How To Treat Unsightly Veins with Sclerotherapy

Do you have unsightly veins that are causing discomfort? 

Sclerotherapy is a popular procedure to treat a variety of vein problems like spider veins and varicose veins. Most cases of spider veins and varicose veins are harmless and require no treatment, however, if they cause discomfort, consider a treatment option like sclerotherapy. It involves a simple injection of a liquid or foam agent that collapses superficial veins that are unwanted or painful and improves the physical appearance of the skin surface.

Vein problems that are often remedied by sclerotherapy include:

Spider Veins

Spider veins are small red or blue veins that can be seen on the surface of your skin. Although they do not cause harm, many people believe them to be unsightly and uncomfortable. They can occur anywhere on the body but are most often found in the legs. It is a common condition that affects an estimated 30-50% of the U.S. population.

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veins that can occur anywhere on the body, but are also commonly found in the legs. Standing or sitting for long periods of time may cause blood to flow backwards and pool in the veins. Other causes can be pregnancy, obesity, age and family history. Varicose veins affect an estimated 25% of adults in the U.S.

How Sclerotherapy Works

During this procedure, a thorough exam of your veins will take place. The practitioner will clean the surface of your skin over the veins with an alcohol swab. A small needle will be used to inject the liquid or foam agent directly into the veins. This will feel like a modest prick. Bandages are placed after the injections are complete. Compression stockings are placed over the bandages. You will remain lying with your head elevated for 15 minutes after the procedure. The treated veins will fade within a few weeks, although it may take a couple of months to see the result. Depending on the number and size of veins treated, you may need multiple visits to achieve your desired results.

Is Sclerotherapy Right for Me? 

Sclerotherapy is a viable treatment option for most people with unsightly veins. It is most commonly performed on women between the ages of 30 and 60.

Those who have recently had surgery, have been diagnosed with cancer or are pregnant or breastfeeding are not good candidates for sclerotherapy.

The Bronson Vein Clinic is Here to Help

When you choose Bronson for evaluation of your vein problem, you get a team specifically trained in the diagnosis and treatment of vascular diseases. Whether your vein problem is medical or cosmetic, you’ll receive comprehensive vascular care. Our service includes thorough testing and evaluation to identify the type of treatment that is right for you.

  • Free In-Person Information Session

This 30-minute information session is led by one of our vein specialists who will walk you through the types of vein conditions, symptoms and treatment options. Schedule now.

    Need more information? Give us a call at (269) 341-7333 or visit bronsonhealth.com/veins.


    The Bronson Heart & Vascular team is committed to heart and vascular disease prevention and sharing easy steps you can take to live a healthier life. Looking for a Bronson doctor to help you? For a complete list of providers at Bronson, visit bronsonhealth.com/find-a-doctor or call Bronson HealthAnswers at (269) 341-7723.

    Image of woman with spider veins.