Treatment for varicose veins: Here’s what you can expect

May 14, 2021 The Vein Institute

When it comes to varicose veins, every condition is unique and each patient will have lifestyle factors that need to be considered. Therefore, it’s only fitting that treatment reflects this variety. At The Vein Institute, we have created a treatment system that allows a tailored approach to ensure that no matter you’re receiving the versatile and professional treatment that you need.

Below is an outline of the general process, including a more detailed overview of the treatment for varicose veins, and what you can expect.

Firstly, the consultation

Once you have reached out, we will set up an initial appointment with you and one of our experienced Phlebolgists’. During this consultation, the doctor will perform a venous ultrasound to determine the cause and severity of your varicose veins. The consultation also gives us a chance to get to know you better and determine the best treatment plan. Once this has happened, we’ll provide a detailed breakdown of your tailored plan including cost and the process from start to finish.

Please note, you will need a referral from your GP to access the Medicare rebate.

There is no obligation to move forward with treatment. However, if you do, below are the treatment options offered at The Vein Institute.

Treatment for varicose veins

Depending on your initial consult and the nature of your condition, the treatment may vary. At The Vein Institute, we provide several different non-surgical options depending on the treatment plan, here’s a quick outline of each one.

Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)

This is considered the gold standard for varicose vein treatment, primarily due to the safety, success rates and speed of each procedure. We perform EVLA under local anaesthetic, so the most pain you’ll feel is an initial injection. Once the leg is appropriately numb, we’ll insert a laser-tipped fibre. This heats up the vein and clots the blood in the vessel, sealing it to stop blood from flowing through. Over time, the varicose vein will fade and the blood will flow through other healthy vessels.

Learn more: Is laser for varicose veins safe?

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

RFA is very similar to EVLA. But instead of using a laser to heat up the vein, we use radiofrequency bursts. Both RFA and EVLA are considered gold-standard varicose vein treatments with high success rates and low (<1%) risk of complications.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy works by closing damaged veins by injecting a sclerosing agent, which seals off the vein. This is guided by ultrasound imaging to ensure accuracy and comfort. This has been used as a procedure for over 150 years and has been refined to the point that it is minimally invasive and very low pain. Sclerotherapy is generally suited to Spider Veins or very small varicose veins.

Learn more: Treating varicose veins vs treating spider veins. 

 

Diagram of a normal functioning vein with healthy vein valves, a varicose vein with damaged vein valves and then an image of how the varicose vein looks when compressed by wearing medical-grade compression stockings.

Venaseal

By using medical superglue to seal off the vein, this works similarly to EVLA but uses glue rather than a laser. While it is a relatively new procedure, it’s shown to be highly effective and may be combined with sclerotherapy to target smaller problem veins.

Learn more: What is Venaseal?

After varicose vein treatment

Once the procedure is complete you will be able to get up and go on with your day, without any issues and with minimal pain. All you need to do is wear the complimentary compression stockings (valued at $139.95) which will be provided as part of your treatment pack. Compression stocking should be worn for a minimum of 5 days. You will also be required to walk 30 minutes a day for the 5 days after treatment. You will also be able to book follow-up sessions with the doctor to answer any questions or concerns you might have.

Seek expert advice

The doctors at The Vein Institute specialise in varicose vein treatment. We offer patients a comprehensive program using non-surgical laser treatment techniques. You can learn more in our Definitive Guide to Varicose Vein Treatment.

The benefits of non-surgical varicose vein treatment are:

  • Walk-in walk-out treatment
  • 98% success rate
  • Extremely effective
  • Can be performed at a clinic (no hospitalisation)
  • No general anaesthetic
  • Medicare rebates apply
  • No downtime or time away from work

To book a consultation and discuss our treatment program, call  1300 981 402. Or, make an enquiry via the Contact Us page.

 

diagram of what to expect if you receive treatment at the vein institute