What to Expect After Spider Vein Treatment: A Guide to Sclerotherapy Recovery

Spider veins are a common cosmetic concern, and sclerotherapy is one of the most effective treatments to eliminate them. If you're considering or have recently undergone sclerotherapy at the Vein Institute at The Cardiovascular Care Group, you might be wondering what to expect in the days and weeks ahead. Here’s a detailed look at the post-treatment experience, including healing time, side effects, and how many sessions you may need to achieve optimal results.

Immediate Aftercare: What Happens Right After Treatment?

Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting a specialized FDA approved solution into the spider veins, causing them to collapse and fade over time. The treatment itself is quick, and there is little to no downtime. However, following the proper aftercare is essential for the best results.

• Compression Stockings: You will be advised to wear compression stockings for 1-2 days after the procedure. These stockings help reduce swelling, improve circulation, and enhance the effectiveness of the treatment.
• Walking Encouraged: Light activity, such as walking, is recommended immediately after the procedure to promote healthy blood flow. However, avoid high-impact exercise or heavy lifting or any activity that induces heavy perspiration for one week.
• Avoid Sun Exposure: Sun exposure on treated areas should be minimized for at least one week post-treatment to prevent hyperpigmentation.

Common Side Effects & Healing Timeline

Sclerotherapy is a safe and effective treatment, but like any procedure, it comes with some expected side effects. Here’s what you might experience:

• Mild Bruising & Redness
  • It's common to see bruising, small red spots, or mild inflammation around the injection sites.
  • Bruising typically fades within 1-2 weeks, though it may take longer in some cases.
• Temporary Darkening of Treated Veins
  • Some veins may initially appear darker before they fully dissolve, which can last a few weeks.
  • This is part of the body's natural healing process as the veins are absorbed.
• Itching & Tenderness
  • A mild itching sensation or tenderness around the treated veins may occur but usually resolves within a few days.
• Matting (Tiny New Veins)
  • In some cases, fine red veins can appear near the treatment site. These typically resolve on their own but may require follow-up treatment.

How Soon Will I See Results?

Patience is key when it comes to spider vein treatment. While some veins will begin to fade within a few weeks, full results typically take 4-6 weeks after each session. Larger veins or stubborn areas may take up to three months to completely disappear.

Because not all veins respond to the first treatment, it’s important to plan for multiple sessions if needed.

How Many Sclerotherapy Sessions Will I Need?

Most patients require 2-4 treatment sessions, spaced 4-6 weeks apart, to achieve the best results. The exact number depends on:

• The number and size of spider veins being treated
• How your body responds to the injections
• Whether new spider veins form over time

Your vascular specialist will provide a customized treatment plan based on your specific needs.

Long-Term Care: How to Maintain Your Results

Once your spider veins are treated, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of developing new ones:
✔ Continue wearing compression stockings if recommended
✔ Stay active to support healthy circulation
✔ Avoid prolonged sitting or standing without movement
✔ Use sunscreen to protect your legs from UV damage
✔ Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your veins

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you’re considering sclerotherapy or have questions about post-treatment care, The Vein Institute at The Cardiovascular Care Group is here to help. Our vascular specialists provide expert, personalized vein care to ensure you achieve the best results with minimal discomfort.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the next step toward healthier, clearer legs!