Click here to read a message from the provider about COVID-19.
x
Click here to read a message from the provider about COVID-19.
x

Sclerotherapy

If varicose veins are causing you pain or preventing you from wearing shorts or skirts due to embarrassment, sclerotherapy may be the treatment you need! This medical procedure is an effective varicose and spider vein treatment offered by Dr. Christine Lee at The Skin and Laser Treatment Institute in Walnut Creek, CA.

Sclerotherapy, Walnut Creek

Sclerotherapy overview

Sclerotherapy is an established treatment that has been used since the 1930s. It works by injecting a salt solution into the affected varicose or spider veins. This solution causes irritation in the lining of the vein, which then causes the blood vessel to collapse. When this happens, your blood starts clotting in that location and eventually, the vein becomes scar tissue and blood is forced through the healthier veins in that area of your body. When this happens, the varicose or spider vein is no longer visible through your skin. It can also reduce or eliminate negative symptoms from the problematic veins, such as:

  • Aching, burning, or pain
  • Swelling
  • Feeling of heaviness or restlessness in your leg
  • Cramping at night

What to expect

During the sclerotherapy procedure, you will be instructed to lie down on your back. After the area is cleansed, the doctor will insert a fine needle to inject the solution into the affected veins. You may experience some mild stinging or cramping during the injection.

Recovery from sclerotherapy is usually short and easy. You will need to wear compression socks or bandages for approximately two weeks afterwards to help keep the area compressed. Walking and moving around is encouraged to prevent blood clots from forming. There are few serious side effects, but you may experience bruising, small sores, redness or darkened skin, or tiny blood vessels in the area that was treated. These side effects can go away in a matter of days or a few weeks, but occasionally last for longer.

Sclerotherapy cost

The cost of sclerotherapy depends on the size of the treatment area and how many injections are needed. If the procedure is being done purely for cosmetic reasons, it will not be covered by insurance, but if it is being done for a medical reason, your insurance may cover it in part or in full.

If you are interested in learning more about sclerotherapy for varicose and spider veins and whether it is the right choice for you, call Dr. Lee at (925) 528-0117 to schedule a consultation today.

Dr. Christine Lee

Dr. Min-Wei Christine Lee

Dr. Christine Lee is a Board-certified Dermatologist with sub-specialties in laser surgery, cosmetic surgery, Mohs Micrographic Surgery, facial plastic reconstruction, and dermatologic surgery. She leads The Skin And Laser Treatment Institute as its Director and serves as Clinical Faculty for the Department of Dermatologic Surgery at the University of California San Francisco. Patients travel from across the globe for her expertise, and Dr. Lee has trained thousands of stateside and international doctors.

Success Stories

Affiliations & Awards