waiting period allows the practitioner to accurately assess which remaining veins require further attention. A full course of treatment could span several months, depending on the extent of the veins and the number of sessions required, which can range from two to five.
Timeline for Visible Results and Healing
The time it takes for the treated veins to disappear is a biological process that occurs after the procedure, not immediately following the injection. Initial signs of healing, such as mild redness, bruising, or darkening of the treated vessels, are common in the first few days and weeks. These temporary side effects are a normal part of the body’s response as it begins to absorb the collapsed vein tissue.
Results Based on Vein Size
The timeline for visible cosmetic improvement differs based on the size of the veins being treated. Smaller spider veins typically show significant fading and visible results relatively quickly, often within three to six weeks after treatment. Larger varicose veins require a longer period for the body to fully break down and reabsorb the vessel tissue. For these larger vessels, the final results may take three to four months, or sometimes even longer, to fully manifest.
The final, optimal result is usually seen three to six months after the last treatment session is completed. Bruising and any temporary brownish skin discoloration over the treated area usually fade within a few weeks to several months.
Longevity of Results and Maintenance
Results from a successful sclerotherapy treatment are considered permanent for the specific veins that were injected. Once the sclerosant causes the vein to collapse and the body absorbs it, that particular vessel is permanently closed and will not reappear. Sclerotherapy does not, however, prevent new spider or varicose veins from forming in the future; genetics, hormonal changes, and lifestyle factors like prolonged standing can contribute to the development of new veins over time. Because of this potential for new vein development, some patients schedule periodic follow-up or maintenance sessions every few years to address any emerging vessels. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular movement and wearing compression garments as advised, supports long-term vein health.