What to Expect During Your First Sclerotherapy Session

Choosing to treat spider veins and varicose veins can feel like a big decision, especially if it’s your first time. For many patients, sclerotherapy offers a minimally invasive, clinic-based solution that helps reduce the visibility and discomfort associated with damaged veins. But what can you really expect from your first session?

At Comprehensive Vein Care (CVC), we understand that knowledge helps reduce anxiety. Here's a clear, step-by-step overview to help you feel confident and prepared on your first sclerotherapy session. 

Getting Started: Your Initial Consultation

Before any treatment is performed, your journey begins with a detailed evaluation by a qualified vein specialist or phlebologist. This consultation helps assess whether sclerotherapy is appropriate for your condition.

The specialist may:

• Review your medical history and symptoms
  
• Perform a physical examination of your legs
  
• Recommend an ultrasound to examine deeper veins

You’ll also discuss your concerns and expectations. If sclerotherapy is recommended, your provider will explain the process, outline a personalized plan, and address any questions you may have.

Preparing for Your First Visit

You don’t need to do much to prepare, but a few simple steps can help things go smoothly:

• Avoid applying lotions or oils to your legs on the day of your appointment.
  
• Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing.
  
• If you were advised to bring compression stockings, be sure to have them with you.

In some cases, you may be asked to temporarily pause medications or supplements that can affect blood clotting or bruising. Your provider will guide you based on your specific situation.

What It Feels Like: During the Procedure

Your first session typically takes place in an outpatient setting and generally lasts less than an hour.

Here’s what you can expect:

1. You’ll be positioned comfortably on an exam table.
   
2. The area to be treated will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
   
3. Using a very fine needle, the specialist will inject a sclerosing solution into the targeted veins.

Most patients describe the sensation as a light pinch or mild burning at the injection site. Any discomfort is usually brief and manageable. Several veins may be treated in one session, depending on your treatment plan.

Immediately After the Session: What Happens Next

Once the injections are complete, the specialist may massage the treated area gently and apply light compression. You’ll likely be asked to stand and walk around the clinic for a few minutes to encourage blood flow.

You’ll either be fitted with compression stockings at the clinic or advised to wear them after the procedure.These help support your veins and promote proper circulation, especially in the hours and days following treatment.

Post-Treatment Care: Compression and Recovery

Following your first session, your provider will give you personalized aftercare instructions. General recommendations often include:

• Wearing compression stockings for a prescribed period
  
• Walking regularly to support healing
  
• Avoiding strenuous activities, hot baths, and prolonged sun exposure for a few days

It’s common to resume most normal activities the same day. However, recovery experiences can vary, and your provider will advise what’s right for you.

Side Effects to Expect After Your First Session

Mild and temporary side effects may occur after the first session. These can include:

• Light bruising at injection sites
  
• Temporary redness or slight swelling
  
• Minor itching or skin sensitivity

These effects usually resolve on their own over time. In rare cases, patients may experience small skin discolorations. Your provider will review any potential outcomes with you in advance and provide guidance on how to care for your legs post-treatment.

When Will You See Results?

Visible improvement typically begins to show in the weeks following treatment. However, the timeline can vary based on factors like:

• The size and location of the veins
  
• Your body’s natural healing process
  
• Whether additional sessions are needed

Some veins may respond faster than others. Your specialist will monitor your progress and make adjustments to your care plan if necessary.

Will You Need More Sessions?

For many individuals, a single session brings noticeable improvement. However, depending on the extent of your spider veins or varicose veins, your provider may recommend multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart.

During follow-up visits, your vein specialist will evaluate how well the veins are responding and determine whether further treatment is needed to reach your goals.

Why Your First Visit Sets the Tone for Better Vein Health

Your first session is more than a procedure—it’s the beginning of a proactive approach to managing your vein health. When guided by a qualified team, sclerotherapy treatment can support better leg comfort, improved circulation, and renewed confidence in your appearance.

At CVC, our team of experienced professionals uses evidence-based techniques and patient-centered care to ensure your experience is safe, informed, and effective.

FAQs

Q: Does sclerotherapy hurt?
A: Most patients experience only minor discomfort, such as a quick sting or tingling at the injection site. It is generally well tolerated.

Q: Can I go back to work after the treatment?
A: Many individuals are able to resume their usual daily activities the same day, although high-impact workouts may need to be postponed temporarily.

Q: Are the results permanent?
A: Treated veins typically do not return. However, new veins can form over time, which may require maintenance treatments.

Q: How do I know if sclerotherapy is right for me?
A: A thorough consultation with a vein specialist is the best way to determine whether this treatment is suitable for your specific needs.

Take the First Step Toward Healthier Legs
Ready to address uncomfortable or unsightly veins? Book your first consultation with CVC and discover how personalized vein care can help you look and feel better—safely and confidently.

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