A Patient’s Guide to Aesthetic and Health Concerns
Prof. Kittipan Rerkasem
Leg Vein Clinic Thailand
As people age, the veins in their hands often become more prominent. This can make the hands appear older, especially in women who are concerned with aesthetics. One increasingly popular solution is sclerotherapy—injecting a special medication into the vein to make it disappear. But is it really safe?
This article explains why hand veins become prominent, how sclerotherapy works, and what risks to be aware of, so you can make an informed decision.
Why Do Hand Veins Become Prominent?
– Aging: Thinner skin and reduced subcutaneous fat make veins more visible.
– Genetics and Body Structure: Some people naturally have prominent hand veins, even in youth.
– Physical Activity: Heavy hand use or weightlifting can enlarge veins.
– Health Conditions: Rarely, central venous obstruction may cause venous backup into arm veins.
Image show prominent hand veins
How Does Sclerotherapy Work?
Sclerotherapy involves injecting a special solution into the targeted vein, causing the vein wall to collapse and eventually be reabsorbed by the body. This is a controlled process similar to what may happen naturally when a vein becomes inflamed after IV therapy—but here it is done intentionally by a trained physician.
Is It Safe?
– Only non-essential veins are treated.
– Typically, only 1–2 veins per hand are treated in one session.
– The medication is highly localized and does not affect surrounding veins.
– Trained physicians use precise doses, concentrations, and technique.
Possible Side Effects
Like any medical procedure, there may be mild side effects:
– Temporary bruising or swelling (1–2 weeks)
– Temporary cord-like vein firmness (1–3 months)
– Mild pain similar to a blood draw
– Brown pigmentation (rare in hands due to high venous return and low gravity)
Comparison to Leg Vein Sclerotherapy
– Leg veins: Higher risk of brown pigmentation due to higher pressure and gravity.
– Hand veins: Lower risk due to proximity to the heart and better circulation.
Image shows left image is before treatment and right image is after treatment
Post-Treatment Care
– Wear light compression gloves after injection.
– Avoid squeezing or heavy lifting for 1–2 days.
– Use cold compress if bruising appears.
– Attend follow-ups; some cases may require additional injections.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will it affect future IV or blood draws?
A: No. Only cosmetic veins are treated; essential veins remain untouched.
Q: How many sessions are needed?
A: Often just one. Some may require a second session based on vein size/number.
Q: Is it painful?
A: Similar to a blood draw, with minor post-injection tightness.
Q: Is there downtime?
A: Minimal. Most resume daily activities immediately.
Conclusion
Sclerotherapy for hand veins is a relatively safe, effective treatment when performed by a qualified physician. It can improve hand appearance without affecting overall health. Consulting with a vascular expert and following post-care instructions ensures optimal, beautiful, and safe outcomes.