At the time of injection there may be minimal stinging. You may also experience an itching sensation. To reduce both of these reactions, patients may take a small dose of Benadryl. After treatment you may have small raised pink or red areas at the site of injection, but this should subside within a few days. You may also experience slight bruising at some sites. Scarring and hyperpigmentation are very rare, but have a remote possibility. When larger veins or areas are treated, swelling is a possibility. Swelling is variable by patient by can last several weeks.
You need to avoid exercise or standing on your feet for extended periods of time for at least one day after treatment.
Although very, very rare, some patients can experience a reaction to the topical anesthetic applied prior to treatment. Patients may experience redness, itching, and/or blistering, which is short-lived and treated with mild topical cortisones. It does not leave any scarring or have permanent effects.