Microsclerotherapy (Leg Vein Treatment)

Microsclerotherapy (Thread Vein Treatment)

Dr Martyn King | Cosmedic Skin Clinic | Staffordshire

Microsclerotherapy is a highly effective medical treatment used to reduce and eliminate thread veins (also known as spider veins) on the legs. These small, visible red, blue, or purple veins are commonly caused by genetics, hormonal changes, pregnancy, prolonged standing, or ageing.

At Cosmedic Skin Clinic, we use Fibrovein (sodium tetradecyl sulfate), a medically proven sclerosing agent, to treat unwanted superficial veins. The treatment works by gently closing the affected veins, which are then naturally reabsorbed by the body over time.

Microsclerotherapy is considered the gold standard treatment for leg thread veins and can significantly improve both cosmetic appearance and confidence.

Summary

• Procedure time: 30–60 minutes
• Downtime: Minimal (normal activity encouraged)
• Discomfort: Mild (small injections)
• Anaesthetic: Not required
• Onset of results: 3–6 weeks
• Peak/final results: 8–12 weeks
• Duration: Long-lasting, but new veins may develop over time
• Maintenance: Usually 2–4 sessions depending on severity

Pricing

• Initial microsclerotherapy session: £295
• Follow-up sessions: From £150

💡 Final treatment plan and pricing depend on the number and extent of thread veins treated.

How it works

Microsclerotherapy involves the injection of a specialised solution (Fibrovein) directly into the affected thread veins using a very fine needle.

The solution works by:

• Irritating the inner lining of the vein
• Causing the vein walls to stick together
• Closing the vein permanently
• Allowing the body to naturally reabsorb the treated vein over time

During treatment:

• The legs are assessed and veins are mapped
• Small injections are placed directly into visible thread veins
• Multiple veins can be treated in a single session
• Compression stockings are usually recommended afterwards

The procedure is generally well tolerated and does not require anaesthetic.

What areas can be treated

Primary Treatment Area

• Legs (thighs, calves, ankles)

Common Vein Types Treated

• Thread veins (spider veins)
• Reticular veins (small blue veins under the skin)
• Superficial vascular networks
• Localised cosmetic vein clusters

Important Note

Microsclerotherapy is not suitable for deep varicose veins, which may require vascular assessment and alternative treatment pathways.

Am I suitable?

You may be suitable if you:

• Have visible thread veins on the legs
• Are in good general health
• Are bothered by the appearance of leg veins
• Do not have significant underlying venous disease

You may not be suitable if you:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) without specialist clearance
• Have a blood clotting disorder or on blood-thinning medication
• Have significant arterial disease
• Have active skin infection or inflammation in the treatment area
• Are unable to wear compression stockings if required
• Have poor mobility or significant obesity

A full clinical assessment is required prior to treatment.

Pre-treatment advice

Before treatment:

• Avoid sunburn or tanning on the legs
• Inform your clinician of any medical history, especially clotting disorders
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing
• Avoid shaving immediately before treatment if skin is irritated

Post-treatment advice

After treatment:

• Wear compression stockings as advised (usually 1 weeks)
• Avoid strenuous exercise for 24–48 hours
• Avoid hot baths, saunas, and steam rooms for several days
• Take regular walking activity to support circulation
• Avoid prolonged standing or sitting where possible
• Protect treated areas from sun exposure

Treated veins may initially appear darker before gradually fading.

Side-effects & complications

Microsclerotherapy is a well-established and generally safe treatment.

Common (temporary):

• Bruising
• Mild swelling
• Temporary redness
• Itching along treated veins
• Skin discolouration (temporary pigmentation)

Less common:

• Matting (fine new surface vessels)
• Persistent pigmentation
• Small lumps along treated veins
• Prolonged bruising

Rare:

• Ulceration (if solution affects surrounding skin)
• Allergic reaction to sclerosant
• Deep vein thrombosis (very rare)
• Nerve irritation

Careful technique and patient selection significantly reduce risks.

Benefits

• Effective removal of thread veins
• Improves appearance of legs
• Minimally invasive treatment
• No surgery required
• Long-lasting results
• Can treat multiple veins in one session
• Quick outpatient procedure
• Improves confidence in wearing skirts, shorts, and swimwear

Advice from Dr Martyn King

Dr Martyn King, Cosmedic Skin Clinic, Staffordshire

"Microsclerotherapy remains the gold standard treatment for thread veins on the legs. Using Fibrovein allows us to precisely target unwanted vessels, leading to predictable and effective results. While new veins may develop over time, the treated veins are permanently closed, making this an excellent option for long-term improvement in leg appearance."