Home > Treatment Options > Surface Sclerotherapy

What is sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a treatment that involves the use of very fine injections to treat surface veins with a salt based solution that scleroses (i.e. seals off) unwanted veins. The body then naturally breaks these veins down in the same way it removes bruises. Blood circulation is restored through normal veins.

What are the advantages of sclerotherapy?

For many surface vein problems sclerotherapy may be the only effective method. Importantly, sclerotherapy is a walk in, walk out procedure that does not require hospitalisation, no anaesthetic, no cutting of the skin and with patients being able to resume normal activity and work immediately afterwards.

Is it painful?

No. Sclerotherapy is not painful because the needle used is very, very fine. All needles are single use and disposable.

Are there any side effects?

World wide clinical trials have found sclerotherapy to be a remarkably safe method of leg vein treatment. Surface bruising may occur which usually disappears quickly. Tender cords can occasionally develop after treatment of larger veins but these disappear over several weeks as the body breaks down these ‘sealed’ veins. Uncommonly after treatment the vein may develop a brownish colour (hyper pigmentation). This is similar to how an area of skin can go a brown colour after bruising. It mainly occurs with very large or thick patches of veins and individuals with darker skin, and usually resolves over several weeks although rarely it may be long lasting. Deep vein thrombosis is a very rare complication as are allergic reactions. Another possible rare complication is the development of a small skin ulcer. If this occurs it is mainly in the elderly, but is rare and typically heals very quickly. Whilst side effects are very rare, unknown or unpredictable problems can occur with any form of medical treatment.

How many treatments are necessary?

This will depend on the number of veins that are treated and the level of improvement sought. Minor surface veins respond very quickly and may only require one or two treatments. Larger areas may require several treatments.

What are the costs likely to be?

This will be discussed at the initial consultation. Medicare does provide a rebate for the treatment of large varicose veins, however small veins are regarded by Medicare as cosmetic and as such their treatment receives no rebate.

Who does the treatment?

All sclerotherapy treatment is performed by experienced medical practitioners who have been fully trained in the latest leg vein treatment methods. Doctors at our clinic have been successfully treating leg vein problems for over fifteen years.

Treatment during pregnancy?

Leg veins are best treated during pregnancy by compression stockings. Sclerotherapy and surgery are not recommended during pregnancy as they tend to be less effective and to avoid any possible concerns about foetal safety. Sclerotherapy is usually recommenced after weaning.

What happens after treatment?

Normal work and activity can be recommenced immediately. In fact walking is encouraged for 30 minutes after treatment, then 30 minutes daily to stimulate blood flow through your normal veins and prevent thrombus formation. Any small tape dressings can be removed after 2 hours. After 1 week, massage to the treated area is recommended. You may need to wear a compression bandage or stocking for several days especially if the larger veins have been treated. It is preferable to avoid vigorous exercise (e.g. aerobics, running) for 48 hours after the treatment to minimise bruising.

Demonstration of Surface Sclerotherapy