What is sclerotherapy?

• Spider veins (small violaceous or reddish vessels, < 2 mm)
• Small uncomplicated superficial varicose veins
• Aesthetic finishing after treatment of more significant venous insufficiency (endovenous laser, surgery)
• An aesthetic request in a patient with no contraindication

A prior venous assessment (clinical examination ± Doppler ultrasound) is recommended to rule out significant underlying venous insufficiency that would require specific care before any aesthetic procedure.

Contraindications

• Known allergy to the sclerosing product
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding
• History of deep vein thrombosis or recent pulmonary embolism
• Severe arterial disease of the lower limbs (uninvestigated obliterative arteriopathy)
• Local or general progressive skin infection
• Severe uncontrolled coagulation disorder
• Untreated deep venous insufficiency
• Poorly controlled diabetes
• Anticoagulant or antiplatelet treatment (aspirin, eliquis)

Precautions before treatment

• Venous Doppler ultrasound if associated venous insufficiency is suspected
• Patient information on expected results, the number of sessions needed and possible side effects
• Avoid sun exposure and self-tanner before the sclerotherapy session

Precautions after treatment

• Wear elastic compression (stockings or compression socks) for 48h
• Avoid hot baths, sauna, hammam and intense sport for 48h
• Strict sun protection of the treated area for several weeks to limit the risk of pigmentation

Possible side effects

• Redness, bruises and temporary swelling at the injection point
• Residual brownish pigmentation along the vein path (generally temporary, sometimes prolonged)
• Appearance of fine telangiectasia (“matting”) around the treated area (rare)
• Pain or a slight burning sensation at the time of injection
• Local allergic reaction (rare)
• Rare complications: superficial vein thrombosis, local skin ulceration

Course and results

• Quick session (20 minutes depending on the surface to treat)
• Several sessions are generally needed, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart
• Result visible gradually over several weeks to a few months
• Medical follow-up is offered to assess progress and plan any additional sessions

Cost

• 180 euros/20-minute session
• Aesthetic treatment (no reimbursement by mutual insurance or private insurers)