Varicosities occur when your veins get enlarged or swollen and the blood pools in the local area. Here at Venus Vein Clinic in Omaha, NE, we offer several different treatments for this painful and sometimes dangerous condition. One of the most popular options is radiofrequency ablation. Let’s examine what this type of treatment entails and how long you can expect your results to last.
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?
During this therapy, Dr. Schroeder applies radiofrequency waves to the varicose veins you’d like to have removed. This energy heats up the veins and causes them to collapse so that no more blood can pass through them. Your body will find new pathways for your blood to travel through, and over time, the varicose veins will be absorbed and broken down.
The treatment is very popular at the clinic because it is so effective and there is very little downtime involved. Since you don’t have to undergo general anesthesia, you will be able to return home on the same day, and you can resume your normal activities soon after.
How Long Do the Results Last?
Radiofrequency treatment for varicose veins is considered a permanent solution because the vein in question is broken down and absorbed by the body. For this reason, it can’t come back. However, new varicose veins can form in some cases, so you may need to come to the clinic again in the future. When you visit us for your initial consultation, we can discuss how likely this is for you and what you can do to prevent it.
While varicose veins can have genetic or age-related factors, they are often caused by high blood pressure. You can do several things to keep your blood pressure at healthy levels. Eating a diet low in sodium and high in fiber and exercising regularly are two of the most important components of a healthy lifestyle. In addition, you could consider changing your sitting position, standing up during the day, and avoiding tight clothing and high-heeled shoes.
When Can You Expect Results?
Many of our patients only need one treatment, especially if they don’t have a large number of varicose veins to treat. However, you may need to come to the clinic several times if your symptoms are severe or you have several large veins that need to be removed. We will discuss this with you before you start treatment.
A week after your first session, you may start to see the results. They will increase over the next few weeks and months until your varicose vein has disappeared completely. Many patients see great results after 4-6 weeks, but it could take longer, and you may still see some improvements even months after your treatment.
Your Treatment
As mentioned, vein ablation isn’t a complex process, so you’ll be able to go home on the same day and return to work within a few days. When you come to the clinic with concerns about your varicose veins, we will have a look at your health history to discuss whether this treatment is the best option for you. If we decide to use ablation, we can then book you in for your appointment and give you some additional instructions about how to prepare for the session.
The Ablation Appointment
On the day of your treatment, Dr. Schroeder will apply a numbing cream to the local area so that you can enjoy a painless experience. Then, he will make a small incision and insert the catheter into your vein. With the help of ultrasound guidance, it will be passed through your varicosity and the radiofrequency waves will be transmitted to the vein’s walls. You and your doctor will both wear glasses during this stage to protect you from the waves.
There won’t be the need for any sutures because the incision is very small, and you’ll be able to stay conscious during the whole process. Most patients don’t report any pain because the area is numbed, but you may feel slight pressure.
Before and After
Since the treatment isn’t very invasive, you won’t have to do much to prepare for your appointment. Make sure to follow all of our instructions, such as stopping blood-thinning medication. On the day, you should wear loose clothing so that we have easy access to the treatment area.
In most cases, we will ask you to wear compression stockings to eliminate any post-treatment risks and speed up the healing process. You should avoid strenuous exercise, but walking is strongly encouraged to keep the blood flowing.
Are You a Good Candidate?
Most people who don’t have severe medical conditions are eligible for vein ablation. However, we will confirm this during your consultation. Aside from your health history, past treatments, and goals, we will also take your personal opinion into consideration. If you have any preference or concerns about your treatment, you can let us know and we will try to accommodate you.
Regain Your Smooth and Beautiful Legs Today
Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive, but very effective treatment for varicose veins. Because the vein is broken down by your body, you can expect your results to last forever. If a new varicosity forms, you can return to the clinic for another course of treatment. To find out how your varicose veins can be treated, call or message Venus Vein Clinic in Omaha, NE. We will be more than happy to welcome you to your initial consultation.
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