Does Sclerotherapy work and what are the side effects?

Question

I'm 30 years old and plan to get sclerotherapy. Does it work and what are the side effects? How much does it cost?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Sclerotherapy is an effective treatment for spider and reticular veins.  Treatment efficacy, however, depends on technique and the proper diagnosis of your condition.  Sometimes spider veins may be an external sign of a deeper vein problem.

Dennis Gross, MD · Answer

Sclerotherapy is a liquid solution (generally a salt or saline-based product) that is directly injected into the vein. The solution causes the vessel to seal shut and blood flow is redirected to stronger, healthier veins. Results are immediate- some minor bruising is a common side-effect that usually subsides within a few days.

Michael M. Omidi, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question! Currently sclerotherapy is the treatment of choice when treating enlarged and bulging veins. It uses a sclerosing solution that causes the vein to shrink. Usually it takes only 1 to 2 sessions to achieve fading of the undesirable veins. Side effects may include temporary bruising, discoloration, inflammation, small skin sores and, in rare cases, blood clots.
An in-person exam with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to assess your needs and obtain expert medical advice. Best of luck!

John Landi, MD · Answer

Sclerotherapy is the gold standard for the treatment of spider and blue (reticular) veins and works well.  If you have a  lot of these veins, than it would be prudent to have a pretreatment venous reflux ultrasound to look for malfunctioning valves which could be contributing to the spiders and which may need to be treated before the sclerotherapy.  A vein specialist would be able to best advise you. The cost of sclerotherapy varies from doctor to doctor and may also depend on the amount of veins treated.

Brian E. Dubow, MD · Answer

The cost depends on the doctor and your location.  There are rarely any side effects, but make sure you go to someone who is experienced

Does Sclerotherapy work and what are the side effects?

Answers (10)

Answer: Definitely works.

Answer: Definitely works.

Answer: Cost depends on the doctor, rarely any side effects

Answer: Cost depends on the doctor, rarely any side effects

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Sclerotherapy

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Does Sclerotherapy work and what are the side effects?

Answers (10)

Answer: Definitely works.

Answer: Definitely works.

Answer: Cost depends on the doctor, rarely any side effects

Answer: Cost depends on the doctor, rarely any side effects

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Sclerotherapy

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.