Unwanted veins can be a minor cosmetic issue for some, while others experience discomfort or aching sensations. Regardless of whether your concerns are medical or aesthetic, we offer solutions in Mountain View, CA. Sclerotherapy is a widely used treatment that is straightforward and effective for different types of unwanted veins. At Shaheen Vascular, we can help determine if this is the right treatment for your veins.
Spider veins and varicose veins develop when the valves inside the veins weaken or fail and allow blood to pool instead of flowing efficiently back to the heart. In healthy veins, these valves open and close to keep circulation moving in one direction. When they stop functioning properly, blood collects in certain areas, increasing pressure on the vein walls. Over time, this pressure causes veins to stretch, twist, or become more visible beneath the skin. Smaller, broken capillaries result in spider veins, while varicose veins form when larger veins expand and bulge.
We inject a solution directly into unwanted veins, causing them to collapse and gradually fade from view. The solution irritates the vein walls and makes them stick together so blood no longer flows through them. Once this happens, the body reroutes circulation through healthier veins, and the treated vein is naturally absorbed. Since sclerotherapy for varicose veins and sclerotherapy for spider veins doesn’t require incisions, you’ll be able to get back to regular activities soon after the treatment.
We use sclerotherapy for spider veins and smaller varicose veins that sit close to the skin’s surface. When treating sclerotherapy for varicose veins, this approach works best for veins that are small enough to respond to an injected solution. Larger varicose veins may require additional treatments, such as laser therapy or physical removal to fully address the issue.
We inject a sclerosing solution directly into the vein without the need for cuts, stitches, or anesthesia. The treatment takes just a few minutes per vein, and most patients feel only mild discomfort, similar to a small pinch. Since there’s no surgical removal involved, the risk of scarring or long-term irritation is low.
Patients can walk immediately after treatment, which helps circulation and supports proper healing. Most return to work and daily activities the same day, though we recommend avoiding more intense exercise for a short period. We also may suggest compression stockings to improve results, but they don’t interfere with normal movement.
Once a treated vein closes off, it won’t return. The body gradually absorbs it, leaving behind clearer skin and improved circulation. While new veins may develop, you should see noticeable improvement in the appearance of your legs after just one series of vein treatments. If needed, additional treatments can address any remaining or future concerns.
Patients with spider veins or small varicose veins that cause discomfort or are visibly bothersome often benefit from sclerotherapy. The best candidates have good circulation and do not have a history of blood clotting disorders. Pregnant individuals should wait until after delivery, as hormonal changes can impact results. Those with active infections, certain vascular conditions, or known allergies to the sclerosing solution may need alternative treatments.
Avoid blood-thinning medications, including aspirin and ibuprofen, for several days before treatment unless prescribed by a doctor. Keeping the skin clean and free of lotions or oils reduces the risk of irritation. Wearing loose, comfortable clothing and supportive shoes makes it easier to walk after the procedure and compression stockings may also be recommended in advance to promote circulation and enhance results.
We start with an evaluation to examine the affected veins and determine if sclerotherapy is the best option. During this visit, we review medical history, discuss any current medications, and go over expectations for treatment. If a different approach is needed for larger varicose veins, we outline alternative solutions.
We inject a sclerosing solution directly into the targeted vein using a fine needle. Most patients feel a slight pinch or mild burning sensation. Some veins disappear quickly, while others take time to fade. If multiple veins require treatment, we can address several in one session. In cases where additional sessions are necessary, we space them out to allow for proper healing between treatments. Follow-up visits help assess progress and determine if any remaining veins need further attention.
We recommend walking immediately after treatment to encourage healthy circulation and reduce the risk of blood pooling. Mild bruising, redness, or slight swelling at the injection sites is normal and usually fades within a few days.
Most patients resume normal activities right away, but heavy lifting and high-impact exercise should be avoided for about a week. Long periods of standing or sitting should be minimized to prevent excessive pressure on the treated veins. Hot baths, saunas, and direct sun exposure on the legs should also be avoided for a few days to prevent irritation.
Treated veins begin fading within a few weeks, though some take longer to fully disappear. Smaller veins often respond faster, while larger ones may need multiple sessions. Patients typically see the best sclerotherapy results after a few months, once the body has fully absorbed the closed-off veins.
Most patients need one to three sessions per treated area, depending on the size and number of veins. We space sessions several weeks apart to allow the body time to absorb treated veins before reassessing the need for further treatment.
Mild bruising, redness, and slight swelling at the injection sites are common but usually fade within a few days. Some patients notice temporary darkening of the treated veins, which gradually lightens over time. Rarely, small lumps or trapped blood may develop but can be addressed with a follow-up visit if needed.
Once a treated vein collapses, it does not reopen. The body gradually absorbs it, and circulation shifts to healthier veins. However, new veins can develop over time, especially if there is an underlying tendency toward vein issues, which may require future treatment.
Most patients wear compression stockings for about one to two weeks, depending on the size and number of treated veins. These stockings help reduce swelling, improve circulation, and support better healing. Some patients who are more at risk for developing new varicose veins may benefit from full-time use of compression stockings. We provide specific recommendations based on your treatment plan and medical history.
Most sclerotherapy injections take about 30 minutes, but this depends on the number of veins being treated. The process is quick enough that many patients schedule their appointments during a lunch break. After treatment, normal activities can usually be resumed right away.
Dr. Raymond Shaheen, MD, FACS, RPVI, RPHS, leads Shaheen Vascular with expertise in both surgical and minimally invasive treatments for vascular conditions. As a board-certified specialist in vascular surgery, general surgery, and vascular medicine, he provides a full range of care, from traditional open surgeries to advanced endovascular procedures. His practice addresses complex vascular concerns, including aortic aneurysm repair, carotid artery treatment, and interventions for peripheral artery disease. Patients receive individualized treatment plans that prioritize both effectiveness and recovery. Whether managing circulation issues or treating spider and varicose veins, the focus remains on delivering precise, evidence-based care.
Sclerotherapy treatment effectively targets unwanted veins with minimal disruption to daily activities. With the right approach, patients can see lasting improvements in circulation and vein appearance. To learn more or schedule an appointment at Shaheen Vascular in Mountain View, CA, call (650) 965-1909 or contact us through the online form.