How Are Varicose Veins Removed? 7 Effective Treatments for Varicose Veins
How are varicose veins removed?
Varicose veins are swollen and enlarged veins that are visible through the skin. They are often blue or dark purple and can be found on the legs and feet. The root cause of varicose veins is chronic venous insufficiency, which occurs when the valves in the veins are not functioning properly. These valves are responsible for keeping blood flowing in the correct direction and preventing it from pooling in the legs. When the valves are damaged or weakened, blood can flow backward and pool in the veins, leading to varicose veins.
If you have varicose veins, it is important to seek treatment to address the underlying cause of chronic venous insufficiency and to alleviate any discomfort or cosmetic concerns you may have. Our state-of-the-art vein treatment clinics are led by board-certified vein doctors who examine your leg veins, administer duplex ultrasound imaging tests, and diagnose the root cause of varicose veins before curating a personalized treatment plan. You can find our vein treatment clinics in New York, California, New Jersey, or Maryland.
Below, we describe some of the most effective treatments for varicose veins.
#1. Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to seal off the affected vein. The procedure is performed using a small needle and is typically done in a vein doctor’s office. It involves minimal discomfort and a quick recovery time.
#2. Endovenous Laser Ablation
Endovenous laser ablation is similar to radiofrequency ablation, but it uses laser energy instead of radiofrequency energy to seal off the affected vein. The procedure is performed using a small laser fiber, which is inserted into the vein through a small incision. Like radiofrequency ablation, it is minimally invasive and can be done in our vein doctor’s office.
#3. VenaSeal
VenaSeal is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a medical adhesive to seal off the affected vein. The adhesive is injected into the vein through a small catheter, and once it is applied, it seals the vein shut. VenaSeal has a quick recovery time.
#4. Foam Sclerotherapy
Foam sclerotherapy is a treatment that involves injecting a foam sclerosing solution into the affected vein. The foam irritates the lining of the vein, causing it to scar and seal shut. Over time, the varicose veins are reabsorbed by the body.
#5. Ambulatory Phlebectomy
Ambulatory phlebectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing the affected veins through small incisions. The vein doctor makes small incisions on the skin’s surface to extract the unhealthy varicose veins, following which the scars gradually heal and fade away.
#6. Compression Stockings
Compression stockings are specialized hosiery that apply pressure to the legs to improve blood flow and prevent pooling in the veins. Since compression stockings push the accumulated blood toward the heart, they can reduce the symptoms of vein disease.
#7. Lifestyle Changes
Making lifestyle changes can also improve the symptoms of varicose veins and prevent them from worsening. This may include exercises to improve circulation, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding standing or sitting for long periods of time.
There are several effective treatments for varicose veins, including radiofrequency ablation, endovenous laser ablation, VenaSeal, foam sclerotherapy, ambulatory phlebectomy, compression stockings, and lifestyle changes. You must speak with our vein doctors to determine the best treatment option for your individual needs and to address the underlying cause of varicose veins and spider veins.
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What happens if varicose veins are left untreated?
If varicose veins are left untreated, they can lead to several long-term complications. Here are some of the possible complications of untreated varicose veins:
- Skin Irritation: Varicose veins can cause skin irritation, such as itching and redness. This can lead to more serious skin conditions, such as ulceration.
- Swelling: Varicose veins can cause swelling in the legs and ankles, which can be a source of discomfort. If left untreated, this swelling can become more severe and lead to a condition called lymphedema, which is a chronic accumulation of fluid in the tissues.
- Blood Clots: Varicose veins can increase the risk of blood clots, which can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. Blood clots can form in the veins, leading to a condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT can cause pain, swelling, and warmth in the affected area and can lead to serious complications, such as pulmonary embolism.
- Venous Eczema: Untreated varicose veins can lead to a condition called venous eczema, which is a type of skin irritation caused by long-term exposure to high levels of fluid in the tissues. Venous eczema can cause red, itchy, and scaly skin.
- Leg Ulcers: If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to leg ulcers, which are open wounds on the skin that do not heal easily. Leg ulcers can be painful and can take a long time to heal, and they are at risk of becoming infected.
If varicose veins are left untreated, they can lead to several long-term complications, including skin irritation, swelling, blood clots, venous eczema, and leg ulcers. It is important to seek treatment for varicose veins to address the underlying cause of chronic venous insufficiency and to prevent these complications. Our board-certified vein doctors always diagnose and treat the root cause of varicose veins to improve your symptoms and minimize the risk of recurrence.
If you’re in or around Manhattan, you can find our vein treatment clinics in Midtown Manhattan or the Financial District, a short walk from the 9/11 Tribute Museum. Please schedule an appointment at your nearest vein treatment clinic to explore your minimally invasive varicose vein treatment options today.
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