Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to treat varicose and spider veins, which are often visible through the skin. This treatment involves injecting a solution directly into the affected vein, causing it to scar and close off. The primary goal of sclerotherapy is to diminish the appearance of these noticeable veins and alleviate any associated symptoms, such as aching or swelling.
Understanding the Timeline for Results
The visible results from sclerotherapy are not immediate, as the body requires time to process the treated vein. Initially, the treated veins might appear worse due to bruising, swelling, or discoloration before they begin to fade. For smaller spider veins, less than 1 millimeter, fading becomes noticeable within three to six weeks following the procedure.
Larger varicose veins, 3 to 10 millimeters, require a longer resolution period. These veins may take approximately three to four months to fully resolve and disappear. Multiple treatment sessions are often necessary, especially for extensive veins, with each session having its own healing timeline.
Factors Influencing Treatment Efficacy and Duration
Several factors influence how quickly and effectively sclerotherapy works. The size and type of the vein play a significant role, as larger, more complex varicose veins require more time and sessions compared to smaller spider veins. The number of treatment sessions needed extends the total timeline.
An individual’s biological response to the sclerosant solution and their healing capabilities affect the rate at which treated veins fade. Adherence to post-treatment instructions, such as wearing compression garments and maintaining appropriate activity levels, is important for optimizing outcomes. Neglecting these aftercare steps can prolong the healing process.
Post-Treatment Care and What to Expect
Following sclerotherapy, post-treatment care supports the healing process. Compression therapy is a standard recommendation, involving the wearing of compression stockings or bandages for several days to weeks. This helps keep the treated vein collapsed and encourages blood flow through healthy vessels.
Light walking is encouraged immediately after the procedure to promote circulation and prevent blood clots. Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and prolonged standing or sitting should be avoided for a few days to a week. Patients experience temporary side effects such as bruising, swelling, and tenderness along the treated vein pathway. Skin discoloration, or hyperpigmentation, may also occur; these effects subside over weeks or months as the body reabsorbs the treated vein.
When to Expect Full Resolution and Follow-Up
Full resolution after sclerotherapy means the treated veins have significantly faded or completely disappeared. This process can take several months, with most noticeable improvements occurring gradually. Scheduled follow-up appointments with the specialist are part of the treatment journey.
During these follow-up visits, the specialist assesses previous session results and determines if additional treatments are necessary. While sclerotherapy effectively eliminates existing veins, it does not prevent new veins from forming, which might require subsequent treatments. Once a vein is successfully treated and closed, it does not reappear, offering a lasting solution.