Varicose Vein Treatment in Los Angeles & Walnut
Varicose veins are enlarged, bulging, and often discolored veins that appear most commonly in the legs and feet. Beyond being an aesthetic concern, they can cause significant physical discomfort and — when left untreated — may lead to serious complications including leg ulcers and chronic skin changes. At Vein Care Medical Center in Los Angeles & Walnut, Dr. Michael D. Landau is an expert in diagnosing and treating varicose veins using the most advanced minimally invasive procedures available today. Call (323) 934-9191 or request an appointment online to take the first step toward healthier legs.
Request an AppointmentWhat Causes Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins develop when the one-way valves inside your leg veins malfunction. Normally, these valves open to allow blood to travel upward toward the heart, then close to prevent it from flowing backward. When the valves weaken or become damaged — a condition called venous insufficiency — blood pools in the vein. The accumulating pressure causes the vein wall to stretch and bulge outward, becoming the twisted, rope-like varicose vein visible beneath the skin.
Risk factors for varicose veins include:
- Genetics and family history
- Prolonged standing or sitting, particularly in occupations requiring long hours on your feet
- Pregnancy — which increases blood volume and puts additional pressure on leg veins
- Obesity or excess body weight
- Advancing age — vein valves weaken over time
- Prior leg injuries or history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Signs and Symptoms of Varicose Veins
Many patients with varicose veins experience one or more of the following:
- Visible, twisted, bulging veins beneath the skin — typically dark blue or purple
- Aching, heaviness, or fatigue in the legs — especially after prolonged standing
- Throbbing, cramping, or burning sensations in the lower legs
- Leg swelling, particularly around the ankles and feet
- Itching around one or more of the varicose veins
- Skin discoloration or hardening near the ankle — an advanced sign of venous disease
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, Dr. Landau can help. Early intervention not only relieves symptoms but reduces the risk of long-term complications.
Varicose Vein Treatment Options at Vein Care Medical Center
Dr. Landau offers a comprehensive menu of advanced, non-surgical treatments for varicose veins. The most appropriate treatment will depend on the size and location of your varicose veins and the degree of underlying venous insufficiency:
- Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) — Laser energy delivered inside the vein closes the incompetent saphenous trunk vein driving varicose vein formation. Gold standard with 95%+ success rates.
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) / VenClose™ — Radiofrequency energy applied in precise segments seals the diseased vein with exceptional control and minimal discomfort.
- Varithena® — FDA-approved injectable foam that fills and closes the great saphenous vein system in a single treatment session.
- VenaSeal™ — Medical-grade adhesive that permanently seals the diseased saphenous vein without heat or tumescent anesthesia.
- ClariVein® — Mechanochemical ablation combining mechanical vein disruption and sclerosant for non-thermal closure without tumescent anesthesia.
- Foam Sclerotherapy — Injectable foam sclerosant for residual varicose veins and smaller vessels following endovenous treatment.
All procedures are performed in-office, require no general anesthesia, and allow patients to return to normal activity the same day or within 24 hours.
What Happens If Varicose Veins Are Left Untreated?
Varicose veins do not resolve on their own and often worsen over time. Without treatment, complications can include chronic leg swelling, skin thickening, skin discoloration, and in the most severe cases, venous leg ulcers — wounds that are notoriously difficult to heal. Addressing varicose veins early is always preferable to waiting for symptoms or complications to progress.
Schedule Your Varicose Vein Consultation Today
Vein Care Medical Center serves patients throughout Los Angeles & Walnut and the surrounding communities. Call (323) 934-9191 to book your evaluation with Dr. Michael D. Landau. We will assess your veins, explain all of your treatment options in clear terms, and develop a personalized plan to resolve your varicose veins safely and effectively.
Varicose Veins — Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between varicose veins and spider veins?
Varicose veins are large, bulging, twisted veins that protrude above the skin surface and are commonly associated with venous insufficiency and physical symptoms. Spider veins are smaller, superficial, flat vessels that form web-like red or purple patterns and are primarily a cosmetic concern — though they can be associated with underlying venous disease as well. Both can be treated effectively at Vein Care Medical Center.
Are varicose veins dangerous if left untreated?
Yes, varicose veins can progress and lead to serious complications if left untreated. These include chronic leg swelling, skin changes, hyperpigmentation, skin hardening (lipodermatosclerosis), and venous leg ulcers. In rare cases, varicose veins can also be associated with superficial thrombophlebitis (inflammation with clotting in the vein). Early treatment is the best way to prevent these outcomes.
Which varicose vein treatment is best?
The most effective treatment depends on which veins are affected and the degree of underlying venous insufficiency. For most patients, EVLA or Radiofrequency Ablation is the first-line treatment for the incompetent saphenous vein, followed by sclerotherapy for remaining surface veins. Dr. Landau will recommend the optimal approach after a thorough evaluation and ultrasound assessment.
Will insurance cover varicose vein treatment?
Varicose vein treatment that is medically necessary — meaning the veins are causing symptoms and venous insufficiency is documented — is covered by many insurance plans, including Medicare. Vein Care Medical Center participates in Medicare and works with numerous carriers. Our team can help verify your benefits and explain your financial options before treatment begins.
How long is the recovery after varicose vein treatment?
Recovery from minimally invasive varicose vein procedures at Vein Care Medical Center is minimal. Most patients return to light activities the same day and are back to normal routine within 24 to 48 hours. Compression stockings are worn for a prescribed period, and strenuous exercise is avoided for a short time. Dr. Landau will provide specific post-treatment instructions tailored to the procedure performed.
Can varicose veins come back after treatment?
The specific veins treated are permanently closed and will not return. New varicose veins can develop over time, however, particularly in patients with strong genetic risk factors or persistent standing. Follow-up evaluations with Dr. Landau are recommended to monitor for new vessel formation and address any emerging concerns early.
Do I need an ultrasound before varicose vein treatment?
Yes — Dr. Landau uses duplex ultrasound imaging to map your venous anatomy, identify which veins are refluxing, and plan the most precise and effective treatment approach. Ultrasound guidance is also used during most endovenous procedures to ensure accurate catheter placement and maximize safety. This diagnostic step is essential to achieving optimal, long-lasting results.