MINIMALLY INVASIVE VEIN TREATMENTS

Many people often seek vein treatment for cosmetic purposes. However, varicose veins, which appear as large, dark blue or purple veins bulging right under the surface of the skin, can also cause pain and discomfort. If not treated, they may even lead to complications.

TYPES OF MINIMALLY INVASIVE VEIN TREATMENTS

A few years back, the only way to treat varicose veins was through a surgical procedure known as “stripping,” where the physician made cuts in order to remove the affected leg veins while under general anesthesia.

Today, stripping is mostly a thing of the past with less invasive treatments like laser, injections, and radiofrequency ablation taking over. These procedures are performed by different specialists, including phlebologists (vein specialists), vascular surgeons, interventional radiologists, dermatologists, and plastic surgeons.

Minimally invasive treatments for veins include:

SCLEROTHERAPY OR INJECTION THERAPY

This is usually the first option for treating small varicose veins, reticular veins, and spider veins. The process involves injecting a chemical irritant – sclerosant – into the vein to destroy and scar the inner lining and cause it to collapse.

Once the vein collapses, blood is forced to flow through alternative, healthier veins. Any sealed veins are gradually absorbed by your body and disappear after a while.

RADIOFREQUENCY ENERGY OR RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION

This technique is used to treat varicose veins by transmitting radiofrequency energy causing it to heat up, thicken, and collapse. The vein is usually numbed, so you feel no pain or discomfort. Eventually, the damaged vein is absorbed into the body and disappears.

ENDOVENOUS LASER ABLATION

This procedure is similar to RF ablation. However, the physician uses laser energy to generate heat and scar the inside of the veins, cause it to collapse and close. Once scar tissue develops, the vein is gradually absorbed and begins to fade.

MINIMALLY INVASIVE VEIN TREATMENT CONSULTATION

Minimally invasive vein treatments take 15 to 45 minutes, and usually require you to wear compression stockings afterwards for 1-2 weeks.

Keep in mind that your physician may only recommend these treatments if your venous disease is causing you distress, and self-care options have proven to be unsuccessful.

To schedule an appointment, please call our office @ 1.844.77.VEINS or schedule an appointment conveniently online here.