Located in San Antonio, TX, Stone Oak Dermatology provides cosmetic and medical dermatology services in a friendly office setting. Christine Workman, MPAS, PA-C, is a board-certified physician assistant and U.S. Air Force veteran with extensive training in aesthetic care. Steven Blakeley, PA-C, is an NCCPA board-certified physician assistant specializing in general and surgical dermatology.
Before Your Sclerotherapy Appointment
Your visit typically begins with an assessment of the veins you’d like treated. We’ll review their size, location, and appearance while asking about your health history, medications, previous vein therapies, and any symptoms you’ve noticed.
Tell your provider about aspirin, ibuprofen, blood thinners, supplements, and other medications you take, since some can affect bruising or your treatment instructions. Don’t stop a prescribed medication unless the clinician managing it tells you to do so.
You may also receive instructions about shaving, applying lotion, or using skincare products near the targeted area. Wearing loose, comfortable clothing can make it easier to access the veins and avoid pressure on the area afterward.
What Happens During Sclerotherapy?
Once you’re comfortably positioned, the treatment area is cleaned. A small needle is then used to inject the sclerosant solution into each selected vein.
You may feel a quick pinch or mild stinging sensation when the needle enters. Some people also notice brief cramping as the solution moves through the vein, but this usually passes within a few minutes.
The number of injections depends on how many veins are being addressed. A sclerotherapy session might take between 15 minutes and an hour, depending on the extent of treatment.
What to Expect Afterward
You’ll generally be encouraged to walk shortly after your session. Gentle movement supports circulation and helps lower the risk of blood clots.
Your provider may ask you to wear compression stockings or another compression garment for five to seven days. You’ll likely need to avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours. For the first 48 hours, you might also be advised to avoid hot baths, saunas, swimming, prolonged heat exposure, and direct sun exposure to the treated area.
Minor swelling, tenderness, bruising, or redness around an injection site can occur. These effects usually improve as the area heals. Seek prompt medical guidance if you develop severe or worsening pain, substantial swelling, an open sore, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or another concerning symptom.
When Will You See Results?
Treated veins don’t disappear immediately. They gradually close, fade, and are absorbed by your body. Some people see improvement after one visit, while others need additional sessions based on the number and size of the veins.
Learn Whether Sclerotherapy Is Right for You
Visible veins don’t have to determine what you feel comfortable wearing. For an evaluation at Stone Oak Dermatology in San Antonio, TX, contact us or call 210-494-0504.
