Introduction

Varicose veins affect millions of people worldwide and are more than just a cosmetic concern—they can signal underlying circulatory problems. These bulging, twisted veins usually appear on the legs and are caused by weakened or damaged valves in the veins that allow blood to pool rather than flow efficiently back to the heart. While not always painful, varicose veins can cause heaviness, swelling, and aching.

Sclerotherapy has emerged as a highly effective, minimally invasive treatment option for managing both varicose veins and smaller spider veins. It involves injecting a special solution directly into the vein, causing it to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body over time. Patients often choose this method because it doesn’t require surgery or lengthy recovery.

Globally, sclerotherapy is widely practiced and endorsed by vascular specialists due to its safety and success rate. It’s commonly used in both private clinics and hospital outpatient settings, making it accessible to a wide range of patients.

At Charm Vascular Clinic, patients can expect world-class care for varicose veins, backed by years of experience and advanced technology. The clinic’s tailored approach ensures that each patient receives optimal treatment for their condition.

What is Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a time-tested, minimally invasive medical procedure designed to treat abnormal or damaged veins—most commonly spider veins and smaller varicose veins. The term comes from the Greek word “skleros,” meaning hard, referring to the hardening and eventual closure of the targeted vein. It is one of the oldest and most widely performed vein treatments, with modern advances making it safer and more effective than ever before.

The core of the treatment involves injecting a sclerosant, a specialized chemical solution, directly into the affected vein using a fine needle. This solution causes irritation to the endothelium, the inner lining of the vein, which leads to inflammation and subsequent collapse of the vein walls. The vein closes off, and over time, it turns into fibrotic tissue that is gradually reabsorbed by the body.

How It Works in the Body

Once the treated vein collapses, blood is naturally rerouted to nearby healthy veins, improving overall circulation. This process not only relieves physical symptoms such as aching, cramping, fatigue, and leg heaviness but also improves cosmetic appearance by reducing visible blue, purple, or red veins under the skin.

The body typically starts breaking down the closed vein within days, but full visual results may take several weeks to become apparent. In most cases, the treated veins fade significantly or disappear completely.

Types of Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy can be tailored to the patient’s specific needs, and several forms of the procedure exist:

• Liquid Sclerotherapy: Ideal for treating very fine spider veins near the skin surface.

• Foam Sclerotherapy: The sclerosant is mixed with air or gas to form a foam, allowing it to better displace blood in larger veins and provide longer contact with the vein wall.

• Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy: Used for deeper, non-visible veins. Ultrasound imaging helps guide the needle to the precise location for accurate injection.

Each method has specific benefits and is chosen based on vein size, location, and severity.

Who Benefits from Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is typically recommended for:

• Spider veins (telangiectasia)

• Reticular veins (blue veins)

• Smaller varicose veins

• Residual veins after other treatments like EVLA or RFA

Patients who seek treatment for cosmetic reasons often choose sclerotherapy for its ability to enhance the appearance of the legs. Those suffering from discomfort, swelling, or itching also benefit, as the procedure alleviates symptoms related to venous reflux.

Who is a Candidate for Sclerotherapy?

Not everyone with varicose or spider veins is an ideal candidate for sclerotherapy. Generally, the procedure is best suited for individuals with mild to moderate varicose veins or visible spider veins. It’s especially effective for those who have already tried conservative treatments, such as wearing compression stockings or elevating their legs, without sufficient relief.

To determine eligibility, patients undergo a detailed evaluation, including medical history and diagnostic imaging like duplex ultrasound. This ensures that deeper venous issues, such as chronic venous insufficiency or deep vein thrombosis (DVT), are ruled out or addressed first.

Certain individuals—such as pregnant women, people with clotting disorders, or those allergic to sclerosant agents—may be advised to delay or avoid sclerotherapy. Additionally, patients with large, bulging varicose veins may benefit more from alternative treatments like endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) or VenaSeal™.

At Charm Vascular Clinic, Dr. Insoo Park and his expert team perform comprehensive pre-treatment assessments to ensure that each patient receives the most appropriate and effective vein treatment.

