More than 40 million adults in the United States have varicose veins, and despite the misconception, they aren’t just a cosmetic issue. Varicose veins can also create symptoms like aching, swelling, heaviness, and leg fatigue.
While vein surgery has been a traditional treatment option, it’s not the only one. Our team at Vascular Specialists in Tinley Park, Illinois, often treats varicose veins with radiofrequency (RF) ablation.
Here, we explain what makes RF ablation at our Vein Care Institute different from other vein treatments.
The word “ablation” means heat. RF ablation is a minimally invasive, in-office procedure that closes diseased veins using heat generated by radiofrequency energy.
During treatment, your provider inserts a thin catheter into your affected vein through a tiny needle puncture. The device delivers radiofrequency energy that heats up your vein wall and causes it to collapse and seal closed.
Once the problematic vein closes, your blood naturally reroutes through nearby healthy veins. Because your blood no longer flows through the damaged varicose veins, it improves your circulation and relieves symptoms.
Unlike traditional surgery, this procedure doesn’t require large incisions or even a hospital visit. We perform it in our office, and you return home afterward.
RF ablation isn’t just innovative because it’s nonsurgical. There are many elements that make this vein treatment different from your other options.
Compression stockings can help relieve aching and swelling, but they don’t eliminate the damaged vein that's causing your symptoms. RF ablation addresses the underlying problem by permanently closing the diseased vein, which then allows your circulatory system to function more efficiently.
Unlike traditional vein stripping surgery, RF ablation doesn’t require large incisions or general anesthesia. You’re under mild sedation, and we only need a tiny puncture to access your veins.
Because there are no large surgical incisions, recovery is often much easier than with older surgical techniques. Many people are encouraged to walk immediately after treatment and can return to many normal daily activities within a day or two.
Your Vascular Specialists provider discusses any temporary activity restrictions based on your individual treatment plan.
Closing unhealthy veins often reduces symptoms like heaviness, swelling, and aching, but the perks don’t stop there. RF ablation also improves the appearance of visible varicose veins over the next few weeks.
As a result, you may only feel better but also become more confident wearing shorts, skirts, or swimsuits again.
Untreated venous insufficiency can worsen, which can increase your risk of skin changes, bleeding varicose veins, or difficult-to-heal leg ulcers. Treating damaged veins early may help reduce the risk of these complications while improving your long-term vein health.
RF ablation may be a good vein treatment option if you have:
The best way to know if RF ablation is right for you is through a comprehensive vein evaluation at our Vein Care Institute. During your evaluation, we listen to your concerns and learn more about your symptoms and medical history.
We perform a thorough examination, which often includes a venous ultrasound to evaluate blood flow and identify which veins aren’t functioning properly.
Living with aching, swollen, or painful legs doesn’t have to become your new normal. If you’re dealing with leg discomfort, it’s time to visit Vascular Specialists.
Call 815-824-4406 to reach our Tinley Park office staff or use the Request an Appointment button on our website to get started.
