Vein ablation is a popular, minimally invasive outpatient procedure used to treat varicose veins, a sign of chronic venous insufficiency. For individuals dealing with symptoms like swelling, aching, pain, or heaviness in their legs, vein ablation offers relief by closing off damaged veins so that blood can be rerouted to healthier veins.
Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) vein specialists offer several different ablation methods, including laser, radiofrequency (RFA), chemical (VenaSeal, Varithena), and pharmacomechanical (ClariVein) techniques. The procedure is performed in an outpatient setting using local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. While vein ablation is effective, understanding what happens during recovery is crucial for ensuring a smooth healing process.
In this blog, we’ll take you through the types of ablation procedures used to treat venous insufficiency, what to expect during recovery, and helpful tips for promoting healing, minimizing discomfort, and avoiding complications.
Venous ablation is a minimally invasive treatment where thin, flexible tubes called catheters or small needle injections are used to close damaged veins. The vein specialist applies heat or chemicals through the catheter or needle to seal off the vein, helping to improve its appearance and alleviate uncomfortable symptoms. Once the problem vein is closed, blood naturally flows into other healthy veins in your legs.
The procedure is typically done in an outpatient setting, meaning you can go home the same day. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area being treated, but you will remain awake during the procedure. Center for Vein Restoration patients can drive themselves to and from ablation appointments and resume normal activities immediately with a few restrictions.
A good candidate for an ablation procedure is someone with varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency who experiences symptoms such as leg pain, swelling, heaviness, or discomfort. Those whose varicose veins cause cosmetic concerns or interfere with daily activities are also good candidates. Vein ablation is particularly suited for patients who have not found relief from conservative treatments like compression stockings or lifestyle changes.
However, patients with certain health conditions, such as deep vein thrombosis, severe arterial disease, or active infections, may not be suitable for the procedure. Your Center for Vein Restoration vein specialist will evaluate your condition to determine if vein ablation is the best treatment option for you.
Different thermal ablation procedures are used to treat venous insufficiency, each utilizing a unique energy source to seal off damaged veins. The two most common types are:
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) uses radiofrequency energy to heat the vein wall, causing it to collapse and seal shut. A small catheter is inserted into the vein, and radiofrequency energy is delivered through the catheter. As the vein closes, blood is redirected to other veins.
RFA is highly effective for larger varicose veins and is one of the most commonly used ablation procedures. According to the National Library of Medicine (NIH), radiofrequency ablation is associated with quicker recovery, reduced pain and scarring, and improved cosmetic results. The
Endovenous laser ablation (also known as endovenous laser therapy or EVLT) uses laser energy to seal the vein. During the procedure, a laser fiber is inserted into the affected vein through a small incision. The laser heats the vein, causing it to collapse and close.
EVLA is similar to radiofrequency ablation regarding its effectiveness and recovery time. It is particularly suited for smaller veins. According to the Cleveland Clinic, endovenous thermal ablation is safe when performed by a licensed, experienced provider, has minimal risks, and is highly effective in treating varicose veins.
In addition to radiofrequency and laser ablation, there are other, less common vein ablation methods, including:
Mechanochemical Ablation (MOCA)
Mechanochemical ablation combines mechanical disruption of the vein’s lining with a chemical sclerosant to close the vein. This procedure, called Clarivein, combines two methods to close diseased veins. It uses a catheter to inject a sclerosing agent while a rotating wire tip destroys the vein. The procedure takes less than 30 minutes and requires just one small entry point.
Chemical (Sclerotherapy) Ablation
Sclerotherapy is a tried and true, highly effective treatment option for smaller varicose veins or spider veins. A chemical sclerosant is injected directly into the vein, causing it to scar and close. While not technically considered a form of "ablation," it achieves similar results by shutting down dysfunctional veins. Sclerotherapy is often used in combination with other treatments to target small surface veins.
