Sclerotherapy: Your Timeline for Healing and Results

Woman no longer has spider veins on her legs after sclerotherapy. Sclerotherapy is a well-established treatment for spider veins and small varicose veins on the legs, offering safe, effective results with minimal downtime. If you are considering trying this treatment for yourself, you probably want to know when you’ll see improvements and what the recovery  looks like.

At her Westlake practice, near Cleveland, board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained dermatologic surgeon Dr. Renuka Diwan performs sclerotherapy with a focus on both comfort and successful outcomes. Her experience in cosmetic dermatology and dermatologic surgery ensures that patients receive expert care throughout.

Immediate Post-Treatment Experience

Right after sclerotherapy, it’s normal to experience mild redness, swelling, or a slight stinging sensation at the injection sites. Some veins may appear darker or more visible initially, which is part of the natural response to sclerotherapy. Compression stockings are typically recommended and should be worn immediately after sclerotherapy, as directed, to support circulation and help the treated veins close properly.

If you are like most patients, you will feel well enough to return to work or light daily activities the same day. Walking is encouraged, but high-impact exercise and hot baths should be avoided for a few days. Sun exposure should be avoided for two weeks after completing slserotherapy.

Week-by-Week Recovery Timeline

During the first week, you can expect small circular bruises, tenderness, or firmness along the treated veins. These symptoms typically fade on their own. Remember that veins may look worse before they look better — this is a temporary and expected part of the healing process.

By weeks two through four, most visible effects have resolved, and the veins may begin to fade. However, full results can take six weeks or longer depending on the size of the veins and whether multiple sessions are needed.

When to Expect Final Results

While some veins begin fading within a few weeks, you can expect to see significant improvement by the six week mark. In some cases, repeat treatments may be recommended for optimal results, especially when treating larger clusters of veins.

Why Professional Expertise Matters

Dr. Diwan brings decades of experience and advanced training in procedural dermatology to each treatment. She tailors sclerotherapy plans to each patient’s vein size, skin condition, and medical history for safe, effective care. Her attention to post-treatment instructions also helps ensure a smoother recovery and more predictable outcomes.

If you’re considering sclerotherapy, schedule a consultation with Dr. Diwan to learn what kind of results you can expect and how to support your skin’s healing after treatment. Contact our office in Westlake, OH at 440-871-9832 today.