If bulging, aching veins are slowing you down, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to live with it. Modern treatments for varicose veins are precise, minimally invasive, and performed in a calm environment designed around your comfort. Below, we’ll walk you through the most common varicose vein treatments: sclerotherapy, endovenous laser (EVLT/EVLA), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), and other options. You’ll know exactly what to expect before, during, and after treatment.
At Refine Vein Center, your plan always starts with a careful diagnosis and a conversation about your goals. Then we tailor a treatment plan to address the root cause of your vein condition, not just the visible veins.
Your Consultation and Vein Mapping
Your first visit includes a discussion of your symptoms followed by an ultrasound by our registered vascular ultrasound technician (RVT). This is a painless, noninvasive scan that shows which veins are refluxing (leaking) and how blood is flowing. This “map” lets us target procedures precisely and helps with insurance authorization when treatment is medically necessary.
Insurance and Affordability
Many varicose vein treatments are covered by insurance when deemed medically necessary. Our team helps you document symptoms and submit the correct procedural codes and records. Note that purely cosmetic treatments, like treating spider veins for appearance, are usually not covered.
Why Minimally Invasive Treatments Are the First Line of Care
Major guidelines recommend endovenous ablation (laser or radiofrequency) as the preferred treatment for varicose veins because it’s effective, performed through a tiny puncture, and has a faster recovery than surgical vein stripping.
Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT/EVLA)
EVLT/EVLA uses laser energy delivered inside the diseased saphenous vein to seal it closed. The vein is accessed through a pinhole, and the area is numbed with local anesthesia along the vein for comfort and protection of nearby tissues.
What to Expect with EVLT/EVLA
- In-office, typically under an hour.
- Walking right after the procedure is encouraged.
- A compression stocking is usually worn for several days to a week.
Recovery and Results
Most people return to work and normal activities within one to two days, avoiding vigorous workouts for a few days. You may feel a tight “cord” sensation or mild bruising, but both are temporary. Closing the vein relieves symptoms and allows surface veins to fade or be treated later with other procedures if needed.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
RFA uses controlled radiofrequency heat to collapse and seal the faulty vein from the inside. Like laser, it’s performed through a pinhole with local anesthesia.
What to Expect with RFA
- In office, often under one hour.
- Immediate walking and quick return to daily activities (often within 24–48 hours).
- Short course of compression stocking wear is usually advised.
Effectiveness
RFA and EVLT are both guideline-endorsed first-line therapies with high long-term success and patient satisfaction. Your ultrasound map and anatomy guide which one we recommend.
Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy closes problem veins with a specialized medication. For ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy, we treat veins beneath the skin’s surface using real-time ultrasound to ensure precise delivery.
What to Expect with Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy
- In-office sessions, typically 15 minutes.
- You may see temporary redness or small bruises at injection sites.
- Some need several sessions for the best cosmetic results.
Sclerotherapy is a common procedure, and most patients tolerate it well. Like any procedure, it comes with risks of rare complications, like skin staining and superficial inflammation. Your clinician will review your history and minimize risks.
Varithena® (Polidocanol Injectable Foam 1%)
Varithena is an FDA-approved foam formulation of polidocanol designed to treat varicose veins, often without the need for local anesthesia. It improves both symptoms and appearance.
What to Expect with Varithena®
- We guide foam into the vein under ultrasound. The vein seals and blood reroutes to healthy pathways.
- We encourage walking right away, and we may recommend a short period of compression depending on your personalized plan.
Varithena is particularly helpful when anatomy or preferences make a non-thermal approach attractive, or as a complement after treating the main refluxing vein.
How We Choose the Right Option, Together
Every patient is different, so we take a holistic approach to diagnosis and treatment. We consider:
- Ultrasound Findings – Which veins are refluxing, vein diameters, and junction involvement.
- Symptoms and Goals – Pain, heaviness, swelling, skin changes, or cosmetic priorities.
- Guidelines and Evidence – Endothermal ablation first when suitable; non-thermal options or sclerotherapy when anatomy or preference makes them a better fit.
- Medical Considerations – Pregnancy (postponed treatment), clotting history, medications, and lifestyle.
- Insurance Coverage – Medically necessary vs. cosmetic care.
Your Treatment Experience at Refine Vein Center
We value a calm, spa-quiet environment so your visit feels unhurried and comfortable. We perform procedures in our Franklin office with meticulous, expert guidance by Dr. Reynolds, a board-certified vein specialist who has performed thousands of minimally invasive vascular procedures.
Ready to Feel Lighter on Your Feet?
Call (615) 716-VEIN or book your appointment online to start with a consultation and ultrasound.
We’ll explain the findings, outline treatment options, and craft a plan that matches your lifestyle and goals, whether you’re chasing symptom relief, cosmetic confidence, or both.
