Sclerotherapy can reduce the appearance of spider veins and reticular veins on all skin types and color. Sclerotherapy is performed by injecting the problem vein with a sclerosing agent that irritates the vein lining, causing it to constrict. Over time the vein fades as it is naturally reabsorbed by the body. This redirects blood flow to other, healthier, veins located deeper beneath the surface skin.
The procedure is most commonly performed for cosmetic reasons and is effective on all skin types and color. Patients should have an in-office consult prior to scheduling to determine if the veins in question are good treatment candidates for sclerotherapy.
The procedure itself takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes. Since the injection needle is so small, patients often feel little pain and do not need any anesthesia.