Sclerotherapy in Brisbane
Treatment for Spider Veins on the Legs
Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive treatment used to reduce the appearance of small red, blue, or purple veins commonly known as spider veins which most often appear on the thighs, calves and ankles.
At Your Dermatologist, sclerotherapy is delivered by a qualified registered nurse under specialist dermatologist oversight.
What is a Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting a specialised solution, known as a sclerosant, directly into targeted veins. The solution irritates the inner lining of the vein, causing it to collapse, seal shut, and gradually fade from view as it is broken down by the body.
It is best suited to small red, purple, or blue leg veins, spider veins, or small reticular veins. Larger varicose veins or underlying venous reflux may require different assessment or treatment before sclerotherapy can be considered.
What veins can be treated with sclerotherapy?
Spider veins (telangiectasia): fine red, blue, or purple vessels close to the skin surface, commonly appearing on the thighs, calves and ankles
Small reticular veins: slightly larger, bluish feeder veins just beneath the skin surface
Sclerotherapy is not suitable for larger varicose veins or underlying venous reflux. These conditions may need separate assessment and management before or instead of sclerotherapy. Your treating nurse will discuss whether sclerotherapy is appropriate for your veins at your initial assessment
What about vascular laser for veins?
Not all visible veins are suitable for injection. Some veins may be better suited to treatment with vascular laser rather than sclerotherapy.
At Your Dermatologist, vascular laser is available as an alternative for these cases. Your treating nurse or dermatologist will advise whether sclerotherapy, vascular laser, or a combination approach is most appropriate for your veins at the time of assessment.
Spider Veins on the legs
Spider veins are a common concern, appearing as small red, blue, or purple vessels visible beneath the skin surface. They most often develop on the thighs, calves and ankles, and may occur in clusters or a web-like pattern.
They often develop in association with hereditary predisposition, prolonged standing, hormonal changes or pregnancy. They are not always symptomatic, but many people seek treatment for cosmetic reasons or associated discomfort.
How sclerotherapy may help spider veins
For suitable patients, sclerotherapy treatment may:
Reduce the visibility of spider veins and small reticular veins
Improve the overall appearance of affected areas on the legs
Achieve progressive fading of treated veins over several weeks
Sclerotherapy does not prevent new veins from forming, and maintenance treatment may be required over time. Suitability depends on vein type, size and depth.
How sclerotherapy may help spider veins
For suitable patients, sclerotherapy treatment may:
Reduce the visibility of spider veins and small reticular veins
Improve the overall appearance of affected areas on the legs
Achieve progressive fading of treated veins over several weeks
Sclerotherapy does not prevent new veins from forming, and maintenance treatment may be required over time. Suitability depends on vein type, size and depth.
What does a sclerotherapy treatment session involve?
Treatment is performed in clinic by a qualified registered nurse and typically includes:
Assessment of the veins to be treated
Injection of sclerosant solution using fine needles into targeted spider veins
Application of compression stockings following the procedure
Post-treatment care instructions
Sessions typically last 40–60 minutes depending on the area and number of veins being treated. No general anaesthesia is required.
Patients are advised to wear compression stockings and remain mobile following treatment to support optimal outcomes
What results can be expected?
Sclerotherapy aims to reduce the visibility of treated spider veins, with gradual fading occurring over several weeks as the body breaks down the collapsed vessel.
Many patients need more than one session to achieve a satisfactory result. The number of sessions required depends on:
How many veins are present
The size and depth of the veins
How well individual veins respond to treatment
Whether there is any underlying venous problem
Complete clearance cannot be guaranteed, and new veins may develop over time. Please note that individual results may vary depending on a range of factors, including skin type, age, genetics, lifestyle, medical history, and commitment to pre- and post-treatment care.
Assessment prior to treatment helps to:
Confirm suitability for sclerotherapy
Identify any underlying venous insufficiency that may need addressing first
Distinguish simple spider veins from conditions requiring a different approach
Establish a realistic treatment plan based on the number, size and distribution of veins
Sclerotherapy is recommended only when it is appropriate for the individual patient.
Larger varicose veins or underlying venous reflux may need separate assessment or treatment before sclerotherapy can be considered. Your nurse will advise you at the time of consultation.
Possible side effects may include:
Redness, bruising or swelling at injection sites
Mild discomfort during or after the procedure
Temporary darkening of treated vessels (haemosiderin staining), which usually fades
Matting: a fine network of new capillaries that may appear temporarily near treated areas
Superficial inflammation or phlebitis along treated vessels
Less common side effects will be discussed during your consultation. You nurse will explain the full risk profile, aftercare requirements and what to expect during the healing process prior to treatment.
Sclerotherapy Spider Vein Treatment in Brisbane
If you are seeking sclerotherapy in Brisbane for spider veins, an assessment can help determine whether this treatment is appropriate for your veins.
At Your Dermatologist, sclerotherapy is delivered by a qualified registered nurse under specialist dermatologist oversight, with careful patient selection and realistic expectations at every stage of care.
To find out more or to book your consultation, contact Your Dermatologist today.