Varicose veins occur when the valves malfunction, allowing blood to pool, especially in the lower legs. The result is swollen, twisted, and discolored veins that may cause uncomfortable symptoms.
Lifestyle treatments are one way to alleviate varicose veins. Still, if they don't work, the Carolina Vein Institute offers radiofrequency ablation as an option.
Dr. Luan Tran and Dr. Rousu An are our two vein specialists offering RF treatments, sclerotherapy, and endovenous laser ablation for varicose veins.
Radiofrequency ablation is a treatment we use to close varicose veins to reroute blood into healthy vessels. It uses thermal energy delivered through a specialized catheter to seal the vein and cause it to collapse.
It's a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure, so that you can go home the same day as the RF treatment. Most treatments take 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the vein's size and location.
Radiofrequency energy is extremely successful for varicose veins – but how? The answer is gentle RF thermal energy that heats the vein, sealing it shut.
After one RF treatment, the damaged vein slowly begins to seal itself off. Without blood flow, the vein collapses. The body eventually reabsorbs the vein and eliminates it.
Most people experience immediate symptom relief, though it can take up to 8 weeks for the vein to disappear visibly. However, the recurrence rate is extremely low after the vein disappears.
RF treatments are a great option to relieve the appearance and symptoms of varicose veins. We recommend it for its extensive benefits to you, which include:
A major benefit of RF treatments for varicose veins is their minimally invasive nature. Each treatment requires only a small catheter puncture and a numbing injection. Most people go about their normal activities the same day.
RF treatments are extremely successful for varicose veins. According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, it has a 98% success rate, which is higher than that of other treatments.
After RF treatments, discomfort is reduced compared to other treatments, especially laser therapy.
Most people who undergo RF treatments for varicose veins recover quickly. They're able to go about normal activities and walk away right afterward.
Although many people have bothersome symptoms, others want RF treatment to eliminate the large, twisted veins. Most people are happy with the results, which show fewer visible veins on the surface of the skin.
As the vein closes off and collapses, the body reabsorbs it and reroutes blood into healthy vessels. The result is fewer or completely resolved symptoms.
We invite you to connect with us at one of our North Carolina offices or visit our website to schedule your consultation and begin your journey toward healthier, more comfortable legs.
