Microsclerotherapy for thread veins in Maidenhead

Clinical overview

Microsclerotherapy involves the injection of a sclerosant solution directly into visible thread veins and spider veins on the legs using a very fine needle. The sclerosant irritates the vein lining, causing it to collapse, seal shut and gradually fade over the following weeks. This treatment is widely regarded as the standard approach for superficial leg thread veins (telangiectasias) and small spider veins. It is not designed for larger varicose veins, which may require assessment by a vascular specialist. Each session takes approximately 20–40 minutes. Most patients require 1–3 sessions depending on the number and distribution of veins. No anaesthesia is needed — patients typically experience only a mild stinging sensation during injection. Compression stockings are worn for up to one week after treatment to support the treated veins and optimise results. Suitability is confirmed during consultation, where we assess the extent and type of your veins, medical history, any underlying venous issues and whether microsclerotherapy is the most appropriate treatment for your concern.

Key Benefits

• Established treatment for thread veins and spider veins on the legs
• Precise sclerosant injection targets individual visible veins
• Quick procedure — each session takes approximately 20–40 minutes
• No anaesthesia required (mild stinging sensation only)
• Treated veins gradually fade over the following weeks

Suitable For

• Visible thread veins (telangiectasias) or spider veins on the legs
• Patients who want to reduce the appearance of superficial leg veins
• Those who have been advised that their veins are suitable for sclerotherapy (not varicose veins)
• People who are comfortable wearing compression stockings for up to one week after treatment
• Patients in general good health with no significant underlying venous disease

Not Suitable For

• Large varicose veins (these require specialist vascular assessment)
• Active deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or a history of recurrent DVT
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Active infection or inflammation in the legs
• Known allergy to sclerosant agents (discussed during consultation)

Final suitability is confirmed during a medical consultation and assessment.

When we don't recommend it

• If veins are varicose rather than thread/spider veins — larger varicose veins require specialist vascular assessment and treatment, and we will advise accordingly.
• If there is a history of DVT or significant venous disease — microsclerotherapy may not be safe and we will discuss appropriate alternatives or referral.
• If you are unable to wear compression stockings after treatment — compression is important for optimal results and recovery.
• If expectations are for immediate disappearance of veins — treated veins fade gradually over weeks and some may require more than one session.
• If the veins are caused by an underlying condition that should be investigated first — we may recommend further assessment before proceeding with cosmetic treatment.

What Happens During Treatment

1. 1Clinical consultation and assessment of your leg veins, including their size, distribution and type
2. 2Discussion of expected outcomes, number of sessions likely required, limitations and risks
3. 3The sclerosant solution is injected into targeted veins using a very fine needle — you may feel a mild stinging sensation
4. 4Each session treats multiple veins and takes approximately 20–40 minutes
5. 5Compression stockings are applied after treatment — you are advised to walk immediately and stay active

Downtime & Aftercare

• Wear compression stockings as instructed (typically up to one week)
• Walking is encouraged immediately after treatment — stay active to support circulation
• Avoid heavy exercise, prolonged standing and hot baths for 2–3 days
• Mild bruising, redness or tenderness at injection sites is normal and settles over days
• If you notice unexpected or worsening symptoms, contact the clinic for advice

Results Timeline

• Treated veins do not disappear immediately — they gradually fade over 4–8 weeks.
• Most patients require 1–3 sessions depending on the number and distribution of veins.
• Final results are assessed at a follow-up appointment, with additional sessions arranged if needed.

Individual results vary. View our results and photography standards

Risks & Side Effects

Common, Usually Temporary

• •Mild stinging during injection (temporary and well tolerated)
• •Bruising at injection sites (settles within days to weeks)
• •Temporary redness or tenderness along treated veins

Frequently Asked Questions