How are Varicose Veins Removed?

Varicose veins are a very common vascular condition, affecting millions of people around the world. They appear as enlarged, twisted, and bulging veins, which are mostly visible in the legs and feet. 

While varicose veins are generally not a life-threatening condition, they can cause discomfort, pain, and aesthetic concerns for some. The good news is, there are several ways that varicose veins can be removed, with multiple treatment options available. 

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How are varicose veins removed?

Varicose vein treatment options have evolved significantly over the years, providing patients with effective ways to minimise their symptoms and improve the appearance of their varicose veins. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the patient's individual needs, but there are two effective methods used here at UK Vein Clinic to remove or manage varicose veins:

Radiofrequency Ablation

What is Radiofrequency Ablation?

Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation (EVRF) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicose veins. During EVRF, a thin catheter is inserted into the affected vein, guided by a precise ultrasound. The catheter delivers radiofrequency energy that generates heat and causes the vein to close. 

What are the advantages of Radiofrequency Ablation to treat varicose veins?

This method is highly effective in sealing off the problematic vein and rerouting blood to healthier vessels. EVRF has many advantages, such as a short recovery time, a high success rate and it is known to cause minimal discomfort - patients can often return to their normal activities shortly after the procedure. Unlike other techniques, it can be completed under local anaesthetic , carries lower risks of scarring and post-op recovery time, and consistently delivers excellent results. EVRF is a particularly great treatment option for larger varicose veins and provides lasting relief from symptoms.

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Foam Sclerotherapy

What is foam sclerotherapy?

Foam sclerotherapy is another minimally invasive technique that's effective for treating small to medium-sized varicose veins and spider veins. In this treatment, a specially formulated foam is injected directly into the affected vein. The foam displaces blood within the vein and irritates the vein's lining, causing it to collapse and gradually fade away. While foam sclerotherapy is an older procedure, it is precisely the use of advanced duplex ultrasound scanning that makes it as modern and reliable as other, newer techniques.

What are the advantages of sclerotherapy for treating varicose veins?

Foam sclerotherapy offers several advantages, including minimal downtime, and excellent cosmetic results with minimal discomfort. It's a valuable option for those looking to eliminate visible varicose veins without the need for surgery and although several sessions may be required to completely remove varicose veins, patients can often return to their daily activities soon after each treatment.

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Non-invasive ways to treat varicose veins

There are also non-invasive ways that can help to treat the appearance of varicose veins, however it is unlikely that they will go away completely. 

Lifestyle changes -  In milder cases, lifestyle adjustments can help reduce the symptoms of varicose veins. Changes such as regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, elevating the legs as much as possible, and avoiding long periods of standing or sitting can help to minimise the symptoms of varicose veins.

Compression stockings - Compression stockings are often recommended to relieve discomfort and prevent the worsening of varicose veins. These specially designed stockings apply pressure to the legs, helping blood flow more efficiently, however they won’t remove varicose veins entirely.

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Can varicose veins go away?

While there are various treatments available to manage and remove varicose veins, it's important to remember that these treatments are designed to alleviate symptoms, improve the appearance of varicose veins, and prevent complications. However, for many people, once varicose veins develop, they typically do not go away completely on their own.

The main goal of varicose vein treatments is to close off or remove the affected veins, improving blood flow and reducing discomfort for those suffering with them. Once treated, the appearance of the affected area (predominantly the legs) often improves, and symptoms like pain, swelling, and itching are relieved. These treatments for varicose veins have been known to significantly improve a person's quality of life and prevent the development of more severe complications, such as blood clots, although the progression to more serious issues is rare.

Varicose veins are a common vascular issue that, once developed, typically require medical intervention to manage and eliminate. At UK Vein Clinic our world class treatment pathway has been designed by Professor Stephen Black, who is one of the UK’s leading vascular surgeons.

If you have concerns about your vein health, get in touch with UK Vein Clinic. Our team of helpful experts will provide you with advice and guidance to help you find the right treatment for you.