Pros and Cons of Varithena Treatment: All You Need to Know

You look at your legs in the mirror and notice the intricate web of varicose veins that have become more prominent over time. Perhaps your legs feel heavy at the end of the day, or you experience aching pain after standing for long periods. These symptoms might have left you searching for effective solutions to relieve discomfort and improve the appearance of your legs. If you’ve started researching treatment options for varicose veins, you may have come across Varithena—a minimally invasive, foam-based treatment. But is it the right option for you?

At Vein Doctor for Women, we know that making an informed decision about your vein treatment is essential. This article will guide you through the pros and cons of Varithena to help you understand whether it’s a suitable solution for your varicose veins. Keep reading to explore how this vein treatment works, its benefits, and whether it aligns with your needs.

What is Varithena?

Varithena is a minimally invasive vein treatment that addresses varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency. It works by injecting a specialized foam into the affected veins, causing them to collapse and eventually be reabsorbed by the body. Unlike traditional surgery, Varithena requires no incisions, and it can be performed in a vein doctor’s office with minimal downtime. Varithena is often recommended for treating varicose veins in the legs, especially when patients experience discomfort, swelling, or their legs feel heavy.

The Pros of Varithena Treatment

1. Minimally Invasive: One of the biggest advantages of Varithena is its minimally invasive nature. There’s no need for general anesthesia, and the procedure can be completed in under an hour. For busy women who can’t afford long recovery times, this vein treatment offers the convenience of returning to daily activities almost immediately.
2. Effective for Large and Small Veins: Whether you’re dealing with large varicose veins or smaller spider veins, Varithena can be tailored to your needs. The foam can treat a wide range of veins, making it a versatile option for many patients. Additionally, it’s an excellent alternative if you’ve been wondering, “Do varicose veins go away after pregnancy?” Varithena can help reduce those stubborn veins that often persist after childbirth.
3. Quick Recovery: Unlike invasive vein treatments that require significant recovery time, Varithena allows you to resume most activities on the same day. You may need to wear compression stockings briefly, but the downtime is minimal compared to surgical options.
4. Improved Appearance and Comfort: Varithena is highly effective at improving the appearance of varicose veins and reducing symptoms like aching, heaviness, and swelling in the legs. Many patients report a noticeable improvement in both how their legs look and feel after the vein treatment.
5. Covered by Most Insurance Plans: One of the biggest concerns women have when considering any medical treatment is whether their insurance will cover it. Thankfully, Varithena is often covered by medical insurance, especially if it’s deemed medically necessary due to symptoms like pain, swelling, or discomfort.

The Cons of Varithena Treatment

1. Not Suitable for Everyone: While Varithena is highly effective for many patients, it may not be the right choice for everyone. Those with certain medical conditions or a history of deep vein thrombosis may not be eligible for this vein treatment. It’s essential to consult with vein doctors to determine if Varithena is the best option for your unique situation. If you’re wondering when to worry about varicose veins, speak to a vein specialist.
2. Temporary Side Effects: Like all medical treatments, Varithena comes with potential side effects. Some patients may experience mild symptoms such as bruising, swelling, or discomfort at the injection site. These side effects are typically temporary and resolve on their own, but it’s important to be aware of them before deciding on treatment.
3. Multiple Sessions May Be Required: Depending on the severity of your varicose veins, you may need more than one session to achieve optimal results. While this isn’t necessarily a drawback, it’s something to consider when planning your treatment timeline.
4. Potential for Recurrence: While Varithena is effective at treating varicose veins, there is a chance that new varicose veins could develop over time. This is true of many varicose vein treatments, so it’s important to maintain regular follow-ups with your vein doctor to monitor your condition and address any new concerns as they arise.
5. Compression Stockings Are Required: After undergoing Varithena treatment, you’ll likely need to wear compression stockings for a few weeks. This can be a minor inconvenience for some, but it’s a crucial step to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications.

The Varithena Procedure: What to Expect

When you arrive for your Varithena treatment, your vein doctor will first assess your veins using a duplex ultrasound. This helps ensure precise targeting of the problem veins. The Varithena foam is injected into the affected veins using a small needle. The foam works by collapsing the vein, which is then reabsorbed by your body over time. After the procedure, you’ll be asked to walk briefly, and you may need to wear compression stockings to promote healing. The entire procedure is usually completed within 30 to 60 minutes.

Who is an Ideal Candidate for Varithena?

Varithena is an excellent option for many women struggling with varicose veins, especially if you’ve already tried other vein treatments like sclerotherapy, ClariVein, radiofrequency ablation, or compression therapy without success. It’s often recommended for those experiencing aching legs, swelling, or heaviness. However, the best way to know if you’re a candidate for Varithena is to consult a vein doctor.

If you’re in New York, Long Island, California, Maryland, or New Jersey, contact us to schedule a consultation at one of our state-of-the-art vein clinics. We’ll work with you to determine the best vein treatment plan for your specific needs and ensure you receive personalized care.