Varithena® at Lake Area Vein Center is a minimally invasive procedure to treat varicose veins that cause discomfort or affect the appearance of your legs. During the procedure, a specially formulated, FDA-approved foam is injected directly into the targeted vein. Once injected, the vein gently collapses and redirects blood flow to healthier veins.
In the weeks following treatment, patients notice a gradual reduction in bulging veins, along with relief from common symptoms like heaviness, swelling, and aching. At Lake Area Vein Center, our team provides close follow-up and personalized care to ensure optimal results, helping you achieve smoother, healthier legs and renewed confidence without the downtime or invasiveness of traditional surgery.
Varithena® is an excellent option for people struggling with varicose veins. Those who experience symptoms like leg heaviness, swelling, aching, cramping, or skin irritation can find significant relief with this treatment. It’s ideal for patients who are concerned about the visible appearance of bulging or twisted veins and want a minimally invasive solution without surgery or lengthy downtime.
Whether you’re an active professional, a parent constantly on the go, or just looking to feel more comfortable in shorts or dresses, Varithena® may be an option for you.
Varithena® is a minimally invasive, FDA-approved treatment for varicose veins. It uses a special microfoam (polidocanol injectable foam) that is injected directly into the affected vein. This foam fills the vein, displacing the blood and causing the vein to collapse and seal shut. Once the vein is closed, blood naturally reroutes to healthier nearby veins, and the treated vein is eventually absorbed by the body.
No, Varithena® is a non-surgical and minimally invasive procedure. It doesn't require any incisions or stitches, just a small needle puncture to inject the foam. This is a big advantage over older treatments like vein stripping, which was a more invasive surgery.
The procedure is generally well-tolerated and requires little to no anesthesia. You might feel a slight pinch or pressure when the needle is inserted, but the procedure itself is often painless. Some patients report a feeling of tightness or mild discomfort in the treated leg afterward, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
The procedure is quite quick, usually taking about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the number and size of the veins being treated. Since it's done in an outpatient setting, you'll be able to go home the same day.
Recovery is very fast! You'll be encouraged to walk immediately after the procedure to promote blood flow. You'll need to wear a compression stocking for about two weeks to help with healing and reduce swelling. You can get back to most of your normal daily activities, including work, right away, but it's best to avoid strenuous exercise for about a week.
Varithena® is a safe and effective treatment. Common side effects include temporary bruising, swelling, and a feeling of tightness or mild discomfort at the injection site. Serious complications, such as blood clots, are very rare. Your doctor will discuss all potential risks and side effects with you before the procedure.
Many patients notice a significant improvement in their symptoms, such as leg pain, aching, and heaviness, very quickly. The visible appearance of the varicose veins will gradually improve over several weeks and months as the body absorbs the treated vein. You may need more than one session to achieve the best results, depending on the severity of your condition.
Varithena® is an excellent option for many people with varicose veins, especially those with twisted or complex veins that may be difficult to treat with other methods. It's often used to treat veins that are part of the great saphenous vein system. Your doctor will perform an ultrasound and a full evaluation to determine if Varithena® is the right treatment for you.
Varithena® is an excellent option for many people with varicose veins, especially those with twisted or complex veins that may be difficult to treat with other methods. It's often used to treat veins that are part of the great saphenous vein system. Your doctor will perform an ultrasound and a full evaluation to determine if Varithena® is the right treatment for you.
Most insurance plans will cover the cost of Varithena® if it is deemed medically necessary. This is usually the case when you are experiencing symptoms like pain, swelling, or skin changes caused by the varicose veins. Our team can help you verify your insurance coverage and get pre-authorization to ensure you are fully aware of any potential costs.
Varithena® is a type of sclerotherapy, but it uses a foam instead of a liquid to treat larger, more complex veins. EVLT uses heat from a laser to close the vein, while Varithena uses a chemical foam. One key difference is that Varithena® is non-thermal, so it eliminates the risk of heat-related injury to surrounding tissues. Sclerotherapy with a liquid solution is typically used for smaller spider veins, while Varithena's foam allows it to treat a wider range of vein sizes and types, including those that are deep or twisted.
