Understanding Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that appear blue or dark purple. They occur when faulty valves in the veins allow blood to flow in the wrong direction or to pool.
These veins commonly appear in the legs and feet because standing and walking increase pressure in the lower body veins. For many people, they're simply a cosmetic concern. For others, they can cause aching pain and discomfort, and sometimes lead to more serious problems.
Types of Vein Conditions
- Spider veins (Telangiectasia) - Small, thin lines (less than 1mm) that appear red or blue
- Reticular veins - Flat blue veins (1-3mm) visible beneath the skin
- Varicose veins - Enlarged, bulging veins (greater than 3mm) that may be raised above the skin surface
Benefits of Modern Treatment
Minimal Downtime
Return to normal activities within 24-48 hours, compared to weeks with traditional surgery.
Less Pain
Minimally invasive procedures cause significantly less discomfort than traditional vein stripping.
Excellent Results
High success rates with improved appearance and relief from symptoms like pain and swelling.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Radiofrequency Ablation is a modern, minimally invasive treatment that uses controlled heat to seal off problematic veins. This redirects blood flow to healthy veins, improving circulation and reducing symptoms.
The RFA Procedure
- A small incision is made near the affected vein
- A thin catheter is inserted into the vein using ultrasound guidance
- The catheter delivers controlled heat to the vein wall
- The vein collapses and seals shut
- Blood is naturally redirected to healthy veins
Advantages of RFA
- Performed under local anesthesia in our office
- Typically takes less than an hour
- Return to normal activities within 24-48 hours
- Excellent success rates comparable to traditional surgery
- Minimal discomfort during and after the procedure
How RFA Works
Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy
How Sclerotherapy Works
Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical treatment that involves injecting a solution directly into the affected veins. This solution irritates the vein lining, causing it to collapse and eventually fade away as the body naturally absorbs it.
The Sclerotherapy Procedure
- The treatment area is cleansed
- A specialized solution is injected into the vein using ultrasound guidance
- The solution causes the vein to collapse and stick together
- The vein eventually scars and fades from view
- Blood flow is redirected to healthy veins
What to Expect
We use a foam solution that acts like a detergent, injected directly into the vein under ultrasound guidance. The procedure is quick, typically taking 15-30 minutes, and you can resume normal activities immediately afterward.
Potential Side Effects
While sclerotherapy is generally safe, potential side effects may include:
- Temporary skin discoloration (hyperpigmentation)
- Mild discomfort at injection sites
- Rare complications such as ulceration or nerve injury
We use safe doses and precise techniques to minimize any risks.
Treatment Results
Our advanced treatments provide excellent cosmetic and symptomatic relief. Below are examples of typical results our patients experience.
Patient treated with Radiofrequency Ablation
Frequently Asked Questions
Many varicose vein treatments are covered by Medicare and private health insurance when they're deemed medically necessary. This typically requires symptoms like pain, swelling, or skin changes. Our team can help determine your coverage eligibility during your consultation.
Once a vein is treated, it's permanently closed. However, new varicose veins can develop over time. Most patients experience long-lasting results, especially when following post-treatment recommendations like regular exercise and wearing compression stockings when indicated.
Most patients report minimal discomfort during and after minimally invasive procedures. RFA and sclerotherapy are performed under local anesthesia, and any post-procedure discomfort is typically mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
The best treatment depends on the size and location of your veins, your symptoms, and your overall health. During your consultation, our vascular specialists will perform a thorough assessment, including ultrasound imaging, to recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific condition.
Many patients notice symptomatic relief almost immediately after treatment. Visual improvements typically develop over several weeks as the body absorbs the treated veins. Complete results are usually visible within 1-3 months, depending on the treatment and the severity of the condition.