There are many sources of varicose veins and spider veins, including weight gain, hormonal changes, pregnancy, trauma, and prolonged standing or sitting. Through sclerotherapy, you can improve the appearance of your legs by permanently removing the varicose and spider veins.
Sclerotherapy works by injecting a chemical called a sclerosant into the vein. Sclerosants work by creating a ripple effect: the chemical damages the inside layer of the vein, which in turn causes the vein to clot, and as the body absorbs the clot it removes the vein too. It works best for spider veins and small varicose veins less than 3mm in diameter. It will not work for more complex problems like venous insufficiency.
For one week after treatment, you will be asked to wear a compressive stocking to keep the vein collapsed. As many as 50% to 80% of injected veins disappear after treatment. Spider veins will respond within 3-6 weeks, and larger veins respond in 3-4 months. Once the vein responds, it will not reappear. You may need to return if new veins emerge.