Sclerotherapy for Leg Thread Veins in London

Sclerotherapy / Microsclerotherapy

The Sclerotherapy or Microsclerotherapy procedures used at The London Vein Treatment Centre are designed for fast and effective treatment of thread veins with a minimally invasive procedure. The procedure is most commonly used for treating thread veins on the legs – including thighs, calves, knees and ankles.

It is a proven technique which is highly effective; around (50%-80%) however there are a few contraindications. First and foremost, it is important to get a consultancy with one of our expert doctors or plastic surgeons so that they can assess whether the patient is eligible for the procedure or not.

Microsclerotherapy (Liquid) vs. Foam Sclerotherapy

When you come in for thread vein removal, we choose the right type of injection based on the size and depth of your veins. Often, a combination of both gives the clearest results:

• Microsclerotherapy (Liquid Injections):
  This is the gold standard for tiny, surface-level red or purple thread veins. Using an ultra-fine needle (about the width of an eyelash), we gently infuse a liquid solution to clear these fine clusters.
• Foam Sclerotherapy:
  We use this for larger, deeper blue “feeder” veins (reticular veins). By mixing the treatment liquid with air, it creates a rich consistency like shaving cream. This foam pushes blood out of the way, allowing the solution to stay in direct contact with the vessel wall to close larger veins down effectively.

Why this matters: If a clinic only treats the surface red lines without shutting down the deeper, underlying feeder vein with foam, your thread veins are highly likely to pop right back up within a few months.

How is Sclerotherapy performed?

At the London Vein Treatment Centre, we treat thread veins by injection microsclerotherapy. Our specialist doctors insert a very thin needle into the extremely tiny vein and infuse a chemical that is called sclerosant. Through use of sclerosant, the inside of the vein is damaged, causing it to shrink back so that it is no longer visible at the surface of the skin.

What to expect once Sclerotherapy is performed?

Sclerotherapy is a safe and time proven procedure that causes extremely little or no discomfort at all. It can provide an overall improvement in your thread veins and once the treatment is done the patient can easily go back to their work and normal activities.

Initially patients may be asked to wear stockings in order to keep the treated veins closed and to reduce bruising. Furthermore, you may sense that there are colour changes accompanied with small areas of scarring where the sclerotherapy is performed.

Is this treatment suitable for you?

If you are embarrassed about wearing shorts, dresses, or swimwear due to prominent spider veins on your thighs, calves, knees, or ankles, you are an ideal candidate for this procedure. However, pregnant women, those on birth control pills, and those who have had a history of blood clots are advised against this procedure and may be better advised to consider a laser procedure.