Cosmetic Sclerotherapy

What Is Cosmetic Sclerotherapy?

Cosmetic sclerotherapy is a non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment method for the elimination of reticular and spider veins. In this procedure, a sclerosant, usually polidocanol (Asclera™), is injected into the abnormal veins to instantly close them down.

Eventually, the vein gets absorbed back into the body and disappears. Cosmetic sclerotherapy is performed in individual sessions by our nurse sclerotherapist. Most patients undergo one to three treatment sessions, although those with severe vascular disease occasionally need more.

This procedure is done in our office and usually undertaken when more prominent veins and underlying venous insufficiency have already been addressed. Because it is considered cosmetic, in contrast to ultrasound guided sclerotherapy, this form of sclerotherapy is usually not covered by your insurance. Please ask our office staff about any available discounts.

What to Expect Before Your Cosmetic Sclerotherapy Procedure

The experienced providers at Virginia Vein Care will always conduct a relevant medical and venous history prior to any procedures. We will perform a venous ultrasound exam and provide guidance on any underlying venous insufficiency.

We will provide our recommendations for getting rid of your vein problems without surgery. We also offer detailed vein consultations for new patients.

What to Expect During Treatment

Virginia Vein Care performs cosmetic sclerotherapy in our state-of-the-art clinics. You can expect the session to last around 30 minutes. During the procedure, our sclerotherapy nurse injects a sclerosing agent into your veins with a very tiny needle. As mentioned above, this agent causes the veins to close and in time be reabsorbed into your body. Healthy veins will take over for the formerly defective veins, improving circulation and relieving your legs of that tired, heavy feeling.

Some patients report mild discomfort, but you can generally expect a pain-free treatment.

After your session, you will be asked to wear compression stockings for up to three days, depending on the nature of the veins that were treated. Usually, there is no downtime after this procedure, and you can return to your regular activities right after it’s performed. 

You should see results in a few weeks; some veins take longer to fade and may take up to a few months. Symptom relief is usually quick, often right after the treatment is finished.

Side Effects

You might experience slight bruising from the procedure. Any discomfort or bruising usually goes away over a few days. Women who are pregnant are not candidates for sclerotherapy, and patients who are breastfeeding will usually decide to defer treatment.

“Is Cosmetic Sclerotherapy Right for Me?”

At Virginia Vein Care, we diagnose and treat a range of problems associated with venous insufficiency. As specialists, we can help determine if cosmetic sclerotherapy should be part of your treatment plan.

Virginia Vein Care: Accredited & Experienced

If you have legs that ache, swell, burn or cramp during the night, speak to the vascular experts at Virginia Vein Care at any of our offices in McLean, Virginia; or Purcellville, Virginia;

At Virginia Vein Care, we’re experts in treating varicose veins and spider veins. Our clinics are led by Dr. Lawrence J. Markovitz, a Board-certified Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeon with over 30 years of clinical experience. Take a look at our before and after photos to see the difference we can make in the look of your legs.

We invite you to contact us today to schedule an appointment for your vein problems. With offices located in the Northern Virginia or D.C. area, you can easily find a location close to home.