The development of varicose veins is often frustrating for individuals suffering from the condition due to the aesthetic of these veins as well as the associated symptoms. Varicose veins are often caused by underlying venous insufficiencies that cause veins to become swollen and enlarged, eventually becoming visible underneath the skin. The arrival of varicose veins often brings with it painful symptoms such as swelling, aching, or cramping that can hinder movement and disrupt daily living.
The network of veins found throughout the body is charged with the large responsibility of successfully moving blood back and forth to the heart, despite the pull of gravity. To help veins achieve this, they are equipped with a set of valves that move blood in the correct direction. When any of these valves become damaged or faulty, it doesn’t take long for blood to begin flowing the wrong direction. As blood begins to pool in the veins of the lower extremities, pressure builds causing veins to swell.
Where vein stripping was once the exclusive solution for eliminating painful varicose veins, patients looking to reduce their appearance and symptoms today now have more options than ever thanks to advancements in cosmetic technologies. Long gone is the need to undergo invasive vein stripping that required a lengthy hospital stay and recovery period. Instead, patients now can select from minimally invasive radio frequency vein ablation options that can be performed as outpatient procedures and involve limited recovery times at most.
Radiofrequency Vein Ablation
Patients are finding radiofrequency vein ablation to be an extremely painless, efficient, and successful route to reducing and even eliminating varicose veins. This method allows a cosmetic physician to collapse a problematic vein using a minimally invasive technique in an office setting that takes anywhere from 45 minutes to one hour in total. Once a patient is comfortable, the physician will inject a local anesthetic before creating a tiny incision through which to insert a small probe. Once the probe is positioned near the defective vein, a wave of radiofrequency energy is directed towards the vein to heat and seal the vessel closed. Over time, the vein will collapse and be reabsorbed into the body without causing damage to any of the surrounding tissues or vessels. Blood will naturally re-route towards healthy veins as the damaged vein is absorbed, eliminating the appearance and symptoms associated with the varicose vein.
Benefits of Radiofrequency Venous Ablation
There are a long list of benefits associated with this minimally invasive procedure. Many patients are thrilled to know that following this radio frequency vein ablation, they can return home the same day. It’s likely that a physician will recommend the wearing of compression socks for a period of time following the procedure in order to promote healthy blood flow and healing. Some patients report redness or slight swelling at the treatment site that’s often diminished with the help of over the counter medications as needed.
Because the incision used to insert the probe is no bigger than the tip of a pencil, those who elect to undergo radiofrequency venous ablation don’t have to worry about major scarring or wound care following this treatment. The entire recovery process is fairly timely and the elimination of general anesthesia and a hospital stay means that patients can rest peacefully knowing there is no risk of infection or respiratory complications related to either of these factors.
Insurance Coverage Considerations
As with any cosmetic procedure, it’s imperative that prospective patients check with their individual health insurance providers prior to undergoing treatment to understand what may or may not be covered. Some individuals are pleasantly surprised at the amount of coverage they’re eligible for when it comes to radiofrequency venous ablation as this procedure has the potential to carry long-term health benefits as it reduces underlying venous insufficiencies. If for some reason insurance is not available, or provides only minimal coverage, the team at the St. Louis Laser Lipo and Vein Center is happy to walk patients through a variety of in-clinic financing options that are available.
Schedule Your Consultation with Dr. Wright Today
When you’re considering the many benefits associated with radiofrequency venous ablation and are wondering if they just may be the solutions you’ve been searching for, contact Dr. Wright and his team at the St. Louis Laser Lipo and Vein Center. We take a comprehensive approach to patient care and believe that an initial consultation is the best way to determine a customized treatment plan of action. Feel free to give us a call and we’ll be happy to give you an overview of the many services we provide in addition to radiofrequency venous ablation. When it comes to vein health, Dr. Wright brings the experience and care you deserve as you consider treatment options to help you live your best life. We can’t wait to welcome you to our clinic!
