How can vein doctors help resolve those persistent vein problems? In this blog post, we look at the different vein treatments and procedures offered at our vein care center.  

Let’s be honest. Most people with varicose veins wish they didn’t have them. Those ropey and twisted blue-purple veins are pretty noticeable. And because they stand out, patients can struggle with low levels of confidence. 

The problems associated with varicose veins aren’t all cosmetic either. The truth is varicose veins can cause pain and discomfort. In other words, we could do without them! 

Thankfully, at the Advanced Vein & Laser Center (York & Lancaster), our vein doctors offer non-surgical vein treatments to remove pesky varicose veins from people’s legs and lives for good. 

With more than one treatment available, you might find yourself wondering… 

What do these treatments with long complicated names involve? Which one would be best for me? 

The answer isn’t straightforward (it rarely is in the medical world!).  But we can help you understand what each procedure involves, so you can get an idea of what might be the best fit.

Just remember, what might be best for someone else, may not be for you. It all depends on the individual.   

Let’s explore the different options available!

The three vein procedures available at our vein and laser center 

At the Advanced Vein & Laser Center, we provide three effective and proven treatments for spider and varicose vein removal. These are: 

• Sclerotherapy 
• Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy 
• Radiofrequency ablation 

Each of these options is minimally invasive and our brilliant doctors have over 30 years of experience delivering them. Let’s take a magnifying glass to them… 

Sclerotherapy

Best for: spider veins and varicose veins 

How it works: A chemical foaming solution is injected into the abnormal vein. The foam then causes the walls of the treated vein to close in and seal shut.

How long it takes: Sclerotherapy treatment usually lasts less than one hour and is a minimally invasive therapy

Does it hurt? There should be a little discomfort. Most patients are fine, though some mild discomfort may be present afterward. 

Effectiveness: About 75-80% of the abnormal veins will lighten or vanish. It can take 4-12 weeks for the full results to appear. It’s not a fast or instant fix, but it significantly reduces the appearance of spider and varicose veins, helping patients get their confidence back.  

Side effects: You might experience mild discomfort, swelling or light sensitivity after this procedure. Though, rest assured, these side effects are common and usually disappear in around 2-6 weeks. Just avoid sun exposure and wait it out. 

Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy

What’s the difference between traditional sclerotherapy and ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy? 

With ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy, our vein doctor takes a detailed ultrasound of the affected areas and maps out the abnormal veins to treat. 

However, with traditional sclerotherapy, our vein doctors use VeinViewer® instead  – an infrared light device to light up your veins. 

Other than this, there’s not much difference between them. 

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA)

Best for: more troublesome superficial varicose veins and  to reduce symptoms of venous insufficiencies, such as cramping, swelling, and numbness

How it works: This procedure uses radiofrequency energy to deliver heat into the vein, causing it to collapse in on itself. The vein then seals shut, and blood is redirected to healthy veins. This improves your vascular health as the blood follows a more efficient route back to the heart. 

How long it takes: It’s usually completed within an hour

Does it hurt? Our vein doctors provide local anesthesia to eliminate pain. Just like sclerotherapy, this is a minimally invasive procedure. 

Effectiveness: This is a super effective vein treatment and boasts a 97-100% success rate. Plus, it has a lower risk for vein perforation than laser ablation. 

Side effects: Some patients may experience mild discomfort or other mild side effects, such as swelling. These typically don’t last beyond a couple of weeks. 

Did you know… radiofrequency ablation can be used alongside sclerotherapy to remove the more stubborn superficial veins?

The main differences between sclerotherapy and radiofrequency ablation

Sclerotherapy is the first choice for spider veins and varicose veins. It doesn’t involve the use of anesthetic, and it uses chemicals to shut off veins instead of heat. 

Radiofrequency ablation is better suited to those troublesome superficial varicose veins. The anesthetic can be used, and it shuts off veins using targeted energy that converts into heat rather than foam. 

The side effects of both treatments are similar. Both treatments are highly effective, minimally invasive, and relatively quick to perform. 

What about the difference between radiofrequency ablation and laser ablation? 

The differences between laser ablation and radiofrequency ablation are small. However, patients might prefer radiofrequency ablation due to the potential for lower side effects. In comparison to laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation leads to less bruising It also involves a lower risk of perforation, and patients usually experience less post-operative pain. 

The best vein treatment for you

The best treatment for you will depend on your individual circumstances. You and your surgeon will take into account your diagnosis, your medical history, and your preferences when selecting the best procedure. 

To begin the path to finding the right procedure for you, book an in-depth consultation with a vein doctor. They’ll help you figure out the best path to resolve your varicose vein problem in no time. 

Choose Advanced Vein & Laser Center, located in York and Lancaster, Pennsylvania. 

If you’re looking for a Pennsylvania-based vein and laser center, we’re here to help. Our vein specialists – Dr. Steven Heird and Dr. David Winand are experienced and reputable experts when it comes to treating vascular diseases and vein-related problems. 

Get in touch to find out what we can do for you. You don’t have to live with your spider or varicose veins for much longer. Let’s work together to remove them with one of our excellent and proven treatments.