Treatment

Sclerotherapy

Preparation for a sterile sclerotherapy procedure

Rediscover Confidence: How Sclerotherapy Can Help You Treat Varicose and Spider Veins

If you’ve been hiding your legs because of bulging veins or suffering in silence from aching, heavy legs, you’re not alone. Varicose and spider veins affect millions of people—especially those over 40—and can range from mild cosmetic concerns to deeply uncomfortable symptoms that impact daily life.

At our cardiovascular and vein clinic in Singapore, we understand how these conditions don’t just affect your body—they affect your confidence, your comfort, and your quality of life. That’s why we offer sclerotherapy, a time-tested, minimally invasive treatment that helps restore both the appearance and function of your legs.

What Are Varicose Veins—and Why Do They Happen?

Your veins have an important job: they return blood back to your heart. In your legs, this job is harder because blood must travel upward—against gravity—through one-way valves. When these valves weaken or fail, blood pools in the vein, causing it to stretch and bulge. This is how varicose veins and spider veins form.

You might notice:

• Aching or heaviness in your legs
• Swelling at the end of the day
• Cramps, especially at night
• Itching or a burning sensation

Many factors increase your risk—age, pregnancy, obesity, prolonged standing, or even genetics.

What About Spider Veins?

If you're noticing small red, blue, or purple web-like veins on your legs or face, those are likely spider veins—and they’re more common than you think. While generally harmless, many patients find them frustrating or unsightly.

Sclerotherapy is highly effective for treating spider veins. With each session, these veins fade, leaving behind clearer skin and renewed confidence.

How Sclerotherapy Works

Sclerotherapy is one of the most effective and widely used treatments for both varicose veins and spider veins, especially when caught early. It’s an outpatient procedure performed right here in our clinic.

Here’s what happens:

A small needle is used to inject a solution—called a sclerosant—directly into the abnormal vein. This agent irritates the vein lining, causing it to collapse and seal shut. Blood is then naturally rerouted to healthier veins, and the treated vein is slowly reabsorbed by your body over time.

Think of it as gently closing a road that's no longer working, and letting traffic take a smoother detour.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Treatment

Before Your Appointment:

You may be asked to avoid certain medications such as aspirin, anti-inflammatories, or corticosteroids like prednisone, which can interfere with the treatment. Bring your compression stockings with you—they’ll help aid healing afterward.

During the Procedure:

• Performed in-office in under an hour
• A test injection is usually done first to ensure no allergic reaction
• Most patients feel only a slight pinch or a mild burning sensation
• Multiple veins can be treated in one session, depending on your needs

After the Procedure:

• You’ll be encouraged to walk immediately—this helps prevent blood clots
• Compression stockings are usually worn for about a week
• You should avoid strenuous exercise, hot baths, and direct sun exposure for 48 hours
• Mild side effects may include bruising, red spots, or temporary darkening of the skin

Is Sclerotherapy Right for You?

Sclerotherapy is generally safe and effective for many adults, especially if you’re bothered by leg discomfort or the cosmetic appearance of veins. However, it might not be recommended if you:

• Have significant mobility issues
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have a recent history of blood clots or major surgery
• Have had a recent long hospital stay