Comprehensive Guide to Varicose Vein Treatments

You look in the mirror one morning and notice the bulging, twisted veins on your legs have become more pronounced. Perhaps you’ve been putting off seeking treatment, thinking that varicose veins are merely a cosmetic issue, or maybe you’re concerned that the treatment involves invasive surgery. It’s time to debunk these common misconceptions. Varicose veins are more than just a cosmetic concern; they can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. And the good news is that you don’t need to undergo surgery to treat them.

At Vein Treatment, we specialize in minimally invasive procedures that effectively treat varicose veins without the need for surgery. These state-of-the-art treatments, performed by our board-certified and Harvard-trained vein doctors, are designed to eliminate varicose veins safely and comfortably. This guide will walk you through the various treatment options available, helping you understand each procedure and the importance of addressing varicose veins early.

Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)

Endovenous Laser Ablation, often referred to as EVLA, is a cutting-edge treatment that uses laser energy to close off varicose veins. During the procedure, your vein doctor inserts a thin laser fiber into the affected vein through a small incision. The laser energy heats the vein’s walls, causing them to collapse and seal shut. Over time, the body reabsorbs the treated vein, and blood flow is naturally rerouted to healthier veins.

EVLA is a highly effective treatment, boasting a success rate of over 95%. It’s performed under local anesthesia, and most patients return to their normal activities the same day. This treatment is ideal for larger varicose veins and is an excellent option if you’re looking for a quick and effective solution with minimal downtime.

Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Similar to EVLA, Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is another minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins. Instead of laser energy, RFA uses radiofrequency energy to generate heat and close off the affected veins. A catheter is inserted into the vein, and radiofrequency energy is delivered to heat and collapse the vein walls. Like EVLA, the closed vein is eventually absorbed by the body.

RFA is known for its comfort and quick recovery time. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and most patients experience minimal discomfort. RFA is particularly effective for treating veins in the legs, and many patients see immediate improvement in symptoms such as pain, swelling, and heaviness.

VenaSeal

VenaSeal is an innovative treatment that uses a medical adhesive to close varicose veins. Unlike EVLA and RFA, VenaSeal doesn’t require heat to seal the veins, making it a great option for patients who may be sensitive to thermal treatments. Your vein doctor uses ultrasound guidance to deliver the adhesive directly into the vein, which then seals the vein shut.

One of VenaSeal’s biggest advantages is that it typically requires fewer injections and causes less discomfort than other treatments. Because it doesn’t use thermal energy, there’s no need for multiple needle sticks or tumescent anesthesia, making it a highly comfortable option. Additionally, patients can resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.

ClariVein

ClariVein is a unique treatment that combines mechanical and chemical methods to treat varicose veins. This non-thermal treatment uses a special catheter with a rotating tip to deliver a sclerosant (a solution that causes the vein to close) directly into the vein. The mechanical action of the rotating tip, combined with the chemical action of the sclerosant, effectively seals the vein without the need for heat or large amounts of anesthesia.

ClariVein is an excellent option for patients who prefer a minimally invasive treatment with minimal discomfort. It’s especially effective for veins that are difficult to treat with thermal methods and is associated with a quick recovery. Most patients can return to their daily routines immediately after the procedure.

Ambulatory Phlebectomy

Ambulatory phlebectomy is used to remove superficial varicose veins through tiny incisions in the skin. This treatment is often used for veins that are too large to be treated with sclerotherapy but don’t require the more invasive stripping surgery. During the procedure, your vein doctor makes small punctures or incisions along the vein and removes it using a special tool.

The incisions are so small that they don’t require stitches, and scarring is minimal. Ambulatory phlebectomy is performed under local anesthesia, and most patients can walk immediately after the procedure. This treatment is highly effective for removing visible varicose veins and provides immediate cosmetic improvement.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a versatile treatment commonly used to treat small varicose veins and spider veins. During the procedure, your vein doctor injects a sclerosant solution directly into the affected veins. This solution irritates the veins’ lining, causing them to collapse and eventually fade away. Sclerotherapy is often used in conjunction with other treatments like EVLA or RFA to address all levels of vein disease.

Sclerotherapy can be performed in your vein doctor’s office. It’s highly effective for treating small to medium-sized varicose veins, and multiple sessions may be needed for optimal results. The recovery is minimal, and you can return to your normal activities almost immediately.

Advantages of Minimally Invasive Varicose Vein Treatments:

• No General Anesthesia Required: All the treatments mentioned above are performed under local anesthesia, meaning you won’t need to undergo general anesthesia or hospital stays. This reduces the risks associated with anesthesia and shortens your recovery time.
• Quick Recovery Time: These procedures allow you to return to your daily activities almost immediately. Most patients experience little to no discomfort after treatment.
• Effective and Long-Lasting Results: Minimally invasive varicose vein treatments are highly effective, with success rates often exceeding 90%. The treatments target the root cause of varicose veins, leading to long-lasting results and symptom relief.
• Cosmetic Benefits: In addition to relieving symptoms, these treatments also provide significant cosmetic benefits, eliminating the appearance of unsightly veins and restoring the smooth appearance of your legs.
• Minimized Scarring: Unlike traditional surgery, these procedures involve minimal incisions, leading to little to no scarring. This ensures that your legs look and feel better post-treatment.

Consequences of Untreated Varicose Veins:

• Chronic Pain and Discomfort: Varicose veins can cause aching, throbbing, and a sense of heaviness in the legs. Over time, these symptoms can worsen, leading to chronic pain that can interfere with your daily life.
• Skin Changes and Ulcers: Untreated varicose veins can cause significant skin changes, including discoloration, inflammation, and the development of painful ulcers. These ulcers are difficult to treat and can become infected, leading to further complications.
• Blood Clots: Varicose veins increase the risk of developing blood clots, particularly superficial thrombophlebitis, where a clot forms in a vein close to the skin’s surface. In some cases, this can progress to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which requires immediate medical attention.
• Swelling and Edema: Persistent varicose veins can lead to chronic swelling in the legs, a condition known as edema. This swelling can be uncomfortable and may lead to further skin and tissue damage over time.

Bonus: All of These Varicose Vein Treatments Are Covered by Insurance!

One of the most common concerns about varicose vein treatment is the cost. Fortunately, most varicose vein treatments are covered by medical insurance because they are considered medically necessary, not just cosmetic. At Vein Treatment, we offer free insurance verification before your first appointment, ensuring you understand your coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs. Contact us to request free insurance verification today.

Varicose veins are not just a cosmetic issue—they are a medical condition that requires attention. With the variety of minimally invasive varicose vein treatments available at our state-of-the-art vein clinics, there’s no need to delay treatment any longer. Whether you’re dealing with small spider veins or larger, more painful varicose veins, our Harvard-trained vein doctors have the expertise to restore the health and appearance of your legs.

Our vein doctors can treat all your conditions at our various vein clinics in New York, New Jersey, Long Island, Maryland, and California. Contact us to schedule a consultation, or visit your nearest clinic to learn more about how we can help you.