Sclerotherapy

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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What do I need to know about sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a procedure used to treat spider veins and varicose veins. Varicose veins are usually in the legs and are enlarged and twisted. During sclerotherapy, a chemical solution is injected into the vein. This causes the vein to irritate and swell, then scar. The scarring forces the blood to travel through different, healthier veins. The varicose vein then fades.

How do I prepare for sclerotherapy?

• Your provider will tell you how to prepare. The procedure usually takes about one hour or less. You will be able to drive yourself home.
• Tell your provider about all the medicines you currently take. Your provider will tell you if you need to stop any medicine for the procedure, and when to stop. Your provider will tell you which medicines to take or not take on the day of surgery.
• Tell your provider about any allergies you have, including to medicines.
• Your provider will tell you if you need any tests before the procedure, and when to have them.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

What will happen during sclerotherapy?

• Your provider may use an ultrasound to clearly see the vein that needs treatment. An ultrasound uses sound waves to show pictures on a monitor. Your provider will use a small needle to slowly inject the solution into your vein. You may feel stinging or burning when the solution goes into your vein. You may feel cramping if the vein is larger, but these symptoms are temporary.
• When the needle is removed, a compression bandage or compression stocking is applied. This helps keep pressure on the area. This process is repeated for each vein to be treated.

What can I expect after sclerotherapy?

• You may need to walk around for 10 to 15 minutes right after the procedure. This helps keep blood flowing and prevents clots. You may need to wear compression stockings for 24 to 48 hours straight. Then, wear them during the day only for 7 to 14 days, removing them at night.
• Redness at the injection site should fade within a few days. Small veins should fade within about 6 weeks. Larger veins may take up to 4 months. You may feel a dull ache or pressure for up to 3 days after the procedure. You should have minimal or no bleeding.

What are the risks of sclerotherapy?

• You may have redness, swelling, bruising, or itching. You may develop sores or tiny red veins at the injection site. You may see increased hair growth in the area. You may develop skin discoloration such as brown lines or spots. The varicose or spider veins may not go away completely. The chemical solution may damage the surrounding tissue and cause a serious wound.
• You may have an allergic reaction to the chemical solution. Tiny air bubbles might collect in your blood. This can cause headaches, fainting, nausea, or flashes in your eyes. A blood clot may form in a treated vein. If the blood clot moves to a deeper vein in your leg, or to your lungs, it can be life threatening. If the blood clot travels to your brain, it can cause a stroke.

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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