Are Vein Injections Safe?
Sclerotherapy involves vein injections, which may sound intimidating but are extremely safe. Learn everything you need to know about the procedure below.
Are you hesitant to treat your varicose veins because the thought of needles gives you pause? You can stop worrying! Sclerotherapy is one of the most commonly performed and safest treatments for spider and varicose veins.
Far from being a modern invention, sclerotherapy has been used for centuries to treat diseased veins. Today, the procedure is quick and painless, and you can overcome the discomfort and unsightly appearance of vein disease in no time.
What to expect during sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is an outpatient procedure that typically takes no more than an hour. Knowing what to expect before, during, and after the treatment can help you feel prepared and confident:
How do I prepare? Preparations are minimal. Before your appointment, you may be asked to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners or aspirin. Don’t shave your legs or slather on lotion.
What happens during the procedure? You will lie on a table with your legs slightly raised as the doctor injects a needle containing a safe, saline-based solution into the affected vein. The sclerosant scars the vein walls, forcing the vein to collapse shut. Blood diverts to healthy veins. The body eventually absorbs the treated vein.
Does it hurt? Because the needle is so thin, you don’t need any anesthesia. But you may feel a slight pinching from the needle as it goes into the vein. You may also experience minor cramping as the solution moves through the vein.
How many sessions will I need? The number of sessions depends on the veins that need to be treated. You may need more than one treatment if you have multiple diseased veins. However, you’ll have to wait about six weeks between treatments.
What happens after the procedure? You are free to go home after the minimally invasive procedure. But it’s recommended you have someone drive you home.
Any side-effects? Minor after-effects, such as bruising and skin discolorations, usually disappear in a few days. Over-the-counter pain medications can reduce any temporary discomfort.
Any risks? The risk of blood clots or an allergic reaction to the sclerosant is rare. If you notice any unusual symptoms, report them to your doctor.
Is sclerotherapy effective? The procedure is highly effective! One study found that sclerotherapy has a success rate of 80 to 90 percent. Treated veins rarely reappear, but new ones may pop up. That’s why it’s important to monitor your vein health.
When will I see the results? Smaller varicose veins and spider veins typically fade within three to six weeks. Larger veins may take longer to disappear completely.
Any restrictions during my recovery? You can return to your everyday activities immediately with minimal restrictions. To promote healing, you can wear compression stockings for about two weeks. While walking is encouraged, you should refrain from vigorous exercise for a few weeks. You should also avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as the UV rays can darken the skin around the treated area. You’ll have a follow-up appointment to check your progress within a month.
Meet with the vein treatment specialists
Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) offers sclerotherapy at each of its vein centers nationwide. In addition to sclerotherapy, we perform other effective vein treatments, such as thermal ablation, ambulatory phlebectomy, and more. Our staff of board-certified physicians has years of experience treating all stages of vein disease with the latest vein care innovations. Talk to a CVR physician about your options to eliminate varicose and spider veins.
Contact your nearest CVR location today to schedule a consultation or speak to a representative. You may also schedule online at your convenience.
