Varicose/Spider Veins

We offer evidence-based, non-surgical treatments for varicose veins and spider veins using liquid and foam sclerotherapy. Whether you’re concerned about bulging, uncomfortable varicose veins or fine red or purple spider veins, our physician-led approach focuses on restoring vein health, improving comfort, and enhancing appearance. 

As part of your consultation, we perform ultrasound-guided venous mapping on all patients to evaluate the underlying vein function and anatomy. This ensures that your treatment plan is safe, effective, and tailored to the root cause—not just the visible symptoms. 

A referral from your primary care provider is required to book a vein consultation. 

What We Treat 

Our vein treatment services are suitable for: 

• Varicose veins – enlarged, twisted, and often painful veins that may bulge under the skin
• Spider veins – thin, visible veins or red/purple vessels on the surface of the skin 
• Reticular veins – medium-sized blue or green veins beneath the skin’s surface 
• Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) – in cases where venous mapping confirms reflux 
• Early symptoms such as heaviness, aching, swelling, or throbbing in the legs 

Our Approach 

Initial Consultation & Ultrasound Mapping: 

• A comprehensive history and physical exam is performed by our physician 
• We perform duplex ultrasound mapping on all patients to assess for venous reflux or deeper vein disease 
• Your treatment plan is tailored based on the ultrasound findings and your goals 
• If significant venous reflux is identified in a vein that cannot be treated at West Kootenay Skin Clinic, we will arrange a referral to a specialized vein center for further management. 

Please note: The consultation and ultrasound mapping are completed during a separate appointment, prior to any treatment. Sclerotherapy is booked as a follow-up appointment after your individualized treatment plan is developed. 

Sclerotherapy Treatment

• Liquid sclerotherapy is used for small to medium spider and reticular veins 
• Foam sclerotherapy is used to treat larger varicose veins, providing more effective vein wall contact 
• Ultrasound guidance may be used during treatment for deeper or more complex veins 
• A sclerosant solution is injected to close the targeted vein, which is then reabsorbed by the body 

What to Expect 

Before Treatment 

• Avoid lotions or self-tanner on the day of treatment 
• Bring your compression stockings to your appointment 
• Wear loose-fitting clothing, hydrate well the day of your treatment, and ensure you have time for a walk immediately afterward 

During Treatment 

• The session typically lasts 30 minutes 
• You may feel minor stinging, cramping, or pressure during injections 
• Multiple veins can often be treated during the same session 

After Treatment 

• Go for a 30-minute walk immediately after treatment. Daily walking or light aerobic activity is encouraged to support healthy circulation and healing. 
• Avoid heavy lifting, high-impact workouts, and high-resistance exercises for the first 36–72 hours, especially if larger veins were treated. 
• Remove cotton balls and tape after 3–4 hours. 
• Wear compression stockings overnight for the first night, then daily for 7 days. You may remove them to bathe but should put them back on right after. Compression is essential to support vein closure and reduce bruising. 
• If traveling for more than 30 minutes, move your feet regularly or stretch your legs every 2 hours. If flying, wear your compression stockings—even after treatment is complete—to minimize swelling or discomfort. 
• Avoid hot baths, hot tubs, yoga, and saunas for 2 weeks. Prolonged heat can reopen treated veins. Short showers and cool baths are fine. 
• Avoid sun exposure and tanning in treated areas for 2–3 weeks to reduce the risk of skin darkening or pigmentation. Use SPF 30 or higher if sun exposure is unavoidable. 
• Bruising, redness, and temporary firmness at the injection sites are common and typically resolve on their own. 

Results & Recovery 

• Smaller veins typically improve over 3–6 weeks, while larger veins may take 3–6 months 
• Multiple sessions may be required for optimal results 
• Once closed, veins do not return, but new veins may form over time, especially if deeper venous reflux exists 
• Follow-up ultrasounds may be recommended for monitoring 
• Some discomfort or tenderness is common after treatment, but it generally improves with walking, compression, and time. If you experience worsening pain, redness, or swelling, please contact the clinic. 

Not Suitable If You 

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding 
• Have an active infection or skin inflammation in the treatment area 
• Have a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or certain clotting disorders (unless cleared by your physician) 
• Cannot walk regularly or wear compression stockings after treatment 
• Are allergic to the sclerosant ingredients used in sclerotherapy (we will assess this during consultation) 

Pricing & Booking 

A referral from your primary care provider is required to book a vein consultation. 

Once received, our team will contact you to schedule your initial assessment, which includes a comprehensive clinical evaluation and ultrasound vein mapping for all patients 

Billing Information for BC Residents 

For residents of British Columbia, the healthcare system covers up to 6 sclerotherapy treatments (3 per leg) per 12-month period if the treatment is deemed to be for medical reasons (e.g., symptomatic or functionally impairing veins). These treatments are billed to MSP when a valid referral is in place. 

We will do our best to complete your treatment within the allotted number of sessions. However, if you have extensive vein disease, additional sessions may be needed. In this case, you may: 

• Wait until your annual MSP coverage resets, or 
• Choose to proceed with privately billed cosmetic vein treatments 

Fees Associated with Treatment 

While the sclerotherapy procedure may be covered under MSP (if medically necessary), additional fees apply, including: 

• Consultation Ultrasound Fee: A $95 ultrasound fee applies to all patients at the time of consultation. 
• Setup/Medication Fee: A $95 fee per session is charged to cover the cost of the sclerosant medication and treatment setup. This fee may be reimbursed by extended medical plans. 
• Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy (UGFS): If ultrasound is used during the injection process (often required for deeper veins), an additional fee applies. This will be reviewed with you during your consultation. 
• Compression Stockings: A vital part of your recovery. Medical-grade stockings are available for purchase at the clinic and are typically worn for at least one week after each session. 

Transparent Pricing Promise 

We believe in no surprises. During your initial consultation, you’ll receive: 

• A full ultrasound evaluation and diagnosis 
• A clear explanation of what is covered under MSP and what is not 
• A personalized treatment plan with a written quote for any out-of-pocket costs