Varithena® Treatment for Varicose Veins in Los Angeles
Varithena® is an FDA-approved, minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins caused by chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). Unlike traditional surgery or heat-based treatments, Varithena® uses a specialized microfoam sclerosant that is injected directly into the diseased vein. The foam gently fills and collapses the vein, redirecting blood flow into healthier veins and improving both appearance and comfort.
At the Vein & Wound Center of LA, we offer Varithena® as part of our comprehensive approach to vein care, helping patients achieve relief from painful, bulging veins with little downtime.
How Does Varithena® Work?
- A small catheter or fine needle is inserted into the affected vein.
- Varithena® microfoam — a specialized foam containing a prescription sclerosant — is injected.
- The foam displaces blood within the vein and causes the vein walls to seal shut.
- Blood is naturally rerouted into healthy veins, while the closed vein is absorbed by the body.
The procedure takes about 30–45 minutes, requires no incisions or general anesthesia, and most patients return to daily activities the same day.
Benefits of Varithena®
- Minimally invasive: No surgical cuts or stitches required.
- Comfortable: Only a tiny needle stick is needed; minimal discomfort.
- No heat, no tumescent anesthesia: Lower risk of burns or nerve injury compared to laser or radiofrequency treatments.
- Effective: Proven to close problematic veins and improve symptoms.
- Quick recovery: Patients typically resume walking and daily activities the same day.
- Cosmetic improvement: Reduces the appearance of bulging, twisted veins.
Risks and Considerations
While Varithena® is considered safe, possible risks include:
- Mild pain, bruising, or swelling at the injection site
- Temporary skin discoloration or lumps along the vein
- Superficial thrombophlebitis (vein inflammation)
- Rare risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or allergic reaction
Our team takes every precaution to minimize risks, including performing a detailed ultrasound exam before treatment and close follow-up afterward.
Varithena® vs. Other Vein Treatments
| Treatment | Technique | Anesthesia | Recovery | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Varithena® (microfoam) | Foam sclerosant injected via catheter | Local only | Same day | Large or tortuous varicose veins, non-straight veins |
| Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) | Laser heat closes the vein | Local + tumescent | 1–2 days | Straight saphenous veins |
| Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) | Radiofrequency heat closes vein | Local + tumescent | 1–2 days, minimal discomfort | Large saphenous veins |
| Sclerotherapy | Liquid/foam injections into small veins | None | Immediate | Small spider or reticular veins |
| Vein Stripping Surgery | Surgical removal of vein | General/regional | 1–2 weeks | Rarely used; large or recurrent varicose veins |
When to Consider Varithena®
You may be a candidate for Varithena® if you have:
- Bulging or twisted varicose veins
- Leg heaviness, throbbing, or aching after standing
- Swelling around the ankles or calves
- Skin discoloration or thickening caused by venous insufficiency
- Reticular or feeder veins causing visible spider veins
Varithena® Treatment in Los Angeles
At the Vein & Wound Center of LA, Dr. Christopher Kim offers Varithena® microfoam therapy as part of a full range of vein treatments. We’ll perform an ultrasound evaluation to confirm if your reticular or varicose veins are good candidates for Varithena®. Our goal is to provide long-lasting relief with minimal downtime and excellent cosmetic results.
👉 Call (213) 654-8346 or request an appointment online to learn if Varithena® is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Varithena®
Q: What is Varithena® used for?
A: Varithena® is an FDA-approved microfoam treatment used to close diseased superficial veins, including varicose and reticular veins, and improve leg appearance and symptoms.
Q: Is the procedure painful?
A: Most patients report only mild discomfort, tingling, or pressure during the injection. Because Varithena® is a non-thermal treatment, there is no risk of heat-related skin burns.
Q: How long is the recovery?
A: Most patients can walk immediately after the procedure and return to normal activities the same day. Compression stockings are usually recommended for 1–2 weeks to support healing.
Q: How does Varithena® compare to laser or radiofrequency ablation?
A: Unlike heat-based treatments, Varithena® uses foam instead of laser or radiofrequency energy. This means fewer needle sticks, no need for tumescent anesthesia, and less risk of nerve injury, while still effectively closing varicose veins.
Q: Are the results permanent?
A: Once a vein is closed with Varithena®, it will not reopen. However, new varicose or spider veins may appear over time due to underlying vein disease, which can be treated if needed.
