Varicose veins aren’t just frustrating cosmetically – they can be uncomfortable day to day. Getting treatment for your varicose veins doesn’t have to be a hassle, or incredibly invasive. Instead, consider a non-surgical treatment like vein ablation.
Vein ablation is a great minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins and spider veins. Let’s dive a little deeper into what vein ablation is, the types of vein ablation that are available, and what you can expect before, during, and after your vein ablation treatment.
What is Vein Ablation?
Vein ablation is a non-surgical treatment for varicose veins. These are veins that no longer work properly and pool with blood, giving them a lumpy appearance under the surface of the skin. Vein ablation works to eliminate the veins and reroute the pooled blood to healthier veins that do function properly, resulting in medical and cosmetic benefits.There are four different types of vein ablation methods that can be performed:
- Laser therapy
- Sclerotherapy
- Radiofrequency ablation
- Vein glue (VenaSeal)
Each of these treatment methods are quick and minimally invasive, which results in very little downtime after the procedure so you can get back to your daily life as quickly as possible. To find out which ablation method is right for you and your condition, talk to a board-certified vascular provider.
How Do I Prepare for Vein Ablation?
Prior to your vein ablation procedure, your provider will likely perform a physical examination and order an ultrasound. This will give your provider a better understanding of your venous system so they can develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
What Can I Expect During My Vein Ablation?
Your vein ablation procedure may vary depending on the method used to treat your varicose veins. Here is a basic overview of each ablation treatment method mentioned above, so you can have a better understanding of what to expect during your vein ablation procedure.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy treatment (endovenous laser therapy or EVLT) utilizes a high-powered electromagnetic laser to burn off and close varicose veins. The laser is often guided through an intravenous catheter for more precise treatment. The laser produces heat which may cause some discomfort during the procedure; however, this goes away after treatment is finished. Laser therapy is most often used for small varicose veins.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a more traditional varicose vein treatment that utilizes ultrasound imaging technology to guide injections of a chemical substance called a sclerosing agent. When injected into the target veins, the sclerosing agent works to irritate and scar the vein, closing it off and eliminating it from the vascular system. Over the course of a few months, the vein will fade away.
Radiofrequency Ablation
Radiofrequency ablation is like laser therapy in that high-powered energy is used to heat individual veins, causing the veins to close for good. Instead of lasers, this technique uses a high-frequency electrical current and is also an effective way to treat varicose veins.
Vein Glue
This varicose vein treatment is exactly what it sounds like, and utilizes FDA-approved, specially formulated medical adhesive to close off the treated veins for the long-term. Dr. Mackay at Edward G. Mackay & Associates was the first provider in Florida to offer this type of treatment.
Each of these treatments may be made more comfortable with the use of a local anesthetic. If you’re concerned about discomfort during your treatment, talk to your provider about your anesthetic options.
What is Recovery Like after Vein Ablation?
Because vein ablation is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure, there is a relatively short recovery period following treatment. Patients will be asked to keep their incision sites clean and dry until they heal properly. Your provider may ask you to elevate your legs throughout the day and wear compression socks to promote healthy blood flow. Typically, patients make a full recovery from their vein ablation treatments within 2 to 4 weeks.
What are the Benefits of Vein Ablation?
There are many benefits of receiving vein ablation treatments from a vein specialist like Dr. Mackay, including:
- Minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment
- Little discomfort throughout treatment
- Minimal cutting and scarring
- Relatively short recovery period (about 2 to 4 weeks)
- Long-lasting, potentially permanent results
Vein Ablation Near Me
If you’re tired of the appearance and discomfort caused by your varicose veins, consider vein ablation treatments with Dr. Mackay at Edward G. Mackay & Associates. Dr. Mackay and his team of skilled, compassionate providers is proud to offer cutting-edge treatment for varicose veins including sclerotherapy, radiofrequency ablation, vein glue, and laser therapy. Each of these treatments is skill fully performed in our state-of-the-art facility, located in the heart of Tampa Bay, Florida.
If you’re looking for varicose vein treatment in Palm Harbor, Largo, St. Petersburg, or the neighboring communities, give Dr. Mackay a call at (727) 781-5652. You can also request an appointment here at your convenience. We look forward to treating you!