How much does sclerotherapy cost?

Microsclerotherapy for thread and spider veins in the United Kingdom typically costs around 200 to 400 pounds per session as reviewed in June 2026, and most people need two to four sessions for a good result. Foam sclerotherapy for larger veins is priced differently, often several hundred pounds per leg or as part of a wider varicose vein package that can run into the low thousands, so the right figure depends on what you are treating.

What you are paying for

Sclerotherapy injects a sclerosant solution directly into a thread or spider vein, irritating its lining so the vein collapses, closes and is gradually reabsorbed, after which it fades from view. Microsclerotherapy targets the fine surface veins on the legs, while foam sclerotherapy treats larger veins, often under ultrasound guidance.

It suits people troubled by visible thread or spider veins, usually on the legs, who want them less noticeable. A proper assessment first checks whether the veins are purely cosmetic or linked to underlying varicose veins, which changes the plan and the cost.

Your fee covers the consultation, the practitioner, the sclerosant and the session, and often the compression stockings and follow up. Treating larger or more extensive veins, or using ultrasound guidance, costs more than a quick microsclerotherapy session on a small area.

The honest cost picture

Sclerotherapy pricing depends on the type of veins, how extensive they are, how many sessions are needed and whether ultrasound guidance is involved. One or both legs and the clinic setting also shift the figure.

Indicative United Kingdom ranges, reviewed 25 June 2026. These are not quotes. Confirm the current price with the provider.

What drives the price

The extent of the veins is the main factor, since more numerous or larger veins need more solution and more sessions. The technique matters too, as ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy for larger veins costs more than simple microsclerotherapy on surface threads. Whether one or both legs are treated, the practitioner's expertise and the clinic setting all add to the figure.

How cities differ

London and major cities often sit at the higher end, while clinics elsewhere may quote lower headline prices. The useful question is what the price includes, since some clinics bundle the consultation, an ultrasound scan, compression stockings and follow up sessions while others charge each separately. For larger veins, ask whether a scan is needed first, because that assessment shapes both the plan and the total cost.

How it compares to the alternatives

For fine surface threads, sclerotherapy competes with laser vein treatment, which uses light rather than an injection and can suit very fine veins or those near the face. Many clinics offer both and advise which fits your veins best.

For larger varicose veins, sclerotherapy is often part of a wider plan that can include endovenous techniques, and a vein specialist will recommend the right combination. Sclerotherapy improves the appearance of veins but does not promise that no new veins will ever appear, so realistic expectations matter.

Risks, downtime and what results to expect

Sclerotherapy usually allows a quick return to daily life, often with compression stockings worn for a period afterwards. Expect possible bruising, redness, mild swelling, itching or a tender, firm feeling along the treated vein, along with temporary brown staining of the skin that usually fades over weeks to months. More serious complications are uncommon but possible, which is why a qualified practitioner and a proper assessment matter.

The honest expectation is that treated veins fade over several weeks and often need more than one session, rather than disappearing instantly. New thread veins can still develop over time, so results vary and are not a permanent guarantee. Following the compression and aftercare advice closely gives the best outcome.

Getting value without cutting corners

Value comes from a proper assessment, an experienced practitioner and a clear plan rather than the cheapest single session. Ask whether a scan is needed, how many sessions are likely and whether compression and follow up are included, so you can judge the real total.

Choose a clinic that examines your legs honestly and tells you if your veins point to an underlying problem that needs a different approach. A candid consultation and a realistic view of how many sessions you will need are good signs of a clinic worth booking with.

Is it worth it, and when to wait

Sclerotherapy is worth it for someone bothered by visible thread or spider veins who wants them less noticeable and accepts that more than one session and a little patience are usually needed. For that person, a well planned course can make a real, visible difference to how the legs look.

It is worth pausing first if your veins may be linked to underlying varicose veins, since treating only the surface without addressing the cause can be disappointing. A scan and specialist advice first can save money and frustration.

It also helps to time treatment sensibly. Because bruising and temporary staining take weeks to settle and compression is worn afterwards, many people plan sclerotherapy well ahead of a holiday or event rather than just before. If new veins appear over the years, occasional top up sessions can keep the legs looking clear, and a good clinic will set that expectation honestly at the start.