What Is Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy involves injecting a specialized solution directly into the problematic veins. This causes the vein walls to collapse and be naturally absorbed by the body, improving the appearance of the skin and overall circulation. We utilize several types of safe and proven medications in our practice, including:

• Hypertonic saline

• Glycerin

• Sotradecol

• Polidocanol

Is Sclerotherapy Safe?

Yes. Sclerotherapy is widely considered to be a safe and effective treatment. At Pacific Dermatology Specialists, we use hypertonic saline—a solution made of 23.4% sodium chloride with no preservatives or heparin. This makes the treatment highly effective while significantly reducing the risk of allergic reactions or permanent skin discoloration.

Some patients may experience a brief stinging or mild discomfort during the injection, but the sensation typically subsides within minutes.

Possible Side Effects

While sclerotherapy is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience minor side effects, including:

• Temporary brown spots or light crusting at injection sites

• Minimal risk of permanent discoloration or mild scarring

• Superficial thrombophlebitis (a clot in the treated vein)

• Rare development of tiny new vessels (matting)

• Minimal discharge or mild inflammation in rare cases

These effects are usually temporary and respond well to conservative treatments like aspirin, topical care, or additional sclerotherapy if needed.

No Downtime, Fast Recovery

One of the greatest benefits of sclerotherapy is the ability to return to work or daily activities immediately after treatment. Most patients experience no disruption in their schedule and report visible improvement in the appearance of their veins within weeks.

How Many Sessions Will I Need?

The number of sessions required varies by individual and depends on the extent of your vein condition and your desired cosmetic outcome. Many patients notice a 50% improvement or more after each treatment, though results can’t be guaranteed. Sessions are typically spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart until optimal results are achieved.

Get Started Today

Don’t let visible leg veins impact your confidence. Schedule a consultation with the experienced team at Pacific Dermatology Specialists to determine if sclerotherapy is the right solution for you.