Sclerotherapy for Spider Veins and Reticular Veins — Tel Aviv
✓ Key Facts — Sclerotherapy
- Session time: 30 minutes
- No anesthesia required
- Immediate return to normal activity
- From ₪1,500 per session
- Multiple sessions may be needed (typically 1–3)
- Suitable for spider veins, reticular veins, and small varicosities
Written & Reviewed By
Dr. Shimon Aronhime — Interventional Radiologist and Endovascular Surgeon
Trained at Mount Sinai and Columbia University / NYP Hospital, New York
Shamir Medical Center | Israel Vein Center, Lilienblum 17, Tel Aviv
Last reviewed: May 2026
What Veins Are Treated with Sclerotherapy?
- Spider veins (telangiectasias) — Small networks of red-purple capillaries 0.1–2mm in diameter. The classic “spider veins” seen on calves and thighs.
- Reticular veins — Larger than spider veins but smaller than varicose veins — typically green-blue, 2–4mm. They often feed spider veins and should be treated first.
- Residual varicosities — Small branches remaining after RFA or VenaSeal, or varicosities not requiring treatment of the main saphenous trunk.
Before Sclerotherapy: Why Duplex Ultrasound Matters
Spider veins are sometimes purely cosmetic — and sometimes a visible sign of underlying venous insufficiency. You cannot distinguish between the two by appearance alone. This is why every initial consultation at Israel Vein Center includes a duplex ultrasound to check for underlying saphenous reflux. If venous insufficiency is found, treating it first (with RFA or VenaSeal) significantly improves sclerotherapy outcomes and reduces the total number of sessions needed.
What to Expect During Treatment
- Session duration: 30–45 minutes
- Injections: Very fine needle, brief mild sting per injection
- After treatment: Compression stockings for 24–48 hours, walking encouraged, avoid direct sun exposure and hot baths for one week
- Return to activity: Immediate — you leave and resume normal activity
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
Most patients with moderate spider veins (CEAP C1, without underlying venous insufficiency) need 2–4 sessions for complete clearance. More extensive veins, residual veins after RFA/VenaSeal, or those with previously treated venous insufficiency may require a different number of sessions. Dr. Aronhime assesses progress at each follow-up visit and recommends additional sessions as needed.
Treatment Cost
Aesthetic sclerotherapy at Israel Vein Center: ₪1,500 per session, including duplex ultrasound. Initial consultation including duplex ultrasound: ₪1,300.
Frequently Asked Questions — Sclerotherapy
How many sessions will I need?
2–4 sessions for most patients with moderate spider veins. More extensive veins or those associated with venous insufficiency may require more sessions after primary treatment with RFA/VenaSeal.
Does sclerotherapy hurt?
A mild, brief burning sensation during each injection — well tolerated without anesthesia. Most patients return to full activity immediately after the session.
When will I see results?
Spider veins begin to fade within 3–6 weeks. Final results are visible at 3–4 months. Progress is assessed at follow-up visits and additional sessions are scheduled as needed.
What is the difference between liquid and foam sclerotherapy?
Foam contacts a larger area of the vessel wall and is more effective for larger reticular veins and small varicosities. For fine spider veins, standard liquid sclerosant is sufficient. Dr. Aronhime chooses the appropriate form based on the vessel characteristics.
Do spider veins come back after sclerotherapy?
Treated vessels are permanently closed. New spider veins can develop over time due to genetic factors — this is not treatment failure but the natural course of the disease. Annual maintenance sessions are common for patients with a strong family history.
How much does sclerotherapy cost?
₪1,500 per session, including duplex ultrasound.
Is sclerotherapy covered by health insurance?
Cosmetic sclerotherapy for spider veins is generally not covered. If performed as part of treatment for documented venous insufficiency, partial coverage may apply — check with your health fund.
What should I do before and after treatment?
Before: avoid moisturizer or lotion on your legs on the day of treatment. After: wear compression stockings for 24–48 hours, walk regularly, avoid direct sun exposure and hot baths for one week.
Book a spider vein consultation: 073-3744040
Contact Israel Vein Center | Spider Veins (Hebrew) | All Treatments
Treatment Comparison
| Treatment | Duration | Anesthesia | Recovery | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RFA | 45–60 min | Local | Next day | Private insurance |
| VenaSeal | 30–45 min | Minimal | Immediate | ₪15,000 |
| Sclerotherapy | 30 min | None | Immediate | From ₪1,500 |