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Sclerotherapy

What Is Sclerotherapy?

Micro-Foam Sclerotherapy: A Minimally Invasive Solution for Varicose and Spider Veins

Sclerotherapy is a widely trusted and minimally invasive treatment used to address spider veins and smaller varicose veins. It involves injecting a medical solution—commonly a foam like Asclera—directly into the targeted vein. This causes the vein walls to seal shut, redirecting blood flow to nearby, healthier veins. Over time, the treated vein collapses and is naturally absorbed by the body, eventually fading from view.

 

One of the main benefits of sclerotherapy is its efficiency—multiple veins can often be treated in a single session, making it convenient for patients with widespread vein concerns. The treatment is generally well-tolerated, with most patients reporting little to no discomfort. Temporary side effects, such as mild swelling or bruising, may occur but typically subside within a few days.

 

Thanks to its high success rate, sclerotherapy offers both cosmetic and symptomatic relief, helping to reduce discomfort and improve the appearance of affected veins. It’s often the first-line treatment recommended for patients dealing with spider or small varicose veins.

 

At Cellara Pain Institute in Madison, NJ, we offer expert sclerotherapy treatments tailored to your needs.

Call 973-377-6700 today to schedule your consultation and begin your path to healthier, clearer legs.

There are three primary methods for treating spider veins and varicose veins using sclerotherapy:

Injection sclerotherapy

This technique involves carefully injecting a medication—usually polidocanol—into spider veins, causing them to shrink and fade over time. The procedure is generally well-tolerated with minimal discomfort and rare side effects. After wearing compression stockings for a few days, most patients see noticeable improvement and can quickly return to normal activities.

Laser sclerotherapy

This technique involves carefully injecting a medication—usually polidocanol—into spider veins, causing them to shrink and fade over time. The procedure is generally well-tolerated with minimal discomfort and rare side effects. After wearing compression stockings for a few days, most patients see noticeable improvement and can quickly return to normal activities.

Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy

This technique involves carefully injecting a medication—usually polidocanol—into spider veins, causing them to shrink and fade over time. The procedure is generally well-tolerated with minimal discomfort and rare side effects. After wearing compression stockings for a few days, most patients see noticeable improvement and can quickly return to normal activities.

Your questions answered

Frequently Asked Questions:

Ideal Candidates for Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is ideal for those seeking cosmetic improvement of spider and varicose veins, as well as relief from symptoms like cramps, swelling, burning, and aching. A consultation at Cellara Pain Institute will help determine if you’re a good fit for the procedure.

You’ll lie back with your legs slightly elevated. After cleaning the skin, a fine needle is used to inject a solution into the targeted vein, causing it to seal and reroute blood to healthier veins.

Most patients feel little to no pain. Some may experience mild stinging or cramping, especially if the solution enters surrounding tissue—this is normal and short-lived.

Veins typically fade within a few weeks, though it may take up to six weeks or more. A 50–75% improvement is common per session, with most patients needing 2–4 treatments.

Advanced image-guided sclerotherapy greatly improves long-term outcomes. Recurrence can happen if underlying issues aren’t properly addressed with ultrasound guidance.

You can return to work the same day. Compression stockings are recommended for 3 days. A follow-up in 1–2 weeks helps manage any clots and assess progress. Ultrasound may be used to ensure proper healing.

Mild bruising, redness, or skin discoloration can occur at the injection site, usually resolving in days to weeks.

At Cellara Pain Institute in Madison, NJ, our board-certified, Harvard-trained vein specialists provide expert care with personalized treatment plans and clear communication every step of the way. Call 973-377-6700 to schedule your consultation today.