Spider or varicose veins are more prevalent than you might think. Genes, lifestyle, and hormones can all play a role in vein issues. According to the American Heart Association, about 80-85% of adults in the United States have chronic vein issues. One of the most common questions we hear at Vein Clinic of Greater Kansas City is, “How long will it take for my problem veins to go away?” While everyone reacts differently to treatment depending on several factors, we have some average timelines for you.
Sclerotherapy for Spider Veins (3-5 Treatments)
Sclerotherapy is a common treatment for spider veins. Spider veins tend to be small and just under the surface of the skin. With sclerotherapy, a doctor injects a solution into the small vessels. This solution irritates the vessel lining causing it to collapse. The body slowly reabsorbs the damaged vein and it disappears. With each session, you can expect about 30-40% of the injected veins to shrink. Moderate spider veins typically require three-to-five treatments. More than 90% respond well to sclerotherapy and the treated veins will not reappear, however, new veins could pop up over time.
Radiofrequency Vein Ablation for Varicose Veins (Several weeks)
Radiofrequency vein ablation is minimally invasive and very effective. Radio-frequency energy carefully heats and seals the vein wall. Your body will redirect blood through healthy veins and absorb the closed vein. Most patients experience symptom relief in a week and it may take several weeks for the vein to be completely reabsorbed and disappear. In severe cases, additional therapy might be needed.
Phlebectomy for Varicose Veins (Immediate with small incisions)
Despite the name, phlebectomy is also minimally invasive. The doctor makes small punctures in the skin to gently remove the vein. Because the vein is physically removed, it disappears immediately. Luckily, symptom relief is nearly immediate as well. It may take a week or two for the small incisions to heal completely. You only need minimal downtime, but we do recommend you take it easy and wear a compression sock for a few weeks after treatment. Your doctor will go over specifics at your appointment.
Personalized Care
We understand that every body is different. We will work with you to find your best treatment option and answer any questions.