Sclerotherapy is a treatment to improve the appearance of spider veins. It can also improve the appearance of varicose veins. In this outpatient procedure, your care team will inject small amounts of a solution into the vein. They will make a series of injections. The solution irritates the inner lining of the vein. For most patients, this causes the vein to collapse and seal shut, stopping the vein’s blood flow. Eventually, the vein will fade or disappear. Several types of solution are available for sclerotherapy. Your care team will talk with you about which solution is the best fit for you.

Sclerotherapy can be mildly uncomfortable. You may also experience minor discomfort while recovering. However, any pain should go away as you heal. Treated veins will fade within a few weeks but full results may not be seen for months. You may need several sclerotherapy outpatient procedures.

Your care team will explain how you should prepare for the procedure, what to expect and what care you will need afterward. Learn more about the Northwestern Medicine Vein Center.

Meet the Vein Center Team