Varithena® Varicose Vein Treatment in Los Angeles & Walnut
Varithena® (polidocanol injectable foam) is the only FDA-approved injectable foam specifically indicated for the treatment of varicose veins caused by problems with the great saphenous vein (GSV), accessory saphenous veins, and other related veins of the superficial venous system above and below the knee. At Vein Care Medical Center in Los Angeles & Walnut, Dr. Michael D. Landau offers Varithena® as part of a comprehensive, individualized approach to venous insufficiency treatment — providing patients with a highly effective, minimally invasive option that delivers lasting symptom relief and visible cosmetic improvement.
Request an AppointmentHow Varithena® Works
Varithena® is delivered through a catheter or by direct injection into the diseased vein. The low-density microfoam fills the target segment of the vessel with precision, displacing blood and allowing the active agent (polidocanol) to make direct, sustained contact with the entire inner wall of the vein. The diseased vein then collapses, and the microfoam conveniently deactivates. Once the malfunctioning vein has collapsed, blood flow is automatically redirected to nearby healthy veins. Much like EVLA and other thermal ablation techniques, Varithena® uses ultrasound guidance to achieve precision targeting throughout the procedure.
Conditions Varithena® Can Treat
Varithena® effectively improves both the symptoms and the cosmetic appearance of varicose veins. It is indicated for veins that cause:
- Inflammation and redness
- Heaviness and lethargy in the legs
- Achiness
- Swelling
- Throbbing
- Skin irritation and itching
The Varithena® Procedure
Varithena® treatment is minimally invasive and non-surgical — no incisions are required. Dr. Landau typically numbs the injection site with a small amount of local anesthetic. No additional anesthesia is necessary. The foam is administered and takes effect quickly, collapsing the targeted vein within the session.
Procedure time: Typically less than one hour.
Anesthesia: Local anesthetic at injection site only — no tumescent anesthesia or sedation needed.
Recovery: Post-treatment bandages must remain dry and in place for 48 hours. Compression stockings must be worn on the treated leg for 4 weeks. Patients should walk at least 60 minutes or one mile per day over the course of the day for the first month and should avoid prolonged inactivity. Heavy exercise should be avoided for one week following treatment.
Number of sessions: Some patients achieve their goals in a single treatment. Additional sessions may be needed depending on the extent of the varicose vein network.
Is Varithena® FDA Approved?
Yes — Varithena® is the only FDA-approved foam varicose vein treatment for the great saphenous vein system. This regulatory approval is backed by rigorous clinical trial data demonstrating both its efficacy in closing the target vein and its impact on relieving associated symptoms. Patients can have confidence that Varithena® is a proven, well-studied treatment option.
Will Insurance Cover Varithena®?
Insurance carriers may cover Varithena® treatment when it is performed for medically necessary varicose vein disease with documented symptoms and venous insufficiency. Coverage depends on your specific plan and the severity of your condition. Vein Care Medical Center participates in Medicare and works with many insurance carriers. Our team can assist you in understanding your coverage before treatment begins.
Schedule Your Varithena® Consultation
To find out whether Varithena® is right for you, call (323) 934-9191 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Landau at our Los Angeles or Walnut office. Together, we will evaluate your veins and identify the most effective treatment approach for your specific anatomy and symptoms.
Varithena® — Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Varithena® different from other sclerotherapy treatments?
Varithena® is the only FDA-approved polidocanol injectable foam specifically designed for the treatment of the great saphenous vein system and its associated varicosities. Unlike standard foam sclerotherapy, Varithena® is a rigorously tested, pharmaceutical-grade product with a proprietary low-density microfoam formulation that provides consistent, uniform vein contact. It is backed by FDA clinical trial data and is approved for both symptom relief and cosmetic improvement of varicose veins.
How is Varithena® administered?
Varithena® is administered through a catheter or direct injection into the targeted vein segment under ultrasound guidance. Dr. Landau numbs the injection site with a small amount of local anesthetic. No tumescent anesthesia or sedation is needed. The entire procedure is performed in-office and typically takes less than one hour.
How quickly does Varithena® work?
Varithena® begins working immediately during the treatment session as the microfoam fills and collapses the target vein. Patients typically notice symptom improvement within the first few weeks following treatment. Cosmetic improvement — reduction of visible varicose veins — continues over the following months as the treated vein is absorbed by the body.
Can Varithena® be used on both the above- and below-knee great saphenous vein?
Yes — Varithena® is indicated for the treatment of varicosities associated with the great saphenous vein above and below the knee, as well as accessory saphenous veins and visible varicosities connected to the superficial venous system. Dr. Landau will use ultrasound imaging to map the specific segments to be treated and design a precise treatment plan.
Are there activity restrictions after Varithena® treatment?
Yes. Patients are asked to keep the post-treatment bandages dry and in place for 48 hours and wear compression stockings on the treated leg for 4 weeks. Daily walking (at least 60 minutes or one mile per day) is encouraged for the first month to support circulation. Heavy exercise and prolonged inactivity should be avoided for one week following the procedure.
How many Varithena® treatments will I need?
Some patients achieve their treatment goals in a single Varithena® session. Others — particularly those with extensive varicose vein