Gold Standard Treatment for Spider Veins
Quick, Effective Spider Vein Removal
Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that eliminates spider veins and small varicose veins through a series of tiny injections. At Elmore Medical, our specialists have performed thousands of successful sclerotherapy treatments, making us one of the most sought-after providers in the Central Valley.
What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to eliminate spider veins and small varicose veins.
During the treatment, a solution (called a sclerosing agent) is injected directly into the vein through a very fine needle. This solution irritates the lining of the vein, causing it to collapse and stick together. Over time, the vein turns into scar tissue that fades from view, eventually becoming barely noticeable or invisible.
How Sclerotherapy Works
A sclerosing solution is injected into the targeted vein
The solution causes the vein walls to swell, stick together, and seal shut
Blood flow is redirected to healthier veins
The collapsed vein is reabsorbed by the body
The vein fades from view over several weeks
"Sclerotherapy has been the gold standard treatment for spider veins for over 50 years, providing our patients with clear, beautiful skin with minimal discomfort."
- Elmore Medical Team
Our Sclerotherapy Specialists
Joan Hill, RN, FNP-C
Joan has been a Registered Nurse since 1980 and and Family Nurse Practitioner for over two decades. She joined our team in 2003. She is an expert sclerotherapist and a member of the American Vein & Lymphatic Society. With nearly 20 years of experience performing sclerotherapy at Elmore Medical, Joan has become one of the most sought-after spider vein treatment providers in the Central Valley.
Ellen Kahn, MSN, RN, FNP-C
Ellen has been a Registered Nurse since 2010 and a Nurse Practitioner since 2019. She completed extensive training in sclerotherapy and has dedicated her practice to vein treatments as well as Lymphedema and Lipedema patients. Her gentle technique and attention to detail ensure excellent results with minimal discomfort.
The Sclerotherapy Procedure
✔ Before Your Treatment
Consultation with our specialists to determine if sclerotherapy is right for you
Ultrasound evaluation may be performed to assess underlying vein health
Instructions to avoid certain medications, lotions, or activities before treatment
✔ During Your Treatment
The treatment area is cleaned
A very fine needle is used to inject the sclerosing solution into the vein
You may feel mild discomfort, similar to a small pinch or burning sensation
Multiple veins can be treated in a single session
The procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes, depending on the number and size of veins
No anesthesia is required
✔ After Your Treatment
Compression stockings may be recommended for a period of time
Most patients return to normal activities immediately
Specific post-treatment instructions will be provided
Follow-up appointments ensure optimal results
Types of Sclerotherapy
→ Traditional Sclerotherapy
Our most common treatment for spider veins, using a liquid sclerosing solution injected with a very fine needle. This method is highly effective for small to medium spider veins.
→ Foam Sclerotherapy
For larger veins, we may recommend foam sclerotherapy, which uses a foam version of the sclerosing agent. The foam displaces blood within the vein, allowing for better contact with the vein walls and increased effectiveness.
→ Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy
For veins that are not visible on the surface, we use ultrasound guidance to precisely target the treatment. This advanced technique is particularly effective for treating veins that contribute to surface spider veins but lie deeper beneath the skin.
What Sclerotherapy Treats
Spider Veins
Small, thread-like veins that appear close to the surface of the skin, usually red, purple, or blue in color. These commonly appear on the legs but can also be found on the face or other areas.
Small Varicose Veins
Smaller, less bulging varicose veins can sometimes be treated with sclerotherapy, though larger varicose veins typically require other treatments like endovenous laser therapy.
Treatment Areas
✔ Legs
✔ Face
✔ Hands
✔ Ankles
✔ Feet
Results & Recovery
Expected Results
✔ Spider veins begin to fade within 2-6 weeks after treatment
✔ Multiple sessions are typically needed for optimal results
✔ Most patients see 50-90% improvement in treated veins
✔ Results can be long-lasting, though new spider veins may develop over time
Recovery Timeline
✔ Immediately after: Return to normal activities (except strenuous exercise)
✔ 24-48 hours: Resume exercise and normal activities
✔ 1-2 weeks: Any bruising typically fades
✔ 2-6 weeks: Veins begin to fade
✔ 6-12 weeks: Full results become visible
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Most patients describe a mild burning or stinging sensation during the injection, which subsides quickly. The procedure is well-tolerated without anesthesia.
-
Most patients require 2-4 sclerotherapy sessions for optimal results, depending on the extent and severity of their spider veins. Sessions are typically spaced 4-6 weeks apart.
-
Temporary side effects may include mild bruising, redness, or itching at the injection sites. These typically resolve within a few days. More significant side effects are rare when the procedure is performed by experienced specialists like ours.
-
Once a vein is successfully treated with sclerotherapy, it will not return. However, new spider veins may develop over time. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of developing new spider veins.
-
Most patients return to normal activities immediately after treatment. We typically recommend avoiding strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours and wearing compression stockings as directed.
-
Item description
Is Sclerotherapy Right for You?
During your consultation, our specialists will determine if sclerotherapy is the best treatment option for your specific vein concerns.
Sclerotherapy is ideal for patients who:
Have spider veins or small varicose veins
Are in good overall health
Have realistic expectations about results
Experience symptoms like aching, burning, or itching
Are troubled by the appearance of these veins
Are not pregnant or breastfeeding
Sclerotherapy at
Elmore Medical
At Elmore Medical, we've been providing expert sclerotherapy treatments for over 30 years. Our specialists have performed thousands of successful procedures, making us the premier choice for spider vein treatment in Fresno and the Central Valley.
Elmore Medical Vein & Laser Treatment Center has been Fresno's premier vein specialty practice for over 30 years. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality care for spider veins, varicose veins, and other venous conditions.
Contact Us
Why Choose Us for Sclerotherapy?
✔ Specialized Expertise: Our practitioners focus exclusively on vein treatments
✔ Experienced Team: Over 30 years of experience in vein care
✔ Personalized Care: Customized treatment plans for optimal results
✔ Comfortable Environment: Relaxing office setting with caring staff
✔ Comprehensive Approach: We address both cosmetic concerns and underlying vein health