If you’re considering varicose vein treatment, you’re probably wondering, “How much is this going to hurt?”

The good news is that the answer, generally speaking, is “not a lot.” Today’s vein treatments are significantly different from those of yesteryear. They’re typically quick and minimally painful, and most patients are able to return to work or their normal day-to-day activities soon after the procedure is complete.

Still, you may feel unsatisfied with that answer. Everyone has a different pain tolerance, so hearing “This won’t hurt” isn’t actually the most satisfying response when you ask about pain levels.

As vein specialists in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area, we’ve heard all sorts of concerns about pain and vein treatment.

In this article, we’ll break down some common vein treatment procedures and what they feel like. From there, you can get a better sense of what to expect when it comes time for your own procedure.

What Does Varithena Feel Like?

Varithena is a foam that is injected into an unhealthy vein. This process is guided by ultrasound. After the foam is injected, the vein closes, forcing blood to reroute through healthier veins. 

With Varithena, the first pain one feels is generally the pinch of the injection. As the foam enters the vein, some patients experience temporary sensations of building pressure or a sudden “fullness.” Others report burning or cramping. All of these symptoms are largely temporary.

Post-treatment, one’s legs may feel tender, tight, or mildly achy. Some patients also report feelings of discomfort around the injection site or mild bruising. These effects are generally temporary and will improve as the surrounding tissue recovers. 

What Does Endovenous Thermal Ablation Feel Like?

Endovenous thermal ablation works differently to Varithena. Instead of using a foam, endovenous thermal ablation closes a vein using laser or radiofrequency energy. A local anesthetic numbs pain as a thin catheter is placed into the vein under ultrasound guidance. Then, the heat is applied, closing the vein.

Given that a local anesthetic is often used, few patients report pain or discomfort during the actual procedure. Instead, many patients report that the more uncomfortable part is the numbing process. The multiple injections involved can feel like several brief pinches or stings along the legs.

While the procedure is underway, you may feel pressure, but you should not feel the vein itself being heated.

Once the procedure is complete, bruising, soreness, or a pulling sensation along the closed vein may occur. Some patients say this feels like a bruise or a tight cord under the skin. Symptoms improve as the patient recovers.

What Does VenaSeal Feel Like?

VenaSeal is a nonthermal treatment that works by closing an unhealthy vein with medical adhesive. A thin catheter is inserted into the vein, and small amounts of adhesive are placed along the vein. From there, external pressure brings the vein walls together, sealing them.

A patient may feel a needle pinch as the vein is accessed. There also may be mild catheter pressure, as well as pressure from the ultrasound probe or clinician’s hand.

After the procedure, some patients experience bruising, tenderness, tightness, or localized inflammation. That said, these are typically minor, and many are able to quickly return to normal activities. 

What Does Ambulatory Phlebectomy Feel Like?

Ambulatory phlebectomy is a procedure in which bulging veins close to the skin are removed. First, a specialist numbs the skin. Then, they make a small puncture and remove sections of the vein with a specialized instrument.

After the burning or stinging of the anesthetic wears off, the area is numb. Given this, patients rarely report pain during the actual removal, though some may feel sensations of pressure, movement, or tugging beneath the skin.

Once the procedure is complete, it’s common for bruising to develop. It’s also common for the area to be tender or sore for several days. 

How Painful Is Varicose Vein Treatment Overall?

As should be clear from the above descriptions, pain associated with varicose vein treatment is generally brief and minimal. 

Most patients should expect brief discomfort during their procedure. However, it’s unlikely that a patient will experience severe or prolonged pain.

If you’re wondering which procedure is best for you, the answer depends on your specific needs. By scheduling a vein consultation, you can determine what specific vein issues you have, as well as the best way to start the process of resolving them. Get in contact today to set up an appointment.