Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy for Leg Vein Removal
Eradicate unsightly, bulging varicose and spider veins without the need for invasive surgery. Sclerotherapy is a highly established, clinically proven medical procedure designed to permanently eliminate non-functional, dilated veins, particularly those located on the legs.
At SW1 Clinic, our medical doctors utilize highly precise microinjections to safely collapse targeted veins, restoring a flawless, even-toned appearance to your skin.
The Clinical Mechanics of Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy involves the precise injection of a sterile, medical-grade solution—known as a sclerosant, directly into the targeted, unsightly vein.
Once introduced, the sclerosant actively irritates the inner lining of the blood vessel. This causes the vein to collapse, seal shut, and form a microscopic scar. Because the vein is now closed, blood is naturally rerouted through healthier veins. Over the following weeks, your body’s natural metabolic system safely absorbs the collapsed vein, causing it to fade and disappear entirely.
What is the difference between Sclerotherapy and Laser Vein Removal?
While both are highly effective, they serve different clinical purposes:
- Sclerotherapy: The absolute treatment of choice for larger, deeper, and more pronounced veins typically found on the legs. It effectively collapses the underlying structure of these prominent vessels.
- Laser Vein Removal: Best suited for the very fine, superficial spider veins or tiny broken capillaries often found on the face and upper body.
For patients presenting with a complex network of both large varicose veins and fine superficial veins, our doctors often recommend a synergistic combination of both Sclerotherapy and Laser therapy for maximum clearance.
How is the treatment like at SW1 Clinic?
Sclerotherapy is a fast, highly tolerable procedure performed in-clinic by our doctors. Using ultra-fine micro-needles, the discomfort is minimal—often described as nothing more than a tiny pinprick.
While significant fading is typically visible after a single session, optimal eradication of the vein network usually requires 2 to 3 treatments, spaced approximately a month apart.
Post-Treatment Care for Optimal Results
To ensure the treated veins remain fully collapsed and do not recur, adherence to our post-care protocol is essential. Following your procedure, you will be required to wear medical-grade compression stockings for 3 to 5 days. We also advise patients to sleep with their legs elevated on pillows and avoid hot showers, saunas, and strenuous exercise for a few days to maximize the aesthetic outcome.
FAQS
What is Sclerotherapy and how does it remove veins?
Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical medical procedure used to treat varicose and spider veins. A doctor injects a specialized, sterile solution (a sclerosant) directly into the targeted vein. This solution irritates the vein’s lining, causing it to swell, stick together, and seal shut. The body then naturally absorbs the dead vein over a few weeks, causing it to fade from view.
Is Sclerotherapy better than laser treatment for leg veins?
It depends on the size of the vein. Sclerotherapy is generally considered the gold standard and is highly superior for treating larger, deeper, or bulging veins typically found on the legs. Laser treatments, on the other hand, are better suited for targeting microscopic, superficial spider veins and broken capillaries.
Is the Sclerotherapy injection painful?
Because our doctors use ultra-fine micro-needles, the discomfort is very minimal. Most patients describe the sensation as a tiny, fleeting pinprick or a mild cramping feeling as the solution enters the vein.
How long does it take for spider veins to disappear after Sclerotherapy?
Significant improvements are usually seen after a single treatment. However, the body needs time to naturally absorb the collapsed vein. You can expect the treated veins to fade gradually over 2 to 6 weeks. For optimal, total clearance, a course of 2 to 3 sessions spaced a month apart is generally recommended.
Are there any side effects or downtime after Sclerotherapy?
There is no significant downtime, and you can walk immediately after the procedure. You may experience minor side effects such as transient redness (hives) or mild bruising at the injection sites, which typically resolve within a few days. You will also be required to wear compression stockings for 3 to 5 days to ensure the veins remain closed.
Book a Consultation
Book a vein assessment at SW1 Clinic to find out whether Sclerotherapy, Laser Vein Removal or a combined plan is the best fit for your vein pattern.
