Usually, there is a one-way valve in the veins that carries blood from the lower extremities to the heart. These one-way valves allow blood to flow from the lower extremities up to the heart and prevent it from flowing back down to the legs.

If these valves are damaged, blood flow is redirected to the legs, resulting in leg swelling. This is called venous reflux disease. The buildup of blood in the leg can increase the venous pressure and cause large varicose veins. As the varicose veins become larger, they can bulge from the skin into a warm, swollen structure underneath the skin. Early diagnosis and treatment of varicose veins can significantly reduce symptoms and prevent future risks.

If you have varicose veins, you might notice a range of uncomfortable sensations and signs in your legs, such as:

• Pain or aching that comes and goes
• Cramping in the legs, especially at night
• Restless leg sensations that make it hard to relax
• Tingling or ‘pins and needles’ feelings
• Charley horses or sudden muscle spasms

Paying attention to these symptoms can help you decide when it’s time to consult a varicose vein specialist.

This includes a detailed history and physical examination of the legs, an ultrasound examination to evaluate the venous anatomy of the legs, and a reflux study that can be performed in the office.

Varicose vein treatment begins with lifestyle modifications, which include avoiding prolonged periods of standing, wearing compression stockings, and engaging in moderate physical activity, such as walking.

If the symptoms persist despite non-invasive therapy and there is evidence of reflux in the veins, then the treatment would include ablation of the vein.

Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation

Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation is an ambulatory procedure that can be done in the office. This procedure is done under local anesthesia and takes about 15 minutes. The patient can walk out of the office and return to work the next day. Ablation of the saphenous vein can be done through various mechanisms, including laser, radiofrequency, or injection of sclerosing agents into the vein. Regardless of which method is used, once the saphenous vein is ablated, there is less pressure on the very large veins, which diminishes symptoms such as pain and cramping.

Microphlebectomy

Microphlebectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that can be done in the office. During this varicose vein surgery procedure, tiny 2 mm incisions are made over the varicose vein, which is then removed physically. This procedure is also performed in the office, and patients can return to work soon after the procedure.

Sclerotherapy

Small reticular and spider veins can be treated with sclerotherapy. During this varicose veins surgery procedure, a sclerosing agent is injected into the vein to help reduce its appearance.

Vein stripping

Vein stripping is also a procedure to remove the saphenous vein. This is an older procedure that is more invasive and, in general, is no longer used.

If varicose veins are not treated, they may cause more pain, fatigue, swelling of the legs and ankles, and restless leg syndrome. If not treated, varicose veins can also cause more serious complications such as

• Bleeding from the varicose veins
• Deep venous thrombosis
• Inflammation of the vein caused superficial thrombophlebitis
• Venous ulcerations
• Hardening of the skin and the fat, called lipoma dermal sclerosis
• Discoloration of the skin, especially at the ankle, caused by hyperpigmentation

Your Trusted Choice for Varicose Vein Treatment in Los Angeles

Looking for effective varicose vein treatment in Los Angeles? At Care 4U Surgical Center, we provide advanced, personalized care designed to relieve pain, improve circulation, and restore confidence in your legs.