Sclerotherapy Vein Treatment
Spider and small varicose veins got you down? Try Sclerotherapy!
Sclerotherapy is a procedure used to diminish spider and small varicose veins of the lower extremities. The treatment consists of multiple injections of a sterile solution directly into the vein. The solution irritates the lining of the blood vessel, causing it to become inflamed, harden, and eventually, over time, the vessel turns into scar tissue that fades away completely.
The number of sessions depends on the depth, number, and size of the veins being treated. While some patients are happy with the results after just one treatment, others may desire further injections for the optimal result. Follow-up treatments should be spaced at least four weeks apart so that the effects of the previous treatment can be accurately evaluated before injecting more.
What is Sclerotherapy? 
- Spider Veins
- Small Varicose Veins
What to Do Before the Procedure
Medications: Before the sclerotherapy procedure, certain medications should be avoided. Please follow these guidelines:
• Tetracycline or Minocin, both antibiotics, may possibly cause staining of the skin if taken 7 to 10 days before or after sclerotherapy. Ask your doctor about other antibiotic medications you may take, or ask for safe guidelines for discontinuing these medications. If you are required to take an antibiotic before any invasive procedure, such as dental procedures, colonoscopy, or surgery, please inform your physician.
• Do not take aspirin, ibuprofen (i.e. Advil® and Nuprin®), or other anti-inflammatory medications for 48 hours before and after sclerotherapy, because these medications may interfere with the action of the sclerosing agent or increase bleeding. Tylenol® is permitted. Ask your doctor for specific guidelines before discontinuing any medication.
• Prednisone makes the sclerosing agent less effective. Ask the doctor who prescribed your prednisone if it can be safely discontinued for 48 hours before the sclerotherapy procedure.
Other guidelines before the procedure:
• No lotion should be applied to the legs before or after sclerotherapy.
• We recommend that you bring a pair of shorts to wear during the procedure.
• If you have compression hosiery or leggings, please bring them with you so we can make sure they will provide adequate support after the procedure.
After the Procedure
For 48 hours after the procedure, please follow these guidelines:
• Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and other anti-inflammatory medications. Tylenol® may be used if needed for pain relief.
• Do not take hot baths or sit in a whirlpool or sauna. You may take showers, but the water should be cooler than usual.
• Wash the injection sites with mild soap and lukewarm water.
• Do not apply hot compresses or any form of heat to the injected areas.
• Avoid direct exposure to sunlight (including sun tanning and tanning beds).
Sarah Skillett, RN, BSN is the only practitioner in the Midwest to offer InstaTox™ which Instantly Tightens, Smooths, and Lifts. This procedure utilizes Botox® or Dysport® for amazing results in tightening and lifting eyelids, under eyes, brows, neck, and other areas.
– Sarah Skillett