Sclerotherapy: Relief from Varicose Veins and Spider Veins

Varicose veins and spider veins are frustrating, and often uncomfortable, for both women and men. Not only do they take a toll on one’s confidence, but they can also cause pain and discomfort, which drags down overall quality of life. We understand how these visible veins can impact well-being and are committed to helping our patients find relief through treatments like sclerotherapy.



Sclerotherapy is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive injectable treatment to eliminate the appearance and symptoms of varicose and spider veins. Our patients experience reduced pain and swelling, while also enjoying the restoration of smoother, healthier-looking legs.

What Is Sclerotherapy and How Does It Work?

Sclerotherapy is a well-established medical procedure designed to treat varicose veins and spider veins. Varicose veins are larger, bulging veins that often cause discomfort, swelling, or aching. Spider veins are smaller, web-like veins that are primarily a cosmetic concern but can sometimes cause burning or itching. During sclerotherapy, a sclerosing solution is injected directly into the affected veins using a fine needle. This solution irritates the lining of the vein, causing it to collapse and eventually be reabsorbed by the body. The treated vein fades over the next few weeks, and blood is naturally rerouted to healthier veins.

At Stem Cells Philadelphia, we take a highly personalized approach to sclerotherapy. Candidates for this treatment meet with our skilled Nurse Practitioner, who carefully assesses the veins, discusses symptoms, and determines if sclerotherapy is likely to be effective.

Is Sclerotherapy Right for Me?

If you have been wondering whether sclerotherapy can help with your varicose or spider veins, the answer often depends on your specific symptoms and goals. Sclerotherapy is an excellent option for individuals who experience:

• Visible spider veins on the legs or other areas of the body
• Bulging varicose veins that cause discomfort, heaviness, or swelling
• Itching, burning, or aching around the affected veins
• Self-consciousness about the appearance of their legs

Not everyone is a good candidate for sclerotherapy. For example, pregnant women and individuals with active blood clots should not receive treatment. This is why a thorough consultation is important. During this appointment, we review your medical history and perform diagnostic imaging to determine whether sclerotherapy is appropriate. While it can be frustrating to hear that the treatment you believed would solve your condition is not right for you, patient safety and effective care are our priorities.

We understand that dealing with varicose or spider veins can be an emotional journey as well as a physical one, so even if sclerotherapy is not the right approach, we are committed to helping our patients find the best path to relief.

What Can I Expect During a Sclerotherapy Session?

One of the reasons sclerotherapy is so popular among our patients is that it is a quick, minimally invasive procedure with little to no downtime. Here is what you can expect during your sclerotherapy session at our Villanova office:

1. Preparation: you will begin by meeting with our Nurse Practitioner to review the treatment plan. We will make sure you are comfortable, then clean the area to be treated. No anesthesia is required, as the procedure is generally well-tolerated.
2. The Injection Process: Using a very fine needle, our skilled NP will inject the sclerosing solution into the targeted veins. Most people feel a slight pinch or mild burning sensation during the injections but usually describe the discomfort as minimal. The number of injections depends on the number of veins to be addressed, but a typical session lasts 30 to 60 minutes.
3. Post-Treatment Care: After the injections, we may apply compression bandages or recommend wearing compression stockings to support the treated veins and encourage healing. You will be able to walk around immediately after the procedure, and we encourage you to keep up with light movement to promote circulation.

Because we prioritize personalized care, patients have direct access to our dedicated staff throughout the process. Please text or call us with any questions, concerns, or symptoms you want to discuss so that we can best support your treatment and recovery.

How Long Does It Take to See Results from Sclerotherapy?

One of the most common questions we hear is, “How soon will my veins disappear after sclerotherapy?” While every patient’s experience is unique, most people begin to notice improvements within a few weeks. The full results typically become visible after 6 weeks, as the treated veins gradually fade and your body reabsorbs them.

Smaller spider veins often disappear more quickly, sometimes within 3 to 4 weeks, while larger varicose veins may take the full 6 weeks to resolve completely. In some cases, multiple sessions may be needed to achieve optimal results, especially if you have extensive veins or if they are particularly stubborn. During your follow-up appointments, we will assess your progress and determine if additional treatments are necessary.

What Is Recovery Like After Sclerotherapy?

Recovery after sclerotherapy is fairly simple, and you can return to all of your normal activities right away. There are a few guidelines we recommend to help you get the most out of your treatment:

• Wear Compression Stockings: For the first 1 to 2 weeks after treatment, wearing compression stockings can help support the treated veins and reduce swelling.
• Avoid Strenuous Activity: While light walking is encouraged, we recommend avoiding high-impact exercise, heavy lifting, or prolonged standing for about a week.
• Stay Out of the Sun: Direct sun exposure can cause hyperpigmentation in the treated areas, so it is best to avoid tanning or constant sun exposure for a few weeks. Plan your treatment for spring if you want to be ready for shorts and swimsuits by summer!
• Follow Up with Us: We will schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress and see how you are healing. If you have any concerns or notice unusual symptoms, we are just a phone call or text away.

You might notice mild bruising, redness, or swelling at the injection sites, but these typically resolve within a few days to a week. Every so often, a patient notices small areas of discoloration or tiny blood vessels forming near the treated area. These are usually temporary, but we can check them out and apply an additional treatment if needed.

If varicose or spider veins have been holding you back, sclerotherapy could be an effective solution. At Stem Cells Philadelphia, our knowledgeable and compassionate clinicians want to help you reclaim your confidence and comfort with a treatment plan designed just for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation in our Villanova office. We look forward to meeting you and discussing how sclerotherapy can improve your quality of life.