Sclerotherapy - FAQs

Thread veins can restrict both our leisure activities and the clothes we wear. This can be easily rectified by sclerotherapy, so following treatment you will feel more confident about wearing shorts and bathing costumes.

Sclerotherapy is the removal of thread veins (otherwise known as spider veins), using a well established medical technique. This involves a commitment to a course of treatments. Your nurse will advise on the approximate number of treatments required for your individual needs.

Is Sclerotherapy safe?

Yes, it has been used for at least 20 years as a tried and tested method of removing unwanted thread veins. It is evidence based with an extremely high safety profile. The Cheshire Image Clinic has a huge amount of experience in this field.

How does Sclerotherapy work?

A very fine needle is inserted into the capillary network and a small amount of a special solution called a sclerosant is injected. This solution acts like a medical glue which enables the capillary walls to be stuck together.

How long does a Sclerotherapy treatment take?

Each treatment will take anywhere between fifteen minutes and half an hour. At your initial assessment your nurse will give an indication of how many treatments will be necessary to complete your course.

Does it hurt?

Most people find the treatment very tolerable.

Are there any side-effects?

Side effects are rare and if they do occur are temporary. Initially, following treatment there will be redness and swelling like tiny gnat bites. This will disappear after two days. Bruising will take slightly longer to fade.