Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to treat varicose veins, particularly those caused by venous insufficiency in the legs. This treatment uses radiofrequency energy to heat and seal off faulty veins, rerouting blood flow to healthier veins and relieving symptoms like pain, swelling, and visible bulging veins.
RFA is a popular alternative to traditional vein stripping surgery due to its short recovery time, reduced risk of complications, and high success rates.
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)?
Radiofrequency ablation for veins, also known as endovenous radiofrequency ablation, is a safe and effective alternative to vein surgery. Studies show that RFA is 99% effective at treating superficial venous insufficiency, and it offers better patient experiences and reliable treatment outcomes.
During this procedure, a doctor inserts a small catheter into the diseased vein through a small incision. Ultrasound technology is used to guide the procedure so the doctor can easily identify where damaged veins are.
With RFA, consistent and uniform heat is delivered to contract collagen in the vein walls, causing them to collapse and close. After the vein is closed, blood is diverted to healthy veins, which improves circulation.
Benefit from improved vein health through blood flow restoration.
What to Expect During Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) Treatment
At your appointment, your vein specialist will:
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Use ultrasound to locate the diseased vein.
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Administer a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area.
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Insert a thin catheter into the vein and deliver controlled radiofrequency energy.
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Heat causes the vein walls to collapse and seal shut.
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Blood flow is naturally redirected to nearby healthy veins.
The procedure typically takes 15–30 minutes, and most patients walk out of the clinic afterward.
Who Is a Candidate for RFA?
You may be a good candidate for RFA if you:
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Have been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency
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Experience leg swelling, aching, or cramping from enlarged veins
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Have visible bulging or rope-like veins in your legs
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Have failed to improve with conservative therapy (compression stockings, leg elevation)
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Want a treatment that is effective, fast, and covered by insurance
RFA is typically used to treat larger veins such as the great saphenous vein (GSV) and small saphenous vein (SSV), which are common culprits of venous reflux in the legs.
Benefits of Radiofrequency Ablation for Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are raised veins that develop in the legs. They are caused by damaged vein valves, which inhibit healthy blood flow from the lower extremities upward to the heart.
Radiofrequency ablation can relieve both the physical and cosmetic symptoms of varicose veins. RFA treats the underlying condition that causes varicose veins, not just the symptoms. This minimally invasive approach to varicose vein treatment is also worth considering because of its advantages over vein surgery:
- It’s a safe and effective procedure that only requires local anesthesia.
- An RFA vein treatment only takes about 20 minutes.
- Recovery time is short — you can return to work or other activities that same day.
- This treatment is an outpatient procedure that can be performed at any of our vein clinics.
- Some studies show that the RFA procedure may be associated with less pain than vein surgery, making it an excellent alternative treatment for people with varicose veins.
Is Radiofrequency Ablation Effective for Varicose Veins?
Yes, Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is highly effective for treating varicose veins, especially those caused by underlying venous reflux disease. Clinical studies and real-world patient outcomes consistently show that RFA offers long-term symptom relief, excellent cosmetic results, and a high rate of vein closure.
Find Out if Radiofrequency Ablation Is the Right Vein Treatment for You
RFA is often recommended for patients who have larger veins and damaged or inflamed varicose veins. It offers an extremely high success rate and minimal pain or discomfort.
It’s also a relatively short procedure that allows you to return to your daily routine right away. There’s no hospital stay, no stitches, and no painful road to recovery.
If you have varicose veins and are looking for relief from your symptoms and an improvement in the way your legs look, schedule a consultation with one of our vein specialists today. We have over 160 locations across the country. Our doctors can also provide virtual appointments for your convenience.
Take the first step toward better vein health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does radiofrequency ablation for varicose veins cost?
The cost of the RFA procedure for varicose veins varies. However, most insurance providers do cover vein treatments, including RFA.
USA Vein Clinics works with most insurance providers. We also have affordable care options, including Care Credit® and Flex Spend Accounts (FSA/HSA). Call us at 888.768.3467 to learn more about insurance for vein treatments and our payment options. You can also check your insurance right away when you schedule a vein consultation online.
What should I expect on the day of my RFA procedure?
Make sure to eat, drink, and take all regular medications as you normally would leading up to the procedure unless instructed otherwise by your doctor. Wear comfortable clothing and bring in your compression stockings.
The team will walk you through the entire procedure from start to finish so you know exactly what to expect. Plan to be in the office for about an hour to an hour and a half, although the procedure itself should only take about 20 minutes.
Are there any risks or side effects of RFA for varicose veins?
The risks associated with the radiofrequency ablation vein procedure are minimal. In fact, RFA is used as an alternative to surgery because it’s associated with less pain and better experiences for patients.
However, there are some general risks and side effects to be aware of:
- Superficial skin infection. Infection is a potential risk with any procedure. Our vein doctors are highly experienced, which is why a skin infection is extremely rare, but it can happen.
- Allergic reaction to an anesthetic or cleaning agent. If you are allergic to an anesthetic or an antiseptic skin cleanser, we can use alternatives.
- Damage to surrounding blood vessels. Our doctors use advanced ultrasound technology to guide the RFA procedure, thus reducing this risk.
- Numbness or bruising around the injection site. These side effects will usually go away on their own in a few days.
What is the recovery time for radiofrequency ablation for veins?
Recovery is quick. You’ll be able to walk around or return to work right after your procedure.
How do I know if the RFA procedure for varicose veins is right for me?
Schedule a consultation to see one of our vein specialists to find out what treatments are best for you. Our experienced doctors will consult with you and provide an accurate diagnosis to determine if RFA or other minimally invasive vein treatments can help you get relief from your symptoms.
Learn more about the vein treatments our doctors provide at USA Vein Clinics.