Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is the answer to eliminate unsightly veins. It is a non-surgical procedure developed to eradicate unsightly, non-functional veins such as those on the legs. It is performed through tiny injections of a sterile solution (sclerosant) directly into the veins. The solution induces your body to absorb the veins.

Who is suitable for Sclerotherapy?

Someone with dilated and unsightly veins on their legs. Patients should consult the doctors at SW1 Clinic to see if you are suitable for sclerotherapy, or if you need other procedures such as lasers or surgery.

How does Sclerotherapy compare to Laser eradication of Veins?

Sclerotherapy works better for the larger veins that you typically see on the legs. Our Gentle Yag or Vbeam Perfecta or CoolView lasers are more suitable for smaller veins. During your consultation, our doctors will advise you as to which procedure is best for you and will tailor a treatment regime to suit your needs.

Is it painful?

There is some discomfort, but no more than a tiny pin prick, during the procedure, and this is easily bearable.

What can Sclerotherapy do for me?

Sclerotherapy will help you eliminate unwanted and unsightly spider and varicose veins non-surgically. It improves the appearance of the area treated. Significant results is seen after 1 treatment. You may require 2 to 3 treatments for optimal results, depending on the severity and size of the area affected.

Is Sclerotherapy safe?

Yes. Sclerotherapy was developed over 150 years ago and has undergone many clinical trials and studies establishing its safety. It is FDA and MOH (Singapore) approved and promises safe and dramatic results.

Any side effects?

There may be a rash (hives) occurring at the injected sites, but these go away within a day. The doctor may prescribe an anti-histamine to help it go away faster. Bruises may occur from the injections, but these go away within 5 days to a week.

Occasionally, transient pigmentation of the treated site (along the course of the vein) can occur due to the pigment from the blood in the veins. These usually go away within a few months. Treatments with lasers or creams can be done to make them go away faster. Rarely, infection can occur at the injection sites. This can be treated with antibiotics.

How many sessions do I need?

Sclerotherapy is performed once a month, usually done over 2 to 3 sessions depending on the severity of the veins. Post-treatment care will be advised by the doctor to ensure that the risk of recurrence is minimised.

Will the veins recur?

The treated veins typically do not recur after sclerotherapy, however it is possible for new veins to form. The doctor will give you a post-treatment protocol to follow to help prevent the formation of new varicose veins.

How do I prepare myself for Sclerotherapy?

Medications that increase bruising need to be stopped 1 week prior to procedure. This includes aspirin, NSAIDS, warfarin, Heparin, Vit E, ginseng, garlic supplements, gingko supplements.

Is there any special post-treatment care?

You will need to wear a compression stocking for 3 to 5 days after the procedure. This is to minimise recurrence and enhance the elimination of the veins.

You are also encouraged to sleep with the treated area elevated with one or two pillows. Also, avoid very hot showers, steam room and sauna for three days after the procedure.

You will be asked to return 1 month after the procedure for a review. During the review, the doctors may recommend a repeat procedure.