Sclerotherapy for Spider Veins in Galway
Sclerotherapy for Spider Veins in Tuam, Galway
Thread veins (also known as spider veins) are small, superficial, visible veins that commonly appear on the legs. They can appear red, purple or blue. They may develop due to a combination of factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, pregnancy, prolonged standing and ageing. They differ from larger varicose veins and usually do not cause medical problems. Some people find them bothersome in appearance and choose to treat them for cosmetic reasons.
Sclerotherapy is a well-established minimally invasive medical procedure used to reduce the appearance of thread veins. It involves injecting a solution directly into the thread veins using a very fine needle. The solution irritates the lining of the vein, causing it to gradually close and be reabsorbed by the body over time. Blood flow is then naturally redirected to healthier veins. The aim of treatment is to reduce the visibility of thread veins. Sclerotherapy is considered as the first-line and gold-standard treatment for reducing the appearance of unwanted superficial veins safely, comfortably, and with minimal downtime.
At our clinic, treatment is carried out by our doctor following a careful assessment to ensure it is appropriate for you.
Benefits of Sclerotherapy:
- Reduces the appearance of spider veins
- Improves leg comfort (reducing aching, burning, or swelling)
- Boosts confidence when wearing shorts, dresses, or swimwear
- Safe, quick, and virtually painless
- Minimal downtime
Scientific Evidence to Support Sclerotherapy for Spider veins:
- Beneat A, Oropallo A. Sclerotherapy. [Updated 2024 Jan 11]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK599526/
- Sandean DP, Syed HA, Winters R. Spider Veins. [Updated 2024 Sep 19]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563218/
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the treatment involve?
The process involves a consultation and assessment of your veins to confirm that sclerotherapy is suitable for you. Followed by injection of the treatment solution into targeted veins, if treatment is suitable for you. Compression may be advised after treatment. Follow-up sessions may be recommended if needed.
Is the treatment painful?
Most people describe mild stinging or discomfort during injections, which is usually brief.
When will I see results?
Changes usually develop gradually over several weeks as the body absorbs the treated veins.
Are there side effects?
Possible side effects include temporary redness, bruising, pigmentation changes or tenderness at the injection sites. These are usually short-lived and will be discussed beforehand.