What Does Trapped Blood Look Like After Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a popular treatment for spider veins and small varicose veins. This simple, minimally invasive procedure involves injecting a solution into the veins, causing them to break down. While the results are usually excellent, it’s important to understand that trapped blood can appear after treatment. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident during your recovery.

Understanding Trapped Blood After Sclerotherapy

Trapped blood is common after sclerotherapy vein therapy. It happens when blood becomes trapped in the treated vein as it closes off.

This is a normal healing process and doesn’t necessarily indicate a complication. Typically, trapped blood looks like small, firm, reddish-brown spots or dark blue lines under the skin. These areas may feel tender to the touch but usually resolve with time or minor intervention.

For a visual reference, you can explore pictures of trapped blood after sclerotherapy to better understand how this temporary side effect might appear.

What Causes Trapped Blood?

When the sclerotherapy injections cause the vein to collapse, residual blood can remain within the closed vein. Over time, your body will naturally absorb the trapped blood.

However, if the trapped blood persists or causes discomfort, your healthcare provider may recommend draining it with a small needle. This procedure is quick and helps speed up the healing process.

How Long Does Trapped Blood Last?

For most patients, trapped blood after sclerotherapy resolves on its own within a few weeks. In some cases, it may take a few months. Factors that influence recovery time include:

• The size of the treated veins
• Your body’s natural healing process
• Whether additional treatments, such as draining, are necessary

If you’re concerned about lingering discoloration or tenderness, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment at Nu Vela Laser and Vein Center.

How to Differentiate Trapped Blood from a Blood Clot

While trapped blood is a normal part of recovery, it’s important to distinguish it from complications. One common complication is a blood clot after sclerotherapy.

Blood clots, though rare, can occur and require immediate attention. Signs of a blood clot may include:

• Significant swelling
• Severe pain or redness
• Warmth around the affected area

If you experience these symptoms, contact our vein specialists at Nu Vela Laser and Vein Center.

Recovery Tips for Sclerotherapy Vein Treatment

There are recovery tips to minimize the chances of trapped blood after sclerotherapy. You can wear compression stockings, stay active, avoid prolonged sitting or standing, and commit to aftercare instructions.

Wearing compression stockings helps improve circulation and reduce swelling, promoting faster healing. Meanwhile, light walking encourages blood flow and reduces the risk of complications.
Keeping your legs moving prevents blood from pooling in your veins. If your vein specialist provides specific aftercare instructions, follow them consistently to achieve the best results.

When to Consult Your Provider

While trapped blood is harmless, it’s always a good idea to consult your vein specialist if you have concerns. Some signs that may warrant a follow-up include persistent discoloration or tenderness, large, firm areas of trapped blood, and unusual symptoms, such as significant pain or swelling.

We offer sclerotherapy treatment in Los Angeles, CA, to those seeking expert vein care. Our Nu Vela Laser and Vein Center team is here to answer your questions and guide you through recovery.

Additional Sclerotherapy Options

Sclerotherapy isn’t limited to leg and spider vein treatment. It can also address other areas, such as chest veins. Learn more about sclerotherapy for chest veins and how it can help you achieve smoother, healthier-looking skin.

We also offer specialized spider and reticular vein treatment for those struggling with spider and reticular veins.

If you’re considering this treatment, take a look at sclerotherapy before and after photos to see real results achieved by our patients.

Schedule a Consultation

Ready to improve your vein health and appearance? Schedule your sclerotherapy vein treatment today! Smoother, vein-free skin is a treatment away at Nu Vela Laser and Vein Center.