No one likes it when they see varicose veins popping up on their legs. These ropy, bulging veins aren’t just unattractive, they can be downright painful. If you have varicose veins, you may also have leg cramps, aching, or throbbing pain. The skin over affected veins may itch or may look discolored. If your varicose veins have not been treated, you may have so many of them that they are difficult to hide. There is no benefit to living with the symptoms of varicose veins for any longer than absolutely necessary. Here at LA Vein Center in Sherman Oaks, patients can explore a few proven vein treatments. Endovenous radiofrequency ablation is one of them.
Endovenous radiofrequency ablation eliminates unhealthy varicose veins quickly and with minimal bleeding, minimal bruising, and minimal discomfort thanks to the use of local anesthetic. In most cases, we need an hour or less to complete the entire procedure.
What is it Like to Get Vein Treatment?
Endovenous radiofrequency ablation is performed through a tiny incision in the skin. Remember, we numb the area first, so you aren’t likely to feel the tiny nick nor the insertion of the small hollow tube. This tube, called a catheter, is progressed to a precise area of the vein, where radiofrequency energy is then deposited. Radiofrequency is a type of thermal energy that creates controlled heat inside the vein, causing it to collapse. There are no nerves inside of our veins, so this does not hurt. After the vein has been sealed, blood finds other veins in the nearby area to flow through.
Benefits of endovenous radiofrequency treatment include:
- Fast, comfortable treatment
- Minimal swelling post-treatment
- Short recovery period
- Minimal bruising or scarring, if any
Recovering from Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation
Modern vein treatments are minimally-invasive, including endovenous radiofrequency ablation. After the procedure is done, we may apply compression stockings immediately. Compression helps redirect blood flow and also helps keep swelling to a minimum. These stockings may be worn for several weeks. They do not impair normal activity, which may be resumed the same day the procedure is performed if it is comfortable to do so. A week to two weeks after this procedure, veins look visibly smaller and lighter. Symptoms that had been problematic, like aching or throbbing, may also improve in this time-frame.
Come explore your vein treatment options at LA Vein Center. Call (818) 325-0400 to schedule your visit.