Sclerotherapy in Los Angeles, CA
Sclerotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for spider veins and small varicose veins, helping improve both cosmetic appearance and leg comfort. The vein treatment involves injecting a medicated solution directly into the vein, causing it to collapse and gradually fade from view. For many patients, sclerotherapy offers an efficient, minimally invasive way to address visible veins and mild vein-related symptoms.
At the Vein and Wound Center of LA, Dr. Christopher Kim provides visual sclerotherapy using evidence-based techniques and high-quality sclerosants. Drawing on extensive experience in vein care, he evaluates each patient’s vein patterns to determine whether visual sclerotherapy is appropriate or if other treatments are needed for optimal results.
What is Sclerotherapy and When is It Needed?
Visual sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat spider veins and small superficial veins that can be seen with the naked eye. A sclerosant solution is injected into the targeted vein using a fine needle. The solution irritates the vein wall, causing it to seal shut. Over time, the treated vein is absorbed by the body, and circulation reroutes to healthier veins.
Sclerotherapy is typically recommended for patients who:
• Want to improve the cosmetic appearance of spider veins or small varicose veins
• Experience mild aching, itching, or swelling around visible veins
• Have not achieved relief from compression therapy alone
• Prefer a non-surgical option for vein clearance
It is not used for veins requiring ultrasound guidance, deeper veins, or veins associated with significant venous reflux.
The Benefits of Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy provides several advantages, particularly for cosmetic or surface-level vein concerns:
• It is minimally invasive: No incisions or anesthesia are needed.
• Recovery is quick: Most people resume normal activities the same day.
• Skin appearance improves: Treated veins fade gradually, revealing clearer skin.
• Symptoms decrease: Mild aching, itching, or heaviness may improve.
• Results last: With proper care, results can be long-lasting.
Which Veins Sclerotherapy Treats
• Spider veins (telangiectasias): Fine red, blue, or purple surface veins
• Small reticular veins: Slightly larger blue-green veins under the skin
• Clusters with visible feeders: When surface vessels contribute to spider vein networks
• Some veins on the face or chest (case-dependent): Using diluted sclerosant
Sclerotherapy does not treat bulging varicose veins, deeper tributaries, or axial (trunk) veins.
How Visual Sclerotherapy Works (Step-by-Step)
• The skin is cleansed
• A fine needle is inserted into the visible vein
• A small amount of sclerosant is injected
• The vein collapses and seals shut
• Blood reroutes into healthy veins
• The treated vein fades over weeks to months
What to Expect After Sclerotherapy
Most patients tolerate visual sclerotherapy well. It is normal to experience:
• Mild redness at injection sites
• Temporary swelling or small welts
• Light bruising
• Slight tightness or tingling along the vein
Walking is encouraged after treatment, and compression stockings may be recommended to reduce bruising and enhance outcomes.
When Visual Sclerotherapy Is NOT the Right Treatment
Visual sclerotherapy is not recommended when:
• Deeper veins require ultrasound guidance
• Reflux is suspected in veins not visible at the surface
• The vein is too large or tortuous
• Symptoms include significant heaviness or swelling
• A perforator or trunk vein is contributing pressure
In such cases, ultrasound-guided foam, microphlebectomy, Varithena®, or ablation may be more effective.
Is Visual Sclerotherapy Right for You?
Visual sclerotherapy is suitable for many adults with surface-level vein concerns. It may not be appropriate if you:
• Are pregnant
• Have certain clotting disorders
• Have an active infection near the treatment area
• Have untreated venous hypertension
Dr. Kim evaluates each patient individually and recommends the most effective treatment based on vein pattern and symptoms.
Why Choose Vein & Wound Center of LA for Sclerotherapy
• Experienced Clinical Evaluation: Dr. Christopher Kim determines whether visual sclerotherapy will be effective or if another option will provide better long-term results.
• Precision Treatment: He uses high-quality sclerosants and careful technique to reduce complications like matting or pigmentation.
• Appropriate Case Selection: Dr. Kim distinguishes cosmetic surface veins from veins requiring ultrasound-guided treatment, helping reduce recurrence.
• Comprehensive Vein Expertise: With experience spanning both surface and deep venous disease, he offers guidance on the full range of treatment options.
• Convenient Koreatown Location: Our Los Angeles practice offers free garage parking and easy access for follow-up visits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sclerotherapy sessions will I need?
That depends on the number, size, and depth of the veins. Many patients need several sessions for complete clearance.
How long does it take for veins to fade?
Some improvement appears within a few weeks, but full fading can take several months.
Will sclerotherapy treat all of my visible veins?
It treats spider veins and small reticular veins. Larger varicose veins often require different procedures.
Should I wear compression afterward?
Compression can reduce minor side effects and may improve cosmetic results. Dr. Kim will advise based on your treatment area.
Is sclerotherapy painful?
Most patients describe the sensation as a mild pinch or brief burning.
Can treated veins come back?
Treated veins do not return, but new veins can form over time due to genetics or underlying venous tendencies.
Is there downtime?
No. Light walking is encouraged, and most normal activities can be resumed immediately.
What is the difference between visual and ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy?
Visual sclerotherapy treats veins you can see at the surface. Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy is used for veins beneath the skin that require imaging for accurate targeting.
Treat Surface Spider Veins with Sclerotherapy in Los Angeles, CA
If you are struggling with the discomfort or appearance of spider veins on the surface of your skin, the Vein and Wound Center of LA is here to help. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Christopher Kim and learn whether visual sclerotherapy is the right solution for you, call (213) 654-8346.
