Sclerotherapy
Say goodbye to spider and varicose veins — a safe, effective solution with zero surgery and virtually no downtime.
What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure designed to treat varicose veins and spider veins — leaving your legs looking smoother, clearer, and more confident. If you have been bothered by the appearance of visible veins on your legs or elsewhere on the body, sclerotherapy offers a safe, effective, and virtually pain-free solution without the need for surgery or anesthesia.
During the procedure, a specialized solution called a sclerosant is injected directly into the affected veins, causing them to collapse and seal shut. Over the following weeks, the treated veins are naturally absorbed by the body and gradually fade from view. At PlumpItUpp, we perform sclerotherapy with precision and care, helping clients feel confident and comfortable in their own skin — at every age.
How Does It Work?
Sclerotherapy works by introducing a sclerosant solution directly into the targeted vein through a very fine needle. Once injected, the solution irritates the inner lining of the vein wall, causing it to swell, stick together, and seal closed. With the vein no longer able to carry blood, it collapses and is gradually broken down and reabsorbed by the body over the following weeks — causing it to fade and eventually disappear from the surface of the skin.
The procedure itself typically takes anywhere from 15 to 60 minutes depending on the number and size of veins being treated, and is performed right in our comfortable PlumpItUpp clinic with no anesthesia required. Most clients find the treatment very manageable and are able to walk out of the clinic and return to their normal daily activities the very same day.
Treatment Areas
Sclerotherapy is primarily used to treat veins on the legs, including superficial varicose veins, reticular veins, and telangiectasia — more commonly known as spider veins. It can also be used to address visible veins on the face and chest. Whether you are dealing with a small cluster of fine spider veins or more prominent varicose veins, your provider will assess your concerns during your consultation and develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs.
Candidacy, Safety & Side Effects
Sclerotherapy is an excellent option for clients bothered by the appearance of varicose or spider veins, or experiencing associated symptoms such as aching, heaviness, or swelling in the legs. You may be an ideal candidate if you have visible veins on the legs, face, or chest that affect your confidence or comfort, are in good overall health, and are not currently pregnant. Clients with certain vascular conditions or blood clotting disorders may not be suitable candidates and will be assessed accordingly.
As a well-established procedure with a strong safety profile, sclerotherapy is considered low-risk when performed by a qualified provider. Potential side effects are mild and temporary, and may include itching, bruising, or swelling at the injection sites, a temporary hardening along the treated vein, or small brownish spots on the skin overlying the treated area — all of which typically fade over time. More serious complications are uncommon and will be discussed during your consultation.
A thorough consultation with our experts is required prior to treatment to assess your veins, discuss your goals, and confirm the best approach for your individual needs.
Results, Longevity & Maintenance
Treated veins typically begin to fade within a few weeks following sclerotherapy, though it may take a month or more to appreciate the full results as the body continues to naturally absorb the collapsed veins. Most clients see significant improvement after just one session, though 1–3 sessions are often recommended depending on the number, size, and complexity of the veins being treated.
It is important to note that while treated veins generally do not reappear, new veins may develop over time as a natural part of the aging process. Periodic maintenance treatments can be performed as needed to address any new veins that emerge. Your provider will work with you to develop a long-term plan that keeps your legs looking and feeling their best.
Prep & Appointment Expectations
Preparing properly for your sclerotherapy session will help ensure the best possible results and a smooth, comfortable experience. Avoid blood-thinning medications such as Aspirin and Ibuprofen, as well as alcohol, for at least 24–48 hours prior to your appointment to minimize the risk of bruising. Avoid applying any lotions, oils, or creams to the treatment area on the day of your appointment, and wear or bring loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the treatment area. Inform your clinician of any medications you are currently taking, any history of blood clotting disorders, and any previous vein treatments during your consultation.
It is also recommended to arrange for compression stockings to be worn following the procedure, we may advise their use to support the treated veins and optimize your results.
Aftercare
Following your sclerotherapy treatment, there are a few important aftercare steps to support your results and ensure a smooth recovery. Walking immediately after the procedure is not only permitted but encouraged, as movement helps promote healthy circulation in the treated area. Wear compression stockings as directed by our team at PlumpItUpp to support the veins and enhance results. Avoid prolonged sitting or standing, strenuous exercise, and heat exposure — including hot baths, saunas, and direct sun exposure — for at least 48 hours following treatment. Avoid scratching or massaging the treated areas, and apply sunscreen diligently if the treated veins are in sun-exposed areas to prevent post-treatment pigmentation.
Pain, Healing & Downtime
Sclerotherapy involves minimal discomfort and requires no anesthesia. Most clients describe the injections as small, brief pinches that are very easily tolerated. Some clients may feel a mild cramping or burning sensation in the treated vein immediately following the injection, which typically subsides within a few minutes.
There is generally no downtime associated with sclerotherapy. Clients are able to walk immediately after the procedure and most return to work and normal daily activities the very same day. Some mild bruising, swelling, or tenderness around the treated sites is normal and typically resolves within a few days to a couple of weeks. Compression stockings, as recommended by Nurse Reeya, will help support comfort and recovery during the healing period.
Frequently Asked Questions
All you need to know about your treatment so that you feel prepared for your visit. If you have any further questions don’t hesitate to contact us.
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The number of sessions required depends on the number, size, and location of the veins being treated. Most clients see significant improvement after 1–3 sessions. Your provider will assess your veins during your consultation and provide a personalized recommendation.
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Treated veins typically begin to fade within a few weeks, with full results visible after a month or more as the body continues to absorb the collapsed veins. Larger veins may take longer to resolve than smaller spider veins.
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Veins that have been successfully treated with sclerotherapy generally do not reappear. However, new veins may develop over time as part of the natural aging process. Periodic maintenance treatments can address any new veins that emerge.
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Your provider may recommend wearing compression stockings following your treatment to support the treated veins, reduce swelling, and optimize your results. She will advise you on how long to wear them based on your individual treatment.
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Sclerotherapy is most commonly considered a cosmetic procedure and is typically not covered by insurance. Your provider will discuss pricing and treatment options during your consultation.
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Yes! Sclerotherapy can be performed alongside other PlumpItUpp services as part of a comprehensive aesthetic treatment plan. Your provider will advise on the best sequencing and combination of treatments during your consultation to ensure the safest and most effective approach for your individual needs.