Spider Veins: Treatment & Recovery Time
Spider veins are small, damaged veins that often appear on the surface of the legs or even the face. They usually are not painful or harmful, and most patients choose to treat them in order to look and feel their best.
The most common question spider vein sufferers ask, “How long is the recovery time for a spider vein treatment?” Let’s take a look at the most common treatment for spider veins, sclerotherapy, and its recovery time.
What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a common spider vein treatment that is also sometimes used in the treatment of varicose veins. It is the most effective procedure for spider veins and patients experience great results with one or more procedures.
During the procedure, a sclerosing solution is injected into the affected veins. This solution causes an irritation to the inner lining of the vein, causing it to collapse. Over time, the treated vein fades away enough to not be seen.
Most patients require a series of treatments over the course of several months, although the number of required treatments varies with each patient. A personalized treatment plan will be discussed at the time of your vein consultation. Sclerotherapy is one of the lowest-risk cosmetic procedures available, and anesthesia is not required.
Sclerotherapy can only be performed by a licensed medical provider (MD, DO, PA, NP or RN) and should only be performed by a provider with specific training and experience.
How Long is Sclerotherapy Recovery?
One of the most incredible aspects of sclerotherapy is that it requires no downtime. Because sclerotherapy treatment is minimally invasive and is performed right in the office, with no anesthesia, you will be able to immediately return to all regular activity. Walking is strongly encouraged after treatment. It is recommended to avoid vigorous exercise, such as aerobics, jogging or heavy weight lifting for 7-10 days after treatment.
Following sclerotherapy, we advise patients to wear compression garments to help speed up the healing process for 1-3 weeks after the procedure. The more time the stockings are worn the sooner the areas will heal and fade.
We often tell our patients that your spider veins will look worse before they look better, During the first two weeks, the veins often look a bit darker and bruising will occur. Over the next 4-6 weeks, the treated spider veins will slowly fade. Some larger clusters will require additional treatments at that time. We also recommend avoiding sun exposure during the healing process, once you are out of the stockings.
Elmore Medical Vein & Laser Treatment Center is the premier vein specialty medical practice in the Central Valley. Dr. Mario H. Gonzalez and his staff offer years of experience and medical expertise that you won’t find anywhere else. Contact us to set up a consultation appointment.