How to Prepare for Sclerotherapy

Proper preparation is essential for achieving the best possible outcome from your sclerotherapy procedure. The preparation process starts with a consultation at Charm Vascular Clinic, where you’ll meet with a vein specialist to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals. A key part of this evaluation is a duplex ultrasound scan, which provides a detailed map of your vein structure and blood flow. This diagnostic tool helps ensure that the root cause of your vein issues is accurately identified and treated.

Several days before your appointment, you may be advised to avoid certain medications, such as aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or blood thinners, as they can increase the risk of bruising or bleeding. Always inform your provider about any prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, or supplements you’re taking.

On the day of your procedure, avoid applying lotions, oils, or creams to your legs. These substances can interfere with the sterility of the treatment area. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing—shorts or a skirt are ideal, as they allow easy access to the legs. Bring your compression stockings with you, as these will be applied immediately after the treatment to support healing and reduce swelling.

Eating a light meal beforehand and staying well-hydrated will help you feel more comfortable during and after the procedure. Plan to walk for about 15–30 minutes after treatment, so it’s wise to arrange your schedule accordingly.

At Charm Vascular Clinic, your comfort and safety are top priorities. You’ll receive personalized, easy-to-follow pre-treatment instructions and have the opportunity to ask questions so you feel fully prepared and confident on the day of your procedure.

Common Side Effects and Complications

Although sclerotherapy is a safe and minimally invasive procedure, understanding potential side effects can help you feel more prepared. Most side effects are mild and temporary, and they are a normal part of the healing process.

Common side effects include:

• Bruising at the injection sites

• Redness or irritation on the skin

• Raised, itchy areas resembling mosquito bites

• Temporary skin discoloration (hyperpigmentation) along the vein’s path

• Matting, which refers to the appearance of fine red blood vessels near the treated area

These effects typically resolve within a few days to a few weeks. Skin discoloration may take up to several months to fade completely, but it usually improves on its own.

Less common, but possible complications include:

• Allergic reaction to the sclerosant (rare, but serious if it occurs)

• Ulceration at the injection site

• Trapped blood in the treated vein, which may need to be drained

• Superficial thrombophlebitis, or inflammation of the vein

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) — extremely rare in sclerotherapy but more serious

At Charm Vascular Clinic, rigorous safety protocols are followed to prevent these complications. Dr. Insoo Park and his team utilize high-precision ultrasound imaging and FDA-approved sclerosants to ensure safe and effective treatment. Patients are monitored closely during and after the procedure, with clear instructions on when to contact the clinic if anything unusual arises.

How Long Does Sclerotherapy Last?

Sclerotherapy offers long-lasting results, but its duration varies depending on several individual factors. Treated veins do not return, as they are permanently closed off and absorbed by the body. However, the development of new varicose or spider veins is still possible over time, particularly in individuals with underlying venous insufficiency or genetic predisposition.

The effectiveness and longevity of sclerotherapy are strongly influenced by post-treatment care. Wearing compression stockings as recommended helps support vein closure and reduce recurrence. Additionally, adopting a healthy lifestyle—maintaining a balanced weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing—can significantly reduce the risk of future vein issues.

For some patients, especially those with mild vein disease, a single session may provide long-lasting results for years. Others may require periodic maintenance treatments every 12 to 24 months to address new or residual veins.

Charm Vascular Clinic encourages routine follow-up appointments to assess your vein health and recommend maintenance therapies when needed. Their commitment to long-term care ensures that your results are maintained and that you receive timely interventions should new veins develop.

Sclerotherapy vs. Other Vein Treatments

While sclerotherapy is a powerful and versatile treatment, it’s important to understand how it compares to other modern vein therapies. Choosing the right option depends on vein size, depth, symptoms, and underlying vein disease.

Sclerotherapy is typically recommended for:

• Superficial spider veins

• Small-to-moderate varicose veins

• Patients seeking non-surgical treatment with minimal downtime

Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) and Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) use thermal energy to seal off larger varicose veins. These procedures are often used for veins with more significant reflux or bulging and are performed under local anesthesia with ultrasound guidance.

