Sclerotherapy

The majority of thread veins are suitable for sclerotherapy which involves injecting a sclerosing agent into the thread vein using with a very fine needle. The injections are usually relatively painless but can sting occasionally. They are given in outpatients and we usually allow 20 minutes to ensure we get rid of as many as possible. You will be able to drive to and from the session but we will put stockings on you which we will ask you to wear for 1 to 2 weeks. Most people need more than one session but will see considerable improvement within usually 2 or 3 sessions.

The injection causes the veins to become inflamed and they are then absorbed by your body’s natural immune system.  The veins disappear, healing by fibrosis (thin internal scar which is not visible) although you may see reddened areas for up to 3 weeks. There may be a small bruise or stain which fades over the next 6 to 12 weeks. Occasionally the stain can take longer to fade (up to a year) so it is not a good idea to have them injected just before a holiday or your important wedding photo!

If you have many veins we may not be able to get rid of all of them. What most people want to achieve is to be more confident with their legs, and go back to wearing clothes that reveal them.

Be proud of your legs