What is Liquid Sclerotherapy?

Varicose veins (varices) are dilated and tortuous veins located under the skin, usually more visible in the lower limbs (in the legs) and are distinguished from telangiectasias, commonly called “spills” or “vascular spiders”, which are smaller vessels .

In addition to representing an important aesthetic problem, the appearance of varicose veins is, in many cases, the first sign of venous insufficiency. This problem affects 1 in 3 Portuguese, being more common in women than in men, whose incidence starts between the ages of 20 and 30 and increases progressively over the following years.

There are several factors associated with the onset of these vascular changes, such as: aging of the venous system, genetic predisposition, pregnancy, overweight, drugs, hormonal changes, autoimmune diseases, vascular diseases, sedentary lifestyle and the habit of spending many hours standing or sitting.

Before the procedure, it is essential to carry out a complete medical evaluation, so that it is possible to select the most suitable type of treatment for each patient.

Through the use of very fine needles, a drug (sclerosing agent) is injected into the vein, causing sclerosis (fibrosis) in the vein, drying it and thus eliminating the small-caliber veins. Sclerotherapy is performed not only for aesthetic reasons but also to improve some of the related symptoms such as pain, swelling and burning. The number of sessions needed will depend on the number and size of the veins to be treated. It is an effective, quick and safe procedure that does not interfere with daily activities and can return to normal life soon after treatment.