What to Expect During and After Your Vascular Ultrasound
You have a vascular ultrasound coming up, but you still don’t know exactly what you’re in for. Our experts have you covered with all the need-to-know details in this blog.
Are the Results of Radiofrequency Ablation Permanent?
You’re tired of those bumpy blue tracks on your legs and are ready to do something about them. The question is: Can radiofrequency (RF) ablation eliminate them for good?
Yes and no.
To help you understand that cryptic answer, Dr. Hadi Shalhoub at Advanced Vascular Solutions explains the ins and outs of RF ablation and what you can expect.
Radiofrequency ablation 101
Radiofrequency ablation is an innovative way to remove varicose veins without surgery. In this minimally invasive procedure, Dr. Shalhoub inserts a catheter into your vein, releasing radiofrequency energy from the tip. The energy gently heats and collapses the vein wall.
Once it collapses, the vein seals shut, and your blood finds a healthier vein nearby and reroutes the flow.
Is RF ablation for varicose veins permanent?
Dr. Shalhoub often recommends RF ablation for treating varicose veins because it’s minimally invasive, requires little downtime, and works.
How well does it work? Studies report a success rate of 90-100%.
How long does it last? Forever. Once the vein collapses, it dies. Your body absorbs the old tissue and flushes it out of your system so it can’t ever return.
However, while the treated veins never reappear, new varicose veins can develop over time.
Why do new varicose veins appear?
New varicose veins pop up for the same reason your old ones appeared in the first place:
Genetics
If your family has a history of varicose veins, you’re more prone to developing new ones.
Lifestyle factors
Prolonged standing, obesity, and lack of exercise can contribute to the formation of new varicose veins.
Hormonal changes
Pregnancy, menopause, and other hormonal changes can impact vein health, leading to new varicose veins.
How to prevent new varicose veins after RF ablation
While you can't change your genetics, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of new varicose veins forming:
Stay active
Regular exercise improves your circulation and strengthens your vein walls.
Maintain a healthy weight
Excess weight puts pressure on your veins, so maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of new varicose veins.
Elevate your legs
Elevating your legs when sitting or lying down improves circulation and reduces venous pressure.
Wear compression stockings
We usually recommend compression stockings after RF ablation. They apply pressure to your legs, helping improve blood flow and reduce swelling. Wearing them regularly, especially if you stand for long periods, reduces the risk of new varicose veins.
Keep an eye on your veins
Regular checkups with Dr. Shalhoub allow him to catch new varicose veins early, when it’s easier to prevent them from becoming more severe and symptomatic.
Change your habits
Apart from exercise and weight management, there are other lifestyle changes you can make to keep your veins healthy:
- Avoid prolonged standing or sitting
- Stay hydrated
- Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins
Despite your best efforts, new varicose veins might still appear. If they do, call us. You might need another round of RF ablation or opt for VenaSeal™, another minimally invasive treatment that seals off your varicose veins with a medical adhesive.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Shalhoub, call Advanced Vascular Solutions in Sebastian or Melbourne, Florida.
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