Common indication
Leg thread veins
Fine clusters on the thighs or lower legs are the main reason people seek microsclerotherapy. We look at the size, pattern and any larger veins feeding the area.
Doctor-led injectables
Microsclerotherapyin Colchester
A targeted injection treatment for small visible thread veins on the legs. We assess the veins first to decide whether microsclerotherapy, laser or a vascular referral is the right approach.
Book a leg vein consultationThe treatment
What is microsclerotherapy?
Microsclerotherapy is a form of sclerotherapy for small leg veins. At our clinic, we use Fibrovein, a prescription sclerosing solution containing sodium tetradecyl sulfate. Using a fine needle, it is injected into suitable thread veins. It acts on the vein lining so the treated vessel closes. The body gradually clears it and its appearance may fade over the following weeks and months.
It is commonly used for fine red, blue or purple veins on the legs. The visible network may include different vein sizes, so treatment is planned after examining the area.
At a glance
A gradual result
Treatment: A series of small injections into selected leg veins.
Comfort: Brief pinpricks or stinging are possible.
Afterwards: Walking is usually encouraged; compression may be advised.
Result: Treated veins can take weeks to months to fade.
Important: Larger varicose veins and symptomatic venous disease need a different assessment and may require a vascular specialist.
01 / Suitability
Which veins can we assess?
Not every visible vessel is best treated with an injection.
Alternative
Very fine surface vessels
Some vessels may be better suited to a vascular laser. Dr Yash can discuss which approach is appropriate for the colour, depth and location of your veins.
Further assessment
Bulging or symptomatic veins
Aching, swelling, skin changes or prominent varicose veins may indicate an underlying circulation problem. A vascular assessment or ultrasound may be needed before cosmetic treatment.
Different area
Facial veins
Microsclerotherapy is generally not the approach used for small facial veins. We assess facial vessels separately and may recommend an appropriate laser treatment.
Assessment first: Tell us about previous vein treatments, pregnancy, medicines, any history of clotting, and leg pain or swelling. We will explain if another service is more appropriate.
02 / Your plan
How many appointments will I need?
The number depends on how many veins you want treated and how each area responds.
Treatment course
Often more than one session
A small cluster may need fewer appointments than extensive networks on both legs. We work within safe treatment limits and review the response before treating the area again.
Cost: The proposed sessions, review and any compression garments are discussed before treatment.
Results
Allow time to fade
Veins can appear darker or more noticeable at first. Improvement usually becomes clearer over several weeks, and some areas may take a few months. Existing treated veins may fade, while new thread veins can develop later.
Expectations: Complete clearance in one session cannot be promised.
03 / Treatment & recovery
What should I expect?
Dr Yash will explain the injection solution, aftercare and risks for your individual plan.
During treatment
Does it hurt?
The fine needle feels like small pinpricks. There may be brief stinging or a mild burning sensation as a vein is injected.
Immediately after
Walking and compression
You can usually walk straight after treatment. Compression hosiery or dressings may be advised for a period set out in your aftercare instructions.
Visible recovery
Bruising and colour changes
Small bruises, redness, tenderness or darkening along treated veins are possible. Brown staining or very fine new vessels can occasionally persist longer.
Safety
When to seek advice
Rare complications include allergy, skin injury or a blood clot. Contact the clinic about unexpected or worsening symptoms; sudden marked leg swelling, chest pain or breathlessness need urgent medical assessment.
Helpful answers
Microsclerotherapy FAQs
Is microsclerotherapy the same as sclerotherapy?
Microsclerotherapy is the small-vein form of sclerotherapy, generally used for leg thread veins. Other forms of sclerotherapy are used for larger veins and involve a different assessment and technique.
Which solution do you use?
We use Fibrovein (sodium tetradecyl sulfate). Dr Yash will explain the appropriate strength, how it is used and any relevant risks or reasons it may not be suitable during your consultation.
How long before I see a result?
Thread veins usually fade gradually over several weeks. Some take a few months, and the treated area may look darker before it looks better.
Will I need compression stockings?
They may be recommended after injection treatment. We will explain the type and duration for your particular procedure before your appointment.
Can the veins come back?
Treated veins may fade, but some need another session and new thread veins can appear over time. Further treatment may be wanted in the future.
Can you treat my varicose veins too?
Prominent or symptomatic varicose veins need separate assessment, and sometimes ultrasound or specialist vascular treatment. Microsclerotherapy for fine thread veins is not a substitute for this.
Is laser or microsclerotherapy better for me?
That depends on the vessel's size, depth, colour and location. We will assess the area and discuss the appropriate option, including laser where suitable.
Start with an assessment
Looking to reduce visible leg thread veins?
Dr Yash will examine the veins, explain your treatment options and outline the likely course, recovery and costs.
Book a leg vein consultation ↗