VenaSeal™ is a cutting-edge treatment that uses a medical adhesive to close problematic veins. It offers the advantage of no post-procedure compression stocking requirement and minimal bruising, making it a preferred option for patients with sensitivity to heat or multiple vein segments needing treatment.

Comparative summary:

TreatmentBest ForDowntimeCompression NeededInvasivenessSclerotherapySpider/small varicose veinsNoneYesMinimally invasiveEVLA/RFAModerate-to-large varicose veins1–2 daysYesMinimally invasiveVenaSeal™Large veins/multiple segmentsNoneNoMinimally invasive

At Charm Vascular Clinic, all treatment options are available under one roof, and the decision is made based on a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation. Dr. Insoo Park’s expertise ensures that patients are guided toward the most appropriate and effective therapy for their individual vein condition.

Why Choose Charm Vascular Clinic for Sclerotherapy?

When considering sclerotherapy, choosing the right clinic can make all the difference in your treatment outcome and overall experience. Charm Vascular Clinic, located in Seoul, South Korea, has earned a reputation for excellence in vascular care, especially in minimally invasive procedures like sclerotherapy.

Led by the renowned Dr. Insoo Park, a valedictorian graduate from the Catholic University School of Medicine and a published vascular surgery expert, the clinic combines advanced medical expertise with personalized patient care. Dr. Park and his skilled team perform over 2,000 vascular procedures annually and have successfully treated more than 30,000 patients.

Charm Vascular Clinic uses state-of-the-art equipment and offers the latest advancements in sclerotherapy, including foam-based and ultrasound-guided techniques for greater precision. The clinic also ensures patient comfort with modern amenities, bilingual support, and a compassionate staff.

As a Center of Excellence for VenaSeal™ and a recipient of numerous industry awards, Charm Vascular Clinic continues to set the benchmark for quality care in vein treatment across South Korea and beyond.

Patient Testimonials and Case Studies

Patients often describe their experience at Charm Vascular Clinic as life-changing—not just because of the cosmetic improvement, but due to the relief from painful and bothersome symptoms. One such patient, a 42-year-old office worker named Ji-eun, struggled with aching and swelling in her legs for years.

After undergoing sclerotherapy at Charm, she reported almost immediate relief and was back at work the next day. “I was afraid it would be painful or complicated,” she says, “but Dr. Park made everything easy to understand, and the staff were so caring.”

Before-and-after photos show a dramatic reduction in visible veins, and her confidence has soared. “I can finally wear skirts again without feeling self-conscious,” she adds.

The clinic regularly monitors and documents such outcomes, demonstrating high success rates and patient satisfaction. Real results, compassionate care, and expert follow-up set Charm Vascular Clinic apart in the field of vascular medicine.

Conclusion

Sclerotherapy remains one of the most trusted, efficient, and minimally invasive treatments for varicose and spider veins worldwide. Its appeal lies in its simplicity, minimal downtime, and high success rate, making it a go-to solution for patients looking to restore both function and appearance in their legs. Whether you are experiencing discomfort, swelling, heaviness, or are simply looking to improve the aesthetic of your skin, sclerotherapy provides an effective pathway to relief.

This procedure not only improves physical symptoms but also has a profound emotional and psychological impact. Many patients report a renewed sense of confidence and comfort in their appearance after treatment. By improving circulation and reducing visible vein damage, sclerotherapy contributes to long-term vascular health and a better quality of life.

The key to successful outcomes lies in choosing a qualified medical team and receiving comprehensive care. From thorough diagnosis and precision injection techniques to supportive post-procedure follow-up, every step must be performed with expertise and attention to detail. That’s why patients from across South Korea—and even international visitors—choose Charm Vascular Clinic.

Under the leadership of Dr. Insoo Park, Charm Vascular Clinic offers unparalleled excellence in vein care. The clinic’s commitment to innovation, safety, and individualized treatment plans ensures that every patient receives the best care possible. With its track record of over 30,000 treated patients and more than 2,000 vascular surgeries each year, the clinic stands as a leader in minimally invasive vascular medicine.