Spider veins and small varicose veins can appear as red, blue, or purple lines beneath the skin, most often on the legs. While these visible veins are frequently a cosmetic concern, they can sometimes cause aching, burning, itching, or discomfort after long periods of standing. Sclerotherapy uses a series of carefully placed injections to close selected veins so they gradually become less noticeable.
Sclerotherapy is available through our medical dermatology services at West Virginia Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center. Led by board-certified dermatologist Dr. David W. Judy, the practice serves South Charleston, Barboursville and Beckley, West Virginia. Our team evaluates the visible veins, your symptoms, and your medical history before determining whether this treatment is suitable for you.
What Is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is an in-office treatment for spider veins and certain small varicose veins. During the procedure, a medical solution known as a sclerosant is injected directly into the selected vein.
The solution irritates the inner lining of the blood vessel, causing the vein walls to close together. Blood naturally redirects through healthier nearby veins. Over time, the treated vessel is absorbed by the body and fades from view.
Spider veins are generally small, flat vessels that form thin lines or branching patterns. Varicose veins are usually larger, raised, or twisted. Sclerotherapy works best for veins that can be treated safely with injections. Larger or deeper veins may require a different type of evaluation or treatment.
What Happens During a Sclerotherapy Appointment?
Your visit begins with an examination of the treatment area. Your clinician will ask about symptoms, previous vein treatments, medications, health conditions, pregnancy history, and any past issues with blood clots.
You’ll typically lie down with the treatment area exposed. A fine needle is used to place the solution into each selected vein. Several injections may be needed during one appointment, depending on the number and size of the vessels.
You may feel a small needle prick, mild stinging, warmth, or cramping as the solution enters the vein. The full appointment length depends on the extent of the treatment area. Sclerotherapy is generally completed without general anesthesia, and you can usually leave the office afterward.
What Should You Expect After Treatment?
Walking is often encouraged shortly after sclerotherapy because normal movement supports circulation. Your clinician may recommend compression stockings or bandages for a set period after the injections.
Temporary effects may include:
Redness around the injection sites
Bruising or tenderness
Mild swelling
Itching or raised areas along a treated vein
Temporary darkening of the skin
Small visible vessels near the treatment area
Treated veins don’t disappear immediately. Smaller spider veins may fade over several weeks, while larger vessels can take longer. More than one session may be needed when several veins are present or when the vessels respond at different rates.
Sclerotherapy closes existing veins, but it can’t stop new spider or varicose veins from developing later.
Who May Be a Candidate for Sclerotherapy?
You may be considered for sclerotherapy when you have visible spider veins or small varicose veins that cause cosmetic concerns or mild discomfort. Your clinician will evaluate the size, location, and pattern of the veins before making a recommendation.
Sclerotherapy isn’t appropriate in every situation. Treatment may need to be postponed or avoided during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, after certain blood clots, or when an infection is present near the injection site.
Larger veins accompanied by persistent swelling, significant pain, skin discoloration, sores, or other symptoms may need further medical evaluation. Sclerotherapy shouldn’t replace an examination for possible underlying venous disease.
Why Choose West Virginia Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center for Sclerotherapy in South Charleston?
Visible veins should be examined before treatment rather than treated solely based on appearance. West Virginia Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center works within a medical dermatology setting led by Dr. Judy, who is board-certified in dermatology and Mohs micrographic surgery.
Our clinical team considers your skin, circulation-related symptoms, health history, and the characteristics of each vein before recommending care. This assessment helps distinguish small vessels that may respond to sclerotherapy from concerns that require another type of treatment or referral.
Learn More About Treating Visible Veins
An evaluation can help determine whether the veins you see are suitable for injection treatment. Call West Virginia Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center at (304) 925-7546 or contact us to discuss sclerotherapy in South Charleston, Barboursville or Beckley, WV.