Spider veins and varicose veins can affect both how your legs look and how they feel. Visual sclerotherapy provides a minimally invasive, outpatient solution that reduces visible veins and alleviates associated discomfort. At Sheen Vein (Aesthetics and Functional Medicine) in St. Louis, patients receive expert, individualized care for safe and effective vein treatment that delivers lasting results with minimal downtime.

What Is Visual Sclerotherapy? 

This minimally invasive procedure is used to treat visible veins in the legs or other areas. A specialist injects a solution into the targeted veins, causing them to collapse. Over time, blood naturally reroutes to healthier veins, and the treated veins are gradually absorbed by the body.

Unlike surgical options, this treatment usually does not require anesthesia and is performed in an outpatient setting. It is particularly effective for veins that are close to the surface, offering both therapeutic and cosmetic benefits.

How the Procedure Works

This minimally invasive treatment is precise and generally well tolerated:

1. Preparation: The vein is cleansed, and the treatment area is carefully marked.
   
   
2. Injection: A tiny needle delivers the sclerosing solution, causing veins to swell, stick together, and close.
   
   
3. Healing Process: Over weeks, the body reabsorbs the treated veins while redirecting blood through healthier veins.
   
   
4. Follow-Up: Patients receive guidance on post-procedure care, including activity recommendations and check-ups.

Most patients notice visible improvements within a few weeks, with gradual fading continuing over time.

Patient Experience

“Amazing! Dr. Sheen is incredible! He really helped make my legs feel like I was 16 years old again. The cosmetic outcome was just an added bonus! I just want to thank him and his entire staff for making this an amazing, comfortable, and truly exciting experience!” – Janie

Patients consistently report comfortable procedures, expert guidance, and visible results, reinforcing the clinic’s reputation as a trusted vein treatment provider in St. Louis. Every consultation is tailored to each individual’s needs, ensuring the treatment plan addresses both cosmetic and functional concerns.

Considerations and Limitations

This treatment primarily addresses visible veins and may not resolve the underlying causes. To maintain results and support vein health, it is often recommended to combine the procedure with:

• Compression therapy to improve circulation
  
  
• Endovenous laser treatment for underlying vein issues
  
  
• Lifestyle adjustments, such as regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding prolonged standing

A vein specialist can create a personalized treatment plan based on an individual’s vein health and lifestyle, helping patients maintain long-term results and comfort.

Visual Sclerotherapy vs. Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy

Many patients considering vein treatment in St. Louis want to understand the difference between visual sclerotherapy and ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy.

Visual sclerotherapy is typically used for spider veins and smaller varicose veins that are visible on the surface. Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy, on the other hand, is used for veins that are deeper or harder to see, where imaging helps the specialist locate and treat them effectively.

Both procedures involve injecting a solution into the targeted veins to help them close and fade over time. Choosing the right approach depends on the specific veins being treated, which a qualified vein specialist can assess during a consultation.

Benefits of Visual Sclerotherapy 

This procedure offers several advantages:

• Minimally invasive procedure with no anesthesia
  
  
• Little to no downtime, allowing patients to resume normal activities quickly
  
  
• Effective for small spider veins, typically under 3mm
  
  
• Cosmetic improvement and reduction of discomfort, such as aching, swelling, or itching
  
  
• Outpatient treatment, reducing disruption to daily routine

Patients frequently note improvements not only in appearance but also in comfort and confidence, making it an effective choice for both functional and cosmetic outcomes.

‍

Who Is a Good Candidate? 

This procedure is generally suitable for adults who:

• Have visible spider veins or small varicose veins
  
  
• Desire cosmetic improvement and relief from mild symptoms
  
  
• Do not have a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
  
  
• Are not pregnant or breastfeeding

During a consultation, a specialist evaluates vein health to ensure the procedure is safe and effective, tailoring the treatment plan to each patient’s specific condition.

Risks and Side Effects

This procedure is generally considered safe and effective for treating visible, small veins. Most individuals experience minimal discomfort during treatment and can resume normal activities shortly afterward.

As with any medical procedure, it’s important to follow the guidance of a qualified vein specialist, who can provide instructions for care after treatment and ensure the best possible results.

Recovery and Aftercare 

This procedure is performed in an outpatient setting and is generally well-tolerated with minimal discomfort. Most individuals can resume normal activities shortly after treatment.

Following the guidance of a qualified vein specialist helps ensure the best results and supports a smooth recovery. Any recommendations for care after the procedure will be tailored to your individual needs.

Results You Can Expect 

This procedure often produces visible improvements in the appearance of small, superficial veins. Individuals may experience:

• Reduced appearance of spider veins
  
  
• Relief from mild leg discomfort or swelling
  
  
• Improved self-confidence due to cosmetic results
  
  
• Minimal disruption to daily activities

Multiple sessions may be required depending on vein size, location, and the patient’s response. Follow-up evaluations ensure results are progressing as expected.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

1. How does the procedure work?
A small needle injects a solution into visible veins, causing them to collapse and gradually fade.

2. Is the procedure painful?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort, such as pinching or stinging.

3. Can all visible veins be treated with this procedure?
It is most effective for surface veins. Deeper or larger veins may require ultrasound guidance.

4. How long does it take to see results?
Results are typically gradual, with visible improvement occurring over time as treated veins fade.

5. Will treated veins come back?
Treated veins do not return, but new veins can form over time. Regular follow-up and vein care help maintain results.

Restore Comfort and Confidence

Visual sclerotherapy is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive treatment for visible spider and varicose veins. Patients can experience reduced discomfort and clearer, healthier-looking legs. If visible veins are affecting comfort or confidence, consider a consultation to discuss a personalized vein treatment St. Louis and determine the best approach.

Sheen Vein (Aesthetics and Functional Medicine)
11144 Tesson Ferry Rd #100, St. Louis, MO 63123
sheenveinandcosmetics.com

Take the Next Step in Vein Care

1. Book Appointment – Arrange a convenient time to discuss a personalized treatment plan.
   
   
2. Contact Now – Contact the clinic to ask questions or learn more about treatment options.

‍