Discover 8 of the Best Treatments for Varicose Veins

Have you noticed twisted, bulging veins appearing on your legs, causing discomfort or pain? You’re not alone—varicose veins affect millions of people and can interfere with your daily life. Whether it’s aching, swelling, or simply the appearance of these veins, you’re likely looking for the best treatment for varicose veins. At VIP Medical Group, we understand how frustrating varicose veins can be, and we offer a wide range of vein treatments to help you find relief.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through eight of the best varicose vein treatments. Our team of highly trained vein specialists in locations across New York, Long Island, New Jersey, and California will work with you to determine the most effective approach for your condition. Keep reading to learn about the top treatments, how they work, and which one might be right for you.

Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive treatment that uses heat energy to close off problematic veins. During the process, your vein specialist inserts a catheter into the varicose vein and delivers radiofrequency energy, which heats the vein walls, causing them to collapse and seal shut. Blood is naturally rerouted to healthier veins, and over time, the treated vein fades away. RFA is an excellent option if you’re seeking a treatment with minimal downtime and a high success rate. Many patients experience immediate symptom relief, and the treatment typically only requires local anesthesia.

Endovenous Laser Ablation

Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) is another popular vein ablation technique. It’s similar to RFA but uses laser energy instead of radiofrequency. Like RFA, a small catheter is inserted into the vein, and laser energy is applied to the vein walls, causing the vein to close. The body then reabsorbs the vein over time, relieving you from the discomfort and appearance of varicose veins. EVLA is highly effective for larger varicose veins and is an outpatient treatment with minimal discomfort. While EVLA and RFA offer similar outcomes, your vein specialist will help you decide which method is the best treatment for varicose veins based on your vein anatomy and overall health.

Varithena

Varithena is a relatively new treatment that involves injecting a foam solution into the affected vein. The foam fills and seals the vein, causing it to collapse. Over time, the body absorbs the treated vein, and symptoms improve. Varithena is particularly beneficial for veins that are too twisted or difficult to treat with standard catheter-based treatments like RFA or EVLA. It’s also minimally invasive and performed in a vein clinic with little to no downtime.

VenaSeal

VenaSeal is a unique treatment that uses a medical adhesive to seal off varicose veins. Unlike other methods that rely on heat or foam, VenaSeal uses a safe, proprietary glue to close the vein. This treatment is performed under local anesthesia, and since there’s no need for heat, patients experience little to no post-treatment  discomfort. VenaSeal is an excellent option if you want a quick recovery time, as compression stockings are often not required afterward.

ClariVein

ClariVein is an advanced, minimally invasive treatment that combines mechanical and chemical techniques. A rotating catheter delivers a sclerosant (a chemical agent) into the vein, irritating the vein lining and causing it to close. This treatment is ideal for those who want an option without heat or anesthesia. Because of its dual-action approach, ClariVein is an especially effective venous insufficiency treatment. If you’re dealing with uncomfortable symptoms or visible varicose veins, ClariVein may offer the relief you’re looking for.

Ambulatory Phlebectomy

Ambulatory phlebectomy is a slightly more invasive treatment that removes varicose veins physically. Small incisions are made along the leg, and the problematic veins are carefully extracted. This treatment is typically used for veins too large or prominent to respond to minimally invasive techniques like sclerotherapy or foam-based treatments. While ambulatory phlebectomy requires a bit more recovery time compared to the other treatments on this list, it offers immediate results, as the veins are physically removed.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is one of the most common treatments for smaller varicose veins and spider veins. During the treatment, a sclerosant solution is injected directly into the affected vein, causing it to collapse. Over time, the body absorbs the vein, and it fades from view. While sclerotherapy is highly effective for spider veins and small varicose veins, it’s not always the best option for larger varicose veins, which may require treatments like RFA or EVLA. However, sclerotherapy is a great choice if you’re looking to treat spider veins or smaller veins.

Compression Therapy

Compression therapy is often the first line of treatment for varicose veins, especially in mild cases. Compression stockings help improve circulation by applying pressure to the legs, preventing blood from pooling in the veins. While compression therapy doesn’t eliminate varicose veins, it can alleviate symptoms like swelling, aching, and discomfort. Compression stockings are often used with other treatments, especially post-treatment, to enhance recovery. While not a standalone solution for varicose veins, compression therapy is a helpful tool for managing symptoms and preventing further vein damage.

Insurance Coverage for Varicose Vein Treatments

It’s important to note that most varicose vein treatments are covered by medical insurance if they’re deemed medically necessary. This includes conditions where varicose veins cause pain, swelling, or other symptoms of venous insufficiency. While spider veins are often considered a cosmetic issue, their underlying cause—venous insufficiency—may qualify for insurance coverage. This means that treatments like sclerotherapy may also be covered if you’ve been diagnosed with venous insufficiency. Contact us to request insurance verification and find out about sclerotherapy cost if your varicose vein treatment is covered.

Schedule Your Varicose Vein Treatment

If varicose veins are affecting your quality of life, there are plenty of effective treatment options available. At VIP Medical Group, our board-certified vein specialists are dedicated to providing personalized care to ensure you get the best results. Whether you opt for radiofrequency ablation, VenaSeal, or sclerotherapy, our vein clinics across New York, New Jersey, Long Island, and California offer state-of-the-art varicose vein treatments. Visit your nearest vein clinic to discover which vein treatment is best for you.