Varicose veins can cause swelling, heaviness, aching, and visible bulging that affect daily comfort. If you prefer a non-thermal vein treatment that avoids extensive numbing injections and allows you to return to regular activity quickly, ClariVein® offers a gentle alternative to heat-based solutions.
At Vein and Wound Center of LA in Koreatown, Dr. Christopher Kim performs ClariVein® using a diagnostic-first approach based on ultrasound imaging. Dr. Kim is a general surgeon–trained phlebologist who has performed thousands of vein procedures and provides care for both chronic venous disease and wound-related concerns.
What Is ClariVein?
ClariVein is an FDA-cleared mechanochemical ablation (MOCA) technique used to treat larger refluxing veins. A rotating catheter tip gently disturbs the vein lining while a sclerosant medication is delivered along the vessel. These two actions work together to close the unhealthy vein, allowing blood to be redirected into nearby healthy vessels.
How ClariVein Works
During the procedure:
- A slim catheter is inserted through a small entry point in the skin
- Ultrasound guides placement along the targeted vein
- The rotating tip gently disrupts the vein lining
- A sclerosant medication is delivered along the vein
- The vein seals closed and gradually fades as the body absorbs it
Because no heat is used, the process avoids the multiple injections of tumescent anesthetic required in thermal procedures.
Benefits of ClariVein
ClariVein offers several comfort-focused and practical advantages:
- No thermal energy is used, reducing the chance of irritating nearby nerves or tissues
- Only minimal injected local anesthetic is needed
- Most people return to their typical routines shortly after their appointment
- No surgical incisions and no scarring
- Typically less bruising and soreness compared with heat-based methods
- FDA-cleared since 2008
Who Is a Candidate for ClariVein?
ClariVein® may be a good option if you:
- Have symptomatic varicose veins such as swelling, aching, heaviness, or pain
- Prefer a non-thermal, non-surgical treatment
- Want to improve the appearance of bulging or blue veins
- Need a short recovery due to work or family responsibilities
A diagnostic ultrasound is performed before treatment to identify reflux and determine whether ClariVein is the best choice for your vein anatomy.
ClariVein vs. Other Varicose Vein Treatments
| Treatment | Technique | Anesthesia | Recovery | Key Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ClariVein® (MOCA) | Mechanical & chemical vein closure | Local only | Same day, minimal discomfort | No heat, fewer injections, reduced nerve irritation |
| Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA/EVLT) | Heat (laser) seals the vein | Local + tumescent | Quick recovery | Strong long-term results |
| Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) | Heat (radiofrequency energy) closes the vein | Local + tumescent | Quick recovery | Typically less soreness than EVLA |
| Traditional Vein Stripping | Surgical removal of the vein | General or regional | Longer recovery | Less common due to minimally invasive options |
| Sclerotherapy | Medication is injected into small surface veins | None | Immediate return to activity | Best for spider and small reticular veins |
ClariVein Recovery
Most patients walk immediately after treatment and resume light daily activities the same day. Aftercare may involve:
- Wearing compression stockings for a short period
- Taking brief walks throughout the day
- Avoiding strenuous activity for about a week
Safety and Side Effects
While ClariVein® is generally very safe, potential risks include:
- Mild bruising, tenderness, or temporary swelling at the treatment site
- Rare allergic reaction to the sclerosant solution
- Superficial phlebitis (inflammation of the treated vein)
- Rare risk of blood clot in deeper veins (deep vein thrombosis)
Most side effects are temporary and resolve within a few days to weeks. Serious complications are uncommon when performed by an experienced vein specialist.
Why Choose Vein and Wound Center of LA for ClariVein?
Choosing the right clinic is essential for effective vein care. At Vein and Wound Center of LA, your evaluation begins with detailed ultrasound mapping to understand how venous reflux affects your legs.
Our Koreatown practice provides:
- Comprehensive ultrasound imaging for accurate diagnosis
- Access to all major minimally invasive options, including ClariVein, thermal ablation, ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy, and visual sclerotherapy
- A medical, venous-disease–focused approach instead of cosmetic-only care
- The combined vein and wound care experience of Dr. Christopher Kim
- Free garage parking for convenient and safe access
- Help determining whether ClariVein meets your insurance plan’s medical-necessity requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Resources
- van Eekeren RRJP, Boersma D, Elias S, et al. “Endovenous Mechanochemical Ablation of the Great Saphenous Vein: First Results.” Journal of Endovascular Therapy. Reported a 97% vein-closure rate at 260 days.
- Elias S, Raines JK. “Mechanochemical tumescentless endovenous ablation: final results of the ClariVein device.” Phlebology. Demonstrated high occlusion rates and lower pain scores compared with thermal ablation.
- Lam YL, Lawson JA, Toonder IM, et al. “Mechanochemical endovenous ablation of the great saphenous vein: a prospective multicenter trial.” Journal of Vascular Surgery. Showed strong short-term safety and effectiveness of ClariVein.
- van Eekeren RRJP, Wijnand JGJ, et al. “Mechanochemical endovenous ablation of small saphenous vein insufficiency.” JVS: Venous and Lymphatic Disorders. Reported high technical success and favorable outcomes for MOCA in the small saphenous vein.
Book Your ClariVein Consultation in Los Angeles
If varicose veins are affecting your comfort, confidence, or daily routine, ClariVein offers a non-thermal treatment option with minimal downtime or discomfort. To learn whether this procedure fits your needs, contact Vein and Wound Center of LA in Koreatown at (213) 654-8346 to book your consultation.
