What are the best benefits of Radiofrequency (RFA)

Brief, non-surgical procedure

Approved by the FDA.

Covered by most medical insurance plans, including Medicare.

No general anesthesia needed

No sutures

Little discomfort

Minimal downtime

Radiofrequency ablation with Venefit™ for varicose veins

The effective and safe technology of the Venefit™ procedure makes it one of the most powerful options available for varicose vein treatment without general anesthesia. It is a minimally invasive treatment that improves the appearance of varicose veins by harnessing the power and flexibility of radio waves. Venefit™ takes only 45-60 minutes, meaning that most patients only need to be at the clinic for a few hours of their day, making this an easy procedure to squeeze into any busy schedule.

In addition to its high-quality results, radiofrequency ablation is also known for a smaller chance of pain, bruising, or swelling when compared to other treatment methods. Patients can get back to their normal daily schedules that same day. These features make it a popular choice for both patients and providers.

The procedure itself is performed through the use of a small catheter, which is advanced into the target vein using a tiny incision. In fact, the incision is so small that it requires only a dose of local anesthetic to ensure comfort. After the catheter is in position, the radio frequency heating element at the end of the probe is activated, which causes the surrounding vessel to contract, forcing the blood to reroute through healthier veins instead. Patients wear compression stockings for the following two weeks to help ensure the best cosmetic outcome and prevent formation of small clots.

To learn more about radiofrequency ablation or any of our other non-surgical and surgical options, please contact our office at 646-402-5996. Our vein specialists will be happy to help you determine which of our safe and effective treatments is the best fit for you.

Varicose vein treatment with radiofrequency ablation available in Manhattan

Varicose veins are in great part a hereditary problem. These unattractive bulging, twisting veins can cause all sorts of discomfort; from restless leg syndrome to chronic pain and swelling. Vein Institute & Pain Centers of America offers a modern solution –radiofrequency ablation– to patients in the Manhattan area. This treatment restores appearance and alleviates physical symptoms of venous insufficiency. It is available at our state of the art vein clinic in NYC.

A nonsurgical approach to vein removal

Historically, varicose veins were removed under general anesthesia with a surgical procedure called stripping. Incisions allowed the surgeon to pull problem veins from under the skin. Sutures were required, and there was a substantial recovery period of up to four weeks.

Radiofrequency ablation, or RFA, is a minimally invasive alternative to eliminate abnormal veins, redirect blood flow to healthy veins, and relieve discomfort. Ultrasound imaging guide the doctor in precise insertion of a thin catheter. Radiofrequency energy is delivered through the catheter. It heats the vein wall, causing the vein to shrink and close.

The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, and typically takes an hour or less. Only local numbing is needed. You may get back to normal activities the same day. However, we advise wearing compression stockings for at least a week, before resuming strenuous exercise.

Improvement in symptoms within a few daysHigh success rate– more than 91 percent of treated veins remain sealed five years later.



What is radiofrequency ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive varicose vein treatment procedure that uses electricity to heat the veins which eventually collapse and seal off completely.

What is the difference between RF ablation and Laser?

During the procedure of radiofrequency ablation, a catheter is inserted into the vein. The catheter sends off heat energy which causes the vein to shrink. This basically means that the vein closes. Since the vein closes, it no longer carries blood, and eventually the body will absorb the vein. The laser filament uses a heating element. All are designed to target the vein wall. The heating element is so strong though and can cause damage to the vein, which can cause extreme bruising. The laser therapy does not shrink the vein like the ablation does, instead it forms a clot in the vessel to block blood flow.

Which vein removal method is better?

Although both methods have a very high success rate of closing the vein, laser ablation is generally associated with more bruising, pain, and discomfort compared to radiofrequency ablation.

Who are the best candidates for a Radiofrequency Ablation?

Patients with problematic varicose vein. Likewise, there are many times when patients have the following symptoms and may benefit from the procedure:

Painful legs

Swollen legs

Cramping in their legs

Discomfort in their legs

How does the procedure work?

Patient will lie down on bed, and an ultrasound is used to guide procedure. The leg being treated will be injected with a local anesthetic, and a small needle punctures the vein to be treated. The catheter will be inserted into the vein and more numbing medication will be injected around the vein. Once the numbing medication is placed around the catheter and vein, the catheter will slowly be pulled back. During the time the catheter generates heat, the vein is closed off. This is completely safe and the expected result.

Does radiofrequency ablation hurt?

Most patients report feeling little, if any, pain during the ablation procedure. Our physicians will give you a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area.

What are the expected results after I get a radiofrequency ablation

Patients can often notice a dramatic improvement in the way their legs feel within a few days. The varicose veins will take some time to fully disappear, depending on how severe they are bulging from your skin and how long you have left them untreated. Typically patients have 1 to 4 veins that need treatment, so depending on how severe your case is, it will determine how soon will you see results. Since we are the nation’s top vein experts, Ivy League trained, our results have been usually twice as fast and effective than other vein clinics.

Does insurance cover the treatment?

Yes! Give us a call at 646-402-5996 and one of our staff members will help verify your insurance.

What is the recovery like?

You may resume normal activities immediately. Rarely, the patient may also experience slight discomfort and bruising along the course of the treated vein. If bruising occurs, it should improve in 1 to 2 weeks.

Are there any side effects from the procedure?

Some patients feel a tight, pulling sensation which they describe as a cord-like sensation. This can develop 1-4 weeks after treatment and resolves over time. Areas of light inflammation can be common after treatment. The areas can become red, swollen, tender and can sometimes feel warm. When the vein that is being treated lies closer to the surface, skin discoloration may occur.