What is Microsclerotherapy?

Microsclerotherapy is the gold standard approach to minimise the appearance of small visible leg veins known as spider veins (telangectasia or reticular veins). Using a very fine needle, a small amount of solution known as a ‘sclerosant’ is injected into the vein. This causes the vein to collapse and, with the assistance of compression stockings, is absorbed by the body’s natural healing response, fading over time.

What should I expect?

On arrival to Rewa Aesthetics Queanbeyan, we will complete some forms including discussing and signing a consent form. You will change into a hospital gown to allow full access to your legs, (or wear shorts or a skirt!). We will have a good chat prior to commencing treatment with opportunity to ask any further questions. I will ask you to point out the most troublesome veins, or the ones that bother you the most. We will begin with them but attempt to inject any/or all visible spider veins. I will continue to treat the your veins for approx 45-60mins. The treatment usually involves a lot of needle-pokes, but is usually very well tolerated. After completion I will put your compression stockings on for you and ensure they fit properly. Typically 2 or 3 sessions may be required, although some patients are happy with the reduction achieved in 1 session. Some patients who are very prone to spider veins may require on going yearly treatments. Risks and side effects are present with all treatments. Bruising, swelling, prolonged haemosiderin staining, itching or irritation can occur. There are some very rare side effects which will be discussed in depth at your consultation.

Do I need to prepare?

A comprehensive consultation prior to treatment is required to insure you are a good candidate for the treatment. Consultations cost $50 which is non-refundable. This allows me to measure you for compression stockings and, should we not have your custom size in stock, allows me to order them in prior to your treatment day. Please note Sigvaris compression stockings are medical grade 2 compression which are required for this treatment to be successful (basic compression/ TED stockings are not suitable). Additional costs apply (currently $180).

The morning of your treatment we ask that you avoid caffeine as this can constrict blood vessels making it harder for me to inject them. Make sure you are well hydrated and have something to eat and drink prior to arrival at your appointment. Please ensure you are well and reschedule if you are sick.

Some autoimmune conditions or clotting disorders will require medical clearance prior to treatment.

Are there aftercare instructions?

Yes. Full aftercare will be discussed on the day. It is vital you follow this advice to have the best outcomes.

Once your compression stockings are fitted on the day you must keep them on for 4 days and 4 nights, without removing at all. After this time you must put your stockings on first thing in the morning and take them off last thing at night for at least three weeks. Longer if you can manage it. Without the compression the vein will not be removed effectively. If you do not think you will be able to commit to the wearing the compression stockings as prescribed then I would recommend you do not have the treatment. It sounds harsh, but it really is that important.
Other aftercare involves avoiding heavy lifting for 4 to 6 weeks after treatment. Avoiding jogging, running, aerobics, pump etc for 2 weeks. These activities increase pressure in the veins and essentially undo the treatment. For infections control reasons avoid swimming for 2 weeks.

What is the cost?

Consultations are $50. This confirms your appointment and is non-refundable.

Each treatment costs $650 which is not claimable on Medicare.
You may need more than one treatment. Some spider veins may require several. Some of the very small veins, which are smaller than the diameter of my smallest needle, may not respond to treatment. New spider veins can form over time. This is not a result of the treatment, but a natural occurrence if you are prone to them.

If it is your first appointment you will require compression stocking (additional cost of $180 per pair applies). These will be sized/fitted to you on the day. We usually stock black and beige but if your preference is unavailable, we can order prior to your treatment date. Please note “TEDs” from the hospital, or compression stockings from a regular chemist do not meet the compression requirements for this treatment to be successful. I recommend Sigvaris brand medical grade 2 compression. As mentioned prior, if you do not already have these you need a consultation before the treatment appointment to allow me to order your size as I only carry limited stock.

Below are some before and after images of what can be achieved with Microsclerotherapy. Please note these images are not my work.