When it comes to treating varicose veins, there are plenty of options available. One such procedure is Varithena, a microfoam treatment that eliminates varicose veins. USA Vein Clinics specialists use duplex ultrasound to assess for reflux and develop a personalized treatment plan.
If you are looking for varicose vein treatments, understanding how Varithena works can help you make your decision.
What Is Varithena Treatment?
Varithena is a safe, effective, and FDA-approved treatment that can help relieve painful or unpleasant symptoms associated with vein disease. This advanced Varithena vein treatment uses a specialized microfoam to target diseased veins and improve both symptoms and appearance.
Many patients notice visible improvement in the appearance of varicose veins in the weeks following treatment, with symptom relief often beginning sooner, and it is performed in an outpatient setting.
How the Varithena Procedure Works
The Varithena procedure is a safe and effective treatment for diseased leg veins, including the great saphenous vein (GSV), a major superficial vein often affected by venous reflux. The procedure is straightforward and minimally invasive.
The Varithena vein procedure starts with:
- A vein specialist uses ultrasound guidance to identify the affected vein.
- Next, microfoam is generated inside the Varithena device.
- This microfoam contains polidocanol, a sclerosant that helps close the diseased vein, and is injected directly into the damaged vein.
- Then the foam fills the vein, causing it to collapse and seal shut.
- The blood naturally reroutes to healthier veins nearby.
Because the Varithena vein procedure is non-surgical, no incisions or stitches are involved. If you’ve been avoiding varicose vein treatment because you fear painful surgery, Varithena may be a good option for you.
What Conditions Can Varithena Treat?
Varithena vein treatment primarily manages varicose veins and underlying venous insufficiency. These conditions occur when veins struggle to circulate blood efficiently, which often leads to symptoms such as:
- Leg heaviness
- Swelling
- Aching or cramping
- Burning or itching sensations
By closing off damaged veins, the Varithena procedure restores healthier circulation and reduces these symptoms.
Because vein symptoms can have multiple causes, the most effective vein treatment starts with an accurate diagnosis of the underlying condition. A duplex ultrasound exam helps vein specialists evaluate blood flow, identify damaged veins, and determine whether Varithena is the right treatment approach.
Benefits of Varithena Treatment for Varicose Veins
With the Varithena procedure, people often find relief from common vein disease symptoms, such as leg cramping, aching, throbbing, or restlessness.
In addition to symptom relief, the Varithena vein treatment can help reduce your risk of developing chronic vein disease, including venous insufficiency, and its complications, such as venous ulcers, superficial thrombophlebitis, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
What to Expect During the Varithena Vein Procedure
A typical Varithena procedure is quick and convenient, often taking less than 30 minutes depending on the number of veins treated. Your vascular specialist will instruct you on what to do and what to avoid following the treatment.
Here’s what you can expect with the Varithena vein procedure:
- No hospital stay required
- Minimal disruption to your daily routine
- Ability to return home or work shortly after treatment
You may be asked in advance to purchase compression stockings, so you can put them on immediately following treatment. Wearing compression stockings after Varithena treatment can help minimize swelling and encourage healing. You’ll also receive simple aftercare instructions tailored to your needs.
Varithena Procedure Recovery and Healing Time
One of the biggest advantages of Varithena recovery is that most patients can resume normal activities quickly. After Varithena, it usually takes a few weeks to fully heal, though you can return to most daily routines right away.
However, you should avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and hot tubs or baths for several days. You’ll also need to return for a follow-up appointment within 2 to 3 weeks to ensure the treatment was successful.
Varithena Side Effects and Safety
Like any medical treatment, there are potential Varithena side effects, but they are typically mild and temporary.
Some of the common side effects can include:
- Mild bruising or pain at the injection site
- Temporary swelling
- Minor irritation along the treated vein
Less common side effects include allergic reactions, nerve irritation, or blood clots, though these are rare. Varithena vein treatment is safe and effective when performed by trained, experienced vein specialists.
How Long Does Varithena Treatment Last?
The results of Varithena can be long-lasting, especially when combined with proper vein health management. Extensive research has shown that Varithena treatment is effective not only in relieving varicose vein symptoms but also in improving their appearance.
Many individuals report:
- Reduced pain
- Less swelling
- Decreased itching and burning
- Improved leg comfort overall
While treated veins typically do not return, new vein issues can develop over time. Maintaining follow-up care and a healthy lifestyle can help extend the benefits of your Varithena vein procedure.
Who Is A Good Candidate for Varithena?
Many people with varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency may be candidates for Varithena treatment. However, candidacy depends on case-by-case factors, such as the underlying cause of your symptoms, the veins involved, and your overall health.
You may be a good candidate for Varithena if you:
- Have varicose veins or venous insufficiency diagnosed through a duplex ultrasound exam
- Experience symptoms such as leg heaviness, swelling, aching, cramping, burning, or itching
- Want a minimally invasive treatment option that does not require surgery
- Have visible varicose veins that affect your comfort, mobility, or quality of life
A vein specialist can evaluate your symptoms and diagnostic results to determine whether Varithena is the most appropriate treatment for your vein condition.
Varithena Cost and Insurance Coverage
How much Varithena costs varies based on your condition and treatment plan. Most major health insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover varicose vein procedures, such as Varithena vein treatment, when deemed medically necessary. Our financial specialists can help review your plan’s coverage details.
Varithena Treatment at USA Vein Clinics
The Varithena procedure is an effective option for treating varicose vein symptoms. The specialists at USA Vein Clinics are experts in Varithena and other minimally invasive treatments that improve circulation and reduce discomfort, without surgery or long recovery times.
USA Vein Clinics also offers other minimally invasive treatment options for varicose veins, such as:
- Endovenous Laser Vein Treatment (EVLT)
- ClariVein®
- Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy
- VenaSeal™
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
With nationwide locations and convenient scheduling, vein treatment is accessible wherever you are.
FAQs About Varithena Procedure and Recovery
Is the Varithena Procedure Painful?
The Varithena procedure is minimally invasive, so there are no large incisions. Most patients report little to no discomfort during treatment.
What are the long-term side effects of Varithena?
Varithena’s long-term side effects, including serious complications like blood clots or nerve irritation, are rare. Most patients experience only mild, temporary symptoms, such as bruising or tenderness.
Is Varithena considered ablation?
Varithena is not a thermal ablation treatment. It is a foam-based procedure that uses a sclerosant to close the vein, making it a viable option for anyone unable to pursue heat-based vein treatments.
What should I avoid after Varithena?
After a Varithena procedure, you should avoid strenuous exercise, hot tubs, saunas, and prolonged heat exposure for a short period. Vein specialists at USA Vein Clinics provide specific post-treatment guidance based on your individual plan.