The NIH warns that “not all patients are suitable candidates for these procedures, and careful selection and evaluation are necessary to determine the best treatment option.” That is why it is vital that patients seek treatment from a trusted provider like Center for Vein Restoration, the industry leader in vein care. With decades of experience and a deep understanding of venous conditions, CVR offers expert evaluation and personalized treatment plans, ensuring that each patient receives the most effective and appropriate procedure for their needs.
Call 240-965-3915 to speak to a helpful Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR near you today.
Recovery time after vein ablation varies from person to person, but most patients can resume normal activities immediately with a few restrictions. However, full recovery may take anywhere from two to four weeks, depending on factors like the number of veins treated, the size of the veins, and your overall health.
While the procedure is minimally invasive, it’s essential to follow your Center for Vein Restoration doctor’s post-care instructions to avoid complications such as blood clots or infections.
Once the vein ablation procedure is complete, you may experience some mild side effects. According to the Cleveland Clinic, common post-procedure symptoms include:
These symptoms typically fade within a week or two. It's important to know that these are normal parts of the healing process and do not usually indicate a problem. Applying ice packs and elevating your legs can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
While rare, one must be mindful of blood clots in the leg post-procedure if you suspect a blood clot, contact Center for Vein Restoration’s deep vein thrombosis (DVT) rule-out service. Call the DVT hotline at 877-SCAN-DVT (877-722-6388).
Your doctor will likely recommend wearing compression stockings for at least one to two weeks after the procedure. Compression stockings help improve blood flow in your legs and reduce the risk of blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). They also help minimize swelling and support the healing process. Although it may initially feel slightly uncomfortable, wearing these stockings is a key part of your recovery.
One of the best things you can do to promote healthy circulation after vein ablation is to stay active. Walking is highly recommended, and most patients are encouraged to walk for 30 minutes to an hour each day starting the day after the procedure.
However, avoid strenuous activities such as heavy lifting, high-impact exercise, or prolonged standing for at least a week. Gentle movement is crucial to prevent the formation of blood clots and keep your blood flowing smoothly. As your body heals, your doctor will provide more specific guidance on when you can resume more intense physical activity.
While vein ablation is minimally invasive, some patients experience mild discomfort during recovery. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen are usually sufficient to manage any discomfort. Your doctor may also recommend applying ice to the affected area or elevating your legs when sitting to reduce swelling.
Contact your healthcare provider if you notice increasing pain or discomfort that doesn’t improve with rest or pain medication. This could be a sign of an infection or another complication that requires medical attention.
Most patients can return to work and resume normal routines within a few days. However, this can vary depending on the type of work you do. If your job requires a lot of physical activity or standing, you may need to take extra time off.
If your job involves a lot of sitting or driving, remember to take breaks and walk around regularly to prevent blood clots.
Follow-up appointments with your CVR vein doctor are vital to your recovery process. During these visits, your doctor will check for any complications and assess how well the treated veins are healing. They may also use ultrasound imaging to ensure the treated vein has closed properly.
If additional veins need treatment, your doctor may discuss options for further procedures.
According to the National Library of Medicine (NIH), Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) has a high success rate and a rapid recovery—patients typically return to work within a day. Clinical studies report a 96.7 percent success rate in vein obliteration over three to five years.
Within weeks of the procedure, patients see significant improvement in their symptoms, including reduced swelling, discomfort, and the appearance of varicose veins. However, the final results may take a few months to fully appear as the body gradually absorbs the treated veins. Because vein disease is a chronic disorder, the procedure does not prevent new varicose veins from forming; therefore, it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and monitor for any new symptoms.
If you have problem leg veins and think an ablation procedure like endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) might be your solution, it's important to first speak with an experienced vein specialist. They’ll help determine if it's the right treatment for you and make sure you get the best results.
At Center for Vein Restoration, our skilled doctors have years of experience treating varicose veins and offer personalized care to meet your needs. To learn more or book a consultation, visit Center for Vein Restoration near you. Call 240-965-3915 to speak to a Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR near you today.
CVR accepts many insurances, including Aetna, Amerigroup, Anthem, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Cigna, MultiPlan, Medicaid, Medicare, and more.
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