What is sclerotherapy?
A sclerotherapy vein treatment is a less-invasive option for removing small interconnected spider veins. Sclerotherapy is highly effective in treating unwanted spider veins. It works by injecting Polidocanol, a sclerosing agent, into those problem veins. The procedure will cause the lining of the blood vessels to be irritated, which then causes them to collapse and stick together. Over time, the blood vessels fade and are no longer visible.
The benefit of a sclerotherapy treatment at Essentials is that we help reduce the appearance of spider veins with a series of just a few treatments. You’ll be able to say goodbye to those small spider veins and confidently show your legs!
We, unfortunately, do not treat varicose veins with sclerotherapy as it is not an effective treatment. If you have more prominent varicose veins, deeper veins, or veins in areas where sclerotherapy is not recommended, our specialists may recommend you see another practitioner for ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy, otherwise known as echosclerotherapy or vascular surgery.
Sclerotherapy is one of two treatment options that Essentials Medi Spa offers to address unwanted spider veins. Some spider veins are better suited for laser treatment using a vascular handpiece with specific settings for veins (i.e. veins of the face, ankles, and thin separated veins on the legs).
How long do the results last from sclerotherapy?
Typically 3-5 treatments are required and should be spaced four weeks apart. You will see visible results within 4-6 weeks of your first treatment for smaller veins or three months for slightly larger interconnected veins. Once we know a vein responds to the sclerotherapy treatment, that vein will not reappear, but new veins may appear. If this happens, you will require further treatment with injections, laser, or surgical intervention.
Essentials is a leading medi spa for sclerotherapy in Medicine Hat
Kara is a certified aesthetic nurse specialist (CANS) at Essentials Medi Spa that cares for our sclerotherapy clients. Kara worked in neonatal intensive care, which makes her a master at injecting tiny veins. Kara and Dr. Brooks received their sclerotherapy certification through Empire Medical in Phoenix. The results of Kara’s client treatments can be viewed on her social media feed.
Cost
First injection: $250
Larger treatment areas may have a higher injection fee, and the specialist will quote the price at the time of the initial consultation.
Polidocanol: $80+
Depending on the number of areas treated, the price increases as the amount of product increases. Most times, it is between $80-120.
Number of Treatments
Our skin care specialist will likely suggest 3-5 treatments spaced four weeks apart.
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Bring a pair of loose fitting shorts to your appointments.
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Avoid sun/tanning beds/sunless tanners for 2 weeks before your appointment- we need to be able to see the veins clearly!
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Do not shave your legs the morning of your appointment.
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Keep the area clean by using a fragrance-free body wash & water, and refrain from using lotions/perfumes. Use soft cloths and avoid the use of rough exfoliating items (gloves, dry brushes).
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Compression stockings may be recommended (depending on the location and amount of veins treated).
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Fill out consent form
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Our skin care specialist & registered nurse, Kara, will need a 30 minute consultation before this treatment to review your aesthetic goals. Dr. Brooks will review your medical history and physical exam to ensure sclerotherapy is the correct procedure for you.
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On the day of your first treatment, expect to spend 60 minutes in our medi spa. Kara, our registered injection nurse, will clean the injection site and use a vein light to map out your specific vein structure before performing the treatment. You may feel a slight sting, but the process is relatively painless. Because the veins are so small, treatment with sclerotherapy is highly effective, and you can generally expect to see results in less than six weeks.
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The veins will look worse before they look better. Discoloration will take weeks to months to fade depending on your body’s ability to reabsorb the iron in your treated vessels.
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Bruising
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Redness
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Swelling
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Tenderness
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You may take naproxen (Aleve) according to the recommended dosage to help with any discomfort.
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If you were asked to wear compression stockings, wear them for 48 hours.
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If you were asked to wear compression stockings, wear them continuously for 2 weeks (except when showering or sleeping).
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Avoid open water, public swimming pools, tanning beds, or hot tubs for 2 weeks.
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You can resume normal daily activities the day of your treatment.
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You can resume exercising or more intense activities 3 days after treatment (no weights with legs for 2 weeks).
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Schedule your next appointment in 4-6 weeks.
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The discoloration will take weeks to months to fade, depending on your body’s ability to reabsorb the iron in the treated vessels.
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What to expect from a sclerotherapy treatment
Please allow time for an excellent result to be achieved. At Essentials Medi Spa, we advise you to book your sclerotherapy appointment at least 2-3 months in advance of vacations, weddings, and other special occasions. Your veins will look worse before they look better! By allowing 2-3 months recovery, you allow time for any bruising or discoloration to dissipate and for the treated veins to fade completely.
What makes you a poor candidate for sclerotherapy treatment?
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Bulging, large, high-pressure veins
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Foot/Ankle venous insufficiency
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Allergy to Polidocanol
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Recent DVT (blood clot), on blood thinners (some examples: coumadin, warfarin, plavix)
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Poorly controlled diabetes
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Pregnant/breastfeeding
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Viral infections/diseases
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Major heart problems
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Skin irritations or psoriasis near the treated area (rashes, sunburn, etc.)
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Patients unable to complete the recommended series of treatments
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Unrealistic expectations
