What's the recovery like for Sclerotherapy?

Everything you need to know about Sclerotherapy recovery — timeline, tips, what to avoid, and when to call your provider.

Typical downtime: Minimal downtime — but expect bruising and weeks of fading

Recovery timeline

Day of

Mild redness, raised welts, or bruising at injection sites, plus possible itching or cramping. You will walk immediately and usually wear compression stockings. Normal activities resume the same day.

Days 1-7

Bruising and small lumps along the treated veins are normal. Treated veins may briefly look darker or more visible before they fade. Keep moving and wear compression as directed.

Weeks 2-6

Veins gradually fade as the body absorbs them. Some brown staining along the vein can appear and usually clears over months.

Months 1-3

Full clearance shows. Larger veins or dense areas may need a second session.

Things nobody tells you

Treated veins often look darker or more obvious for a week or two before they fade — it gets worse-looking before it gets better.
Brown staining along the vein can linger for months; sun on your legs makes it worse, so cover or SPF them.
Compression stockings are not optional — they meaningfully improve the result and cut down on staining.
A hot, swollen, painful calf is the one red flag to never ignore, as it can signal a clot.

Recovery tips

Walk regularly to keep blood flowing through healthy veins
Wear compression stockings exactly as long as advised
Be patient — full fading takes weeks to months
Use SPF on treated legs to limit brown staining

What to avoid

Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and high-impact workouts for a few days
Hot baths, saunas, and hot tubs for 1 to 2 weeks
Long flights or prolonged sitting right after treatment
Sun exposure on treated legs, which worsens staining

When to call your provider

A hot, swollen, painful calf (possible blood clot) — seek care urgently
Spreading redness, warmth, or fever (infection)
Skin ulceration or a dark spot that breaks down at an injection site
Severe or worsening pain rather than mild soreness

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Frequently asked questions

Why do my veins look darker right after sclerotherapy?

Treated veins can look darker or bruised at first as they react to the solution, then fade gradually over weeks to months. This is expected.

How long do I have to wear compression stockings?

Most providers advise compression for several days up to two weeks, which improves results and reduces staining. Follow your provider's specific guidance.