Varithena® Treatments for Varicose Veins
Varithena is the only FDA-approved minimally-invasive and nonsurgical injectable foam treatment that works to improve both the symptoms and appearance of varicose veins that occur in the great saphenous vein (GSV) system. Varicose veins are enlarged and bulging veins that most frequently occur in the leg’s GSV system. The veins in your legs have the critical role of pumping your blood back up into your heart. Inside these veins are tiny valves that are always working against gravity to keep the blood flowing to your heart. When these valves begin to malfunction over time, blood will start to pool and veins will swell and become varicose.
Varicose veins are not only unsightly when they are visible, but they are also often accompanied by a handful of unpleasant symptoms, such as heaviness, itchiness, swelling, throbbing and aching. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, Varithena® can alleviate these symptoms and improve the appearance of your visible veins in as little as one treatment. As a prescription foam treatment containing polidocanol, Varithena® may be used to treat a wide range of vein types within the GSV system, such as:
- Twisted veins
- Veins both above and below the knee
- Veins with small, medium and large diameters
- Veins that have been previously treated with other medications
Varithena® is a highly effective treatment for eliminating varicose veins, but it is not right for all vein types. Dr. Lev can help you determine if Varithena® is the proper treatment for you during your initial consultation. Patients who are allergic to polidocanol or who are prone to blood clots are not ideal candidates for this treatment.
How Does Varithena® Work?
Varithena® treatments can typically be completed in under an hour, and do not require any incisions or general anesthesia, however, sedation is optional. Dr. Lev can numb the site of your injections before administering a small amount of the medication through a catheter or a direct injection into the diseased veins. The Varithena® microfoam will fill and treat the problem sections of your treated veins, which causes the malfunctioning vein to collapse, and blood flow is redirected to healthy veins. As the medication begins to reach healthy veins, the microfoam will start to disperse.
After your Varithena® treatment, you will be able to resume your normal daily activities almost immediately; however, we recommend that you limit strenuous activities and exercises for about one week after your injections. You will also need to wear compression stockings or bandages over your treated areas for a short period after the procedure. The most common side effects experienced with Varithena® injections can include leg pain or discomfort, bruising or pain at the site of your injections. Most patients can expect to see an improved appearance to varicose veins in the GSV system and a dramatic reduction in their unpleasant symptoms.
The number of Varithena® treatments needed to eliminate your varicose veins will depend on the size of your veins as well as the number of veins requiring treatment. To discover if Varithena® is right for you, schedule your appointment with vein expert Dr. Lev at 212-204-6501 today.