What to Do Before and After Sclerotherapy Appointment

What To Do Before Your Sclerotherapy Appointment

One Week Before Treatment

  • Obtain a pair of prescribed compression stockings (20-30mmHg or 30-40mmHg) to wear after your treatment. Wearing compression stockings for at least one week post-treatment improves results and may reduce the number of treatment sessions needed.
  • Avoid tanning and excessive sun exposure for one week before treatment, as UV exposure can increase the risk of hyperpigmentation.
  • If possible, avoid taking iron supplements for one week before and after treatment, as this may help reduce the risk of post-treatment pigmentation.

48 Hours Before Treatment

  • Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements, including aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®), naproxen (Aleve®), vitamin E, fish oil, Ginkgo Biloba, and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These can increase bruising and interfere with treatment effectiveness. If these were prescribed by your physician, stop taking them only with your doctor’s approval.
  • Avoid alcohol and smoking for at least 48 hours before and after treatment, as both can impair circulation and healing.
  • Avoid applying creams, lotions, or moisturizers to your legs the night before and the day of your treatment to ensure a clean surface for the procedure.
  • If you take hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills, be aware that they can be angiogenic and may increase the risk of hyperpigmentation. Discuss any concerns with your provider.

Day of Treatment

  • Shower and wash your legs as usual, but do not apply lotion, sunscreen, or oils.
  • Wear loose-fitting clothing, as the treated areas may be wrapped in an ACE bandage, and tight clothing may not fit comfortably afterward.
  • Bring a pair of shorts to wear during the procedure.
  • Eat a light meal or snack before your appointment to prevent lightheadedness.
  • Avoid intense physical activity before your session, as increased circulation may impact results.
  • Inform your provider of any new medications, recent infections, or health changes that could affect your treatment.

What To Do After Your Sclerotherapy Appointment

First 24 Hours

  • Your legs will be wrapped in an ACE bandage with taped compression pads underneath. Leave these bandages on for the first 24 hours.
  • Walk for 10 to 30 minutes immediately after your treatment to promote circulation and prevent complications.
  • Keep the treated area dry and avoid hot showers, baths, saunas, and steam rooms. If necessary, take a lukewarm shower and pat the treated area dry.
  • Refrain from heavy exercise or standing for long periods. Light walking is encouraged, but avoid high-impact activities.
  • Mild swelling, bruising, or tenderness is normal. Applying cold compresses intermittently can help reduce swelling.

After 24 Hours

  • Remove the ACE bandage and gently remove the taped compression pads before your shower.
  • Wear compression stockings daily for at least 3 days if small red vessels were treated, or 7 days if larger blue veins were treated. The more you wear your compression stockings, the better your results will be, and the number of required treatments may decrease. Do not sleep in your compression stockings.
  • Avoid strenuous activities such as high-impact aerobics, running, or leg exercises for 48-72 hours. You may resume strenuous exercise 5 days after treatment, as long as compression stockings are worn.
  • Avoid hot baths, hot tubs, and long hot showers for at least 2 weeks.
  • Flying should be avoided for at least 48 hours if larger veins were treated.

Long-Term Aftercare and Maintenance

  • Bruising and discoloration are common and may take several weeks to resolve. It is important to avoid sun exposure to the treated areas, as UV exposure can cause hyperpigmentation (skin darkening). Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily and avoid prolonged sun exposure for at least 2 weeks post-treatment.
  • Larger treated veins may appear red, black, hard, or tender. This is a normal part of the healing process, meaning the vein has shut down and is being absorbed by your body. If a closed vein takes longer than 4 weeks to reabsorb, you may schedule a 15-minute session for declotting.
  • Pain is usually minimal and resolves within 1-2 days. If needed, take Tylenol or Extra-Strength Tylenol for mild discomfort. Avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin, as they may increase bruising.
  • If you experience significant pain, redness, swelling, crusting, or bleeding, contact our office immediately.
  • If re-treatment is necessary, previously treated areas may be treated again in 6-8 weeks. Untreated areas may be treated on a weekly basis.

By following these post-treatment instructions, you will support the healing process and achieve the best possible results. If you have any concerns, contact Azure Dream MedSpa for further guidance