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The Skinny
Average Recovery
2 weeks
Permanence
Permanent
Application
Not Applicable
Surgical
Yes
Cost
$3000 - $5000
The Specifics
What is radiofrequency occlusion for varicose veins?
Radiofrequency (RF) occlusion for varicose veins is a cosmetic surgery to permanently reduce the appearance of varicose veins in the lower legs. It is a less invasive treatment option for varicose vein removal, and uses only local anesthesia. Varicose veins form when blood pools due to valve dysfunction and diminished blood flow within blood vessels; most often in lower leg veins. These large, bulging veins may be caused by chronic venous insufficiency among other medical conditions.Alternative treatment options for varicose vein removal include ligation and veinstripping, ambulatory phlebectomy, foam sclerotherapy, and laser treatments. Radiofrequency Occlusion, and laser treatments differ in that laser therapy is better suited to treating large veins.
What cosmetic concerns does a radiofrequency occlusion for varicose veins procedure treat?
1. Veins: In Radiofrequency Occlusion, heat therapy collapses vein walls causing varicose veins to shrink and be absorbed by the body.Who is the ideal candidate for a radiofrequency occlusion for varicose veins procedure?
The ideal candidate for radiofrequency occlusion has fairly straight visible, and large veins in the lower legs, and has determined any underlying medical conditions with a healthcare provider. Radiofrequency occlusion for varicose veins is not recommended for those who have undergone major surgery or been pregnant within the past 12 weeks, or those with a history of blood clots.What is the average recovery associated with a radiofrequency occlusion for varicose veins procedure?
Most patients experience a few days of recovery following radiofrequency occlusion. The majority of candidates return to regular activities within 24 hours. Compression stockings are worn for a few weeks, legs should remain elevated when possible, and long periods of standing should be avoided.What are the potential side effects of a radiofrequency occlusion for varicose veins procedure?
Possible side effects following a radiofrequency occlusion for varicose veins include recurrence, swelling, spider vein formation, changes in skin pigmentation, nerve injury, superficial thrombophlebitis, and development of a blood clot.What can someone expect from the results of a radiofrequency occlusion for varicose veins procedure?
The results of radiofrequency occlusion for varicose veins are noticeable after one week, but will take three to four weeks to finalize. If the underlying cause of the varicose vein was circulatory and it is not addressed recurrence is possible.What is the average cost of a radiofrequency occlusion for varicose veins procedure?
Radiofrequency occlusion for varicose veins can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $5,000. The actual cost of radiofrequency occlusion is dependent upon location, healthcare provider, and length and involvement of the plastic surgery.Pros
- More Comfortable
- Less Bruising
Cons
- Not As Effective In Treating Larger Diameter Veins
Invasiveness Score
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
What to Expect
Radiofrequency occlusion, also know as radio frequency ablation or RFA, is a minimally invasive technique for treating varicose veins. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after a radiofrequency occlusion treatment.
Before Treatment
No special measures need to be taken before a radiofrequency occlusion procedure.
During Treatment
- Ultrasound used to determine the location of the varicose vein
- Needle inserted for guide wires and dilators to make path for RF fiber
- Guide wires and dilators removed and RF fiber inserted
- Tumescent fluid injected around the vein
- Vein ablated every 3-7cm for 20-40 second intervals
- Once complete, leg will be wrapped in a compressive dressing
Immediately After Treatment
- Swelling and discomfort
- Wear bandage for 24 hours
1-2 Weeks After Treatment and Beyond
- Remove bandages day after procedure
- Wear the support stockings during the day for 2 weeks
- It is not necessary to wear stockings while sleeping
- Walking is encouraged to decrease risk of blood clots
- Avoid strenuous activity or long periods of standing for 2 weeks
Result Notes
- Improvement noticeable after 1 week
- Final results determined after 3-4 weeks
- If the circulatory issue that originally caused the varicose veins is not addressed, recurrence is possible
The Takeaway
A radiofrequency (RF) occlusion varicose vein rreatment is a less invasive procedure to effectively reduce the appearance of varicose veins.
