MICROSCLEROTHERAPY

Microsclerotherapy involves the injection of a medical solution (known as a sclerosant) directly into the affected veins using a very fine needle.

This solution irritates the inner lining of the vein, causing the vein walls to collapse and seal shut.

Over time, the treated vein is naturally broken down and absorbed by the body, fading visibly from the surface of the skin.

Because thread veins are part of the superficial venous system, closing them off does not affect circulation. The body simply re-routes blood through healthier veins.

In clinic you will undergo a thorough consultation and examination in order to determine whether the treatment is suitable and effective for you.

Although for a lot of our consultations and treatments we can offer a same day, ‘See and Treat’ service, for Microsclerotherapy you will first need to have a consultation and then we will commence your treatment at a different appointment.

This is to ensure that you are properly prepared for the treatment and aftercare.

(Your consultation fee is fully redeemable against your first treatment)

• The skin is thoroughly cleansed, and a very fine needle is used to inject the sclerosant into each of the visible thread veins.

• Treatment is typically well tolerated, though patients may feel a mild stinging or tingling sensation.

• Several injections may be needed depending on the size and number of veins treated.

• The procedure typically takes 30–45 minutes and is well tolerated with minimal discomfort.

After the session, you’ll be advised to wear compression stockings to aid healing and improve results by supporting the closure of treated veins.

The number of sessions varies depending on the extent and severity of the thread veins.
Most patients require between 2 to 4 sessions, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, for optimal clearance.

While some improvement is often seen after the first session, full results develop gradually as the treated veins fade over several weeks.

Maintenance treatments may be recommended annually or bi-annually for long-term results.

Microsclerotherapy is not suitable for everyone. You may not be a candidate if you:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Have a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

• Have active skin infections or ulcers in the treatment area

• Suffer from poor circulation, venous or arterial disease

• Are allergic to the sclerosant used

• Have recently undergone certain surgeries or procedures involving the legs

A full medical history will be taken during your consultation to ensure the treatment is safe and appropriate for you.

In order to ensure that you do not have any underlying pathology affecting the deep veins of the legs, which could render the treatment ineffective, it is advisable that before seeking cosmetic improvement of the superficial thread veins, you should be assessed by a vascular surgeon (or phlebologist) who will be able to examine your venous system using an ultrasound scan. They will then be able to give you the all-clear for proceeding with superficial vein removal.

Aftercare is an important part of achieving the best results:

• You’ll need to wear compression stockings for 5–7 days post-treatment.

• Mild redness, swelling or bruising at injection sites is normal and usually resolves within a few days.

• Avoid hot baths and saunas for the first 3 days.

• Avoid intense exercise for the first 7 days.

• No sun exposure or tanning on treated areas for 4-6 weeks to minimise pigmentation risks.

• The veins may appear darker or they may impart a yellow-brown staining to the skin before they begin to fade over 2-6 weeks: this is part of the natural healing process.

Most patients can return to normal daily activities immediately, but it’s advisable to avoid standing for long periods on the day of treatment.

It is important to note that in some patients the staining can take several weeks (or in rare cases, months to fully fade). Therefore it is always best to start your treatment course in the colder months, when your legs will be more covered while your healing is underway.

You’ll be provided with detailed aftercare instructions, and a follow-up plan will be discussed based on your individual needs.