Understand the importance of seeking a qualified Angiologist to perform this procedure
A foam sclerotherapy is one of the most modern and effective techniques currently used in the varicose vein treatmentespecially when it comes to caliber veins and microvaricose veins. It is a minimally invasive procedure which is gaining more and more ground among vascular treatments thanks to its safety, efficiency and rapid recovery.
With advances in technology and clinical practice, this procedure has become a highly recommended alternative for patients suffering from:
- Chronic venous insufficiency.
- Pain and swelling in the legs.
- Feeling of heaviness.
It is also recommended for patients who wish to solve aesthetic problems such as telangiectasias and apparent veins. The use of polidocanol foaminjected directly into the affected veins, promotes the controlled closure of these vessels, allowing them to be reabsorbed by the body safely and effectively.
In this article, Instituto Medicina em Foco explains how the technique works, its main benefits and why Dr. João Maffei’s support makes all the difference to the success of the treatment.
What is foam sclerotherapy?
A foam sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat dilated veins, especially varicose veins e varicose veins.
This technique consists of injecting a sclerosing substance, usually a polidocanol foamThe foam is injected directly into the affected vein. This foam causes a controlled inflammatory reaction inside the vein, leading to its closure and subsequent reabsorption by the body.
How is the foam applied?
During the procedure Dr. João Maffei uses a safe and effective method to produce the foam, mixing the sclerosant with air.
The application is guided by ultrasound. This increases the precision and safety of the treatment, especially in cases of larger veins or veins located in deep areas.
Which conditions can be treated?
A foam sclerotherapy is indicated for a range of vascular alterations. See below for the main cases treated:
- Medium and large varicose veins.
- Reticular veins.
- Microvaricose veins (telangiectasia).
- Chronic venous insufficiency.
- Residual veins after surgery or other procedures.
As well as being indicated for aesthetic purposes, the technique also contributes significantly to improving clinical symptoms such as pain, heaviness in the legs, swelling and tiredness.
Advantages of foam sclerotherapy
This type of treatment is gaining prominence among Vascular Surgeons for various reasons. Among the main benefits of foam sclerotherapythe following stand out:
- Minimally invasive: no cuts or stitches required.
- Rapid recoverythe patient returns to their activities on the same day.
- Outpatient procedure: performed in a doctor’s office.
- Highly effective on different types of veins.
- Few side effects.
- Immediate reduction of venous symptoms.
In addition, the use of polidocanol foam provides a more effective action than the substance in its liquid form, especially in larger, more tortuous veins.
Difference between liquid sclerotherapy and foam sclerotherapy
Although the traditional technique with the liquid substance is still used, especially in cases of telangiectasia (superficial spider veins), foam sclerotherapy has important advantages:
| Features | Liquid Sclerotherapy | Foam Sclerotherapy |
|---|---|---|
| Efficacy in larger veins | Limited | High |
| Ultrasound visualization | Low | Excellent |
| Outpatient use | Yes | Yes |
| Adverse reactions | Rare | Rare |
| Recovery time | Fast | Fast |
Would you like foam sclerotherapy? Make an appointment with an Angiologist in São Paulo.
The role of the vascular surgeon
A key factor in successful treatment is the work of an experienced professional. Dr. João Maffei is a reference in vascular diseases and works with up-to-date protocols based on scientific evidence. He assesses each patient individually, analyzing the clinical history, the type of vein to be treated and the degree of chronic venous insufficiency, to indicate the best therapeutic approach.
A polidocanol foam is particularly suitable for patients with medium to large varicose veinsIt is also effective in cases of venous reflux detected by Doppler examination. It is also effective in cases of chronic venous insufficiency and for those who do not want traditional surgery.
Other criteria for indication may include:
- Presence of tortuous veins that make surgery difficult.
- Patients with contraindications to the use of general anesthesia.
- Quick return to work.
- Complements surgical treatment by eliminating remaining vessels.
The technique should be performed by an Angiologistbecause the foam application requires precision to avoid complications such as local inflammation or skin pigmentation. If you are looking for a varicose vein specialist in SP, o Dr. João Maffei applies this approach based on international guidelines, combining technology and safety.
Aftercare: expert advice
The success of varicose vein treatment depends not only on the chosen technique, but also on the patient’s patient adherence to post-procedure care. After foam sclerotherapy or application of polidocanol foamsome guidelines are essential to avoid complications.
Care in the first 48 hours
In the first 24 to 48 hours after foam sclerotherapyit is essential that the patient follows certain recommendations to ensure the effectiveness of the procedure:
- Do not apply creams, ointments or lotions without medical advice.
- Avoid exposure to direct sunlight on the treated areas.
- Avoid very hot baths or saunas.
- Do not massage the treated area.
- Check for intense pain, redness or local heat.
Use of compression stockings
Compression compression stockings are indispensable allies in the treatment of chronic venous insufficiencyand are recommended in practically all cases after foam sclerotherapy. They help:
- Reduce swelling (edema).
- Promote adherence of the venous walls.
- Prevent clots from forming.
- Improve venous return.
The model, degree of compression and wearing time vary according to the doctor’s instructions. In general, it is recommended to wear them for at least one week after the procedure.
Physical activity and rest
Resuming your routine should be done in a balanced way. Light walking is encouraged immediately after the procedure, as it promotes venous return and prevents the formation of clots. However, higher impact physical activities should be avoided in the first few days:
- Weight training with a high load for the lower limbs.
- Long-distance running.
- Exercises with jumping or repetitive movements in the legs.
Absolute rest is also not recommended, as controlled movement promotes circulation. The ideal is to maintain a moderate pace, with regular breaks, and always use the compression stockings recommended.
Why choose Dr. João Maffei as your varicose vein specialist SP?
The successful treatment of varicose veins is directly linked to the experience, training and humanized approach of the professional responsible.
At the Instituto Medicina em Foco Dr. João Maffei stands out as one of the most respected names in the field, working with excellence in both aesthetic and functional procedures.
Foam sclerotherapy at Instituto Medicina em Foco
A MEF is a reference in vascular health care and offers a complete structure for performing minimally invasive proceduressuch as foam sclerotherapy. With modern equipment and a multidisciplinary team, it guarantees safety, comfort and humanized care at all stages of treatment.
By choosing the Institute and Dr. João Maffeiyou will get:
- Individualized and welcoming service.
- Precise evaluation with ultrasound.
- Personalized therapeutic planning.
- Safe post-procedure follow-up.
- Visible and long-lasting results.
Experience and professional recognition
O Dr. João Maffei is a specialist in General Surgery, Angiology and Vascular Surgery at the ABC Medical School. He has a subspecialization in Angioradiology and Endovascular Surgery from the Faculty of Medical Sciences of Santa Casa de São Paulo.
His main activities focus on arterial and venous surgery, vascular access for chemotherapy and hemodialysis, as well as minimally invasive endovascular surgery. He is a true varicose vein specialist.
Book your appointment
If you suffer from varicose veins, microvaricose veins or other symptoms related to venous insufficiencydon’t wait any longer. A foam sclerotherapy could be the ideal treatment to improve your health, self-esteem and quality of life.
🏥 Address of Instituto Medicina em FocoRua Frei Caneca 1380, Consolação, São Paulo, CEP 01307-000.
🕗 Opening hoursMonday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
📞 Phone: (11)9.5675.6848.
Content updated in 2025.
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FAQ – Frequently asked questions about Foam sclerotherapy: the effective treatment for varicose veins
1. Who can undergo the procedure that injects substances into the veins for aesthetic or functional treatment?
The application of sclerosing substances, such as polidocanol foam, should only be applied by a varicose vein specialistsuch as an Angiologist or Vascular Surgeon.
2. A foam application for apparent veins painful or require anesthesia?
The technique is minimally invasive and generally does not require anesthesia. Some patients report slight discomfort or stinging at the time of application, but the pain is usually quite tolerable and temporary.
3. Can this method of treatment for vascular problems be done in the office?
Yes. foam sclerotherapy is performed in a doctor’s surgery, without the need for hospitalization. It’s a quick, safe procedure that allows patients to resume their activities on the same day.
4. What is the recovery time after using the sclerosing technique on the legs?
Recovery is usually quick. Most patients return to their normal activities within 24 to 48 hours, as long as they follow their doctor’s instructions.
5. Can veins treated with an injectable substance reappear after a while?
Veins treated with the sclerosing technique usually disappear for good. However, new dilated veins can appear over timeespecially in cases of genetic predisposition or habits that favor venous insufficiency.
6. What care is recommended after the foam session for dilated blood vessels?
After application, it is recommended that you wear elastic compression stockings, avoid sun exposure, refrain from intense physical exercise and avoid hot baths for the first 24 hours.
7. When does the presence of visible vessels indicate the need for an assessment by a circulation specialist?
Whenever there are bulging veinspain, burning, a feeling of heaviness in the legs or recurrent swelling, it is essential to see a varicose vein specialist.
8. Does the foam technique also work in patients with a history of thrombosis?
It depends on the extent, location and severity of the previous thrombosis. Therefore, only a specialist can assess the patient’s vascular history of the patient, indicating the feasibility of foam sclerotherapy or another more appropriate type of treatment.
9. Is this type of application suitable for eliminating small varicose veins or also larger vessels?
A polidocanol foam is effective for treating spider veins e telangiectasiasand for caliber veinsas long as it is assessed by an experienced professional.
10. How do I know if the best option for treating leg veins is sclerosing or surgery?
Only after a consultation and specific varicose vein specialist will be able to indicate the most effective treatment. Mild to moderate cases generally respond well to sclerotherapy, but advanced cases or those with significant venous reflux may require surgery or laser.
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