Varicose Vein Treatment
Beacon IR Clinic provides evaluation and minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins and venous insufficiency — including radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy for appropriate candidates.
- Treats
- Varicose veins and venous insufficiency in appropriate candidates
- Common symptoms
- Visible varicose veins, leg heaviness, aching, swelling, skin changes
- Typical setting
- Outpatient — most procedures performed in an office or outpatient suite
- Recovery
- Many patients return to light activity the same day
- Candidates
- Determined after vein evaluation and ultrasound review
About this condition
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins — most often in the legs — caused by problems with the one-way valves inside the veins.
Symptoms may include heaviness, aching, swelling, throbbing, itching, or visible bulging veins. Some patients also develop skin changes over time.
Venous insufficiency is the underlying condition in which the veins do not efficiently return blood toward the heart. Treatment is often focused on the underlying problem, not just visible veins.
How Varicose Vein Treatment works
Evaluation typically begins with a clinical exam and venous ultrasound to map the veins and identify any underlying insufficiency.
Radiofrequency ablation uses controlled heat through a thin catheter to close an underlying refluxing vein. The body then reroutes blood through healthier veins.
Sclerotherapy uses an injected solution to close smaller varicose or spider veins.
Treatment plans are individualized and may combine techniques.
Benefits and tradeoffs
No procedure is right for every patient. Below are general benefits and considerations to discuss with your physician.
- Targets the underlying problemTreatment can address venous reflux, not just visible veins.
- Minimally invasiveMost treatments are office-based with small access points or injections.
- Quick return to activity for many patientsMany patients walk immediately after treatment, though specifics vary.
- Cosmetic and symptom improvementTreatment may improve visible varicose veins as well as discomfort.
- ConsiderationsCompression therapy, follow-up visits, and lifestyle measures may be part of the plan.
Who may be a candidate?
The list below is general — it is not a diagnosis. A Beacon IR Clinic physician will review your history and imaging during a consultation.
- Symptomatic varicose veins or venous insufficiency confirmed on ultrasound
- Visible varicose veins causing discomfort or skin changes
- Patients seeking minimally invasive vein treatment
- Determined after physician evaluation and imaging review
Take the next step
Tell us about your symptoms and we will help schedule an appropriate consultation.
Schedule ConsultationBefore, during, after, and recovery
A general guide. Your physician will share the plan specific to your case.
Before
- Vein consultation and venous ultrasound
- Discussion of symptoms, history, and goals
- Pre-procedure instructions and compression guidance as needed
During
- Most procedures performed in an office or outpatient suite
- Local anesthesia for most treatments
- Treatment time varies by technique
After
- Walking is typically encouraged shortly after treatment
- Compression stockings may be recommended
- Written post-procedure instructions provided
Recovery
- Many patients return to light activity the same day
- Visible vein improvement is gradual over weeks
- Follow-up visits to assess response
Frequently asked questions
What causes varicose veins?
Varicose veins are caused by problems with the one-way valves inside the veins, which allow blood to pool. Genetics, prolonged standing, pregnancy, and other factors can contribute.
When should varicose veins be treated?
Treatment is often considered when veins cause discomfort, swelling, skin changes, or when imaging shows underlying venous insufficiency. Cosmetic concerns are also a reason patients seek evaluation.
What is radiofrequency ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation uses controlled heat delivered through a thin catheter to close an underlying refluxing vein, allowing the body to reroute flow through healthier veins.
What is sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is an injection-based treatment used to close smaller varicose veins or spider veins.
How long is recovery after varicose vein treatment?
Many patients return to light activity the same day. Specifics depend on the technique used and the individual.
Are before-and-after results guaranteed?
No procedure guarantees a specific outcome. Treatment is individualized and visible improvement varies.
Related conditions & treatments
Pelvic Venous Disorders
Pelvic venous disorders, including pelvic congestion syndrome, can cause chronic pelvic pain that worsens throughout the day or after long periods of standing. Image-guided embolization can be an option for appropriate candidates.
Men's HealthVaricocele Embolization
Varicocele embolization is a minimally invasive, image-guided treatment for varicoceles — enlarged veins in the scrotum that can cause discomfort and may be associated with fertility concerns.
Helpful resources
Varicose Vein Treatment guide
Printable overview placeholder. Download will be added as content is finalized.
Plan your visit
Virtual consults, imaging coordination, and visit planning for out-of-state patients.
Refer a patient
Information and a referral path for referring physicians and offices.
Discuss Varicose Vein Treatment with a specialist
Schedule an in-person or virtual consultation. We will review your history, imaging, and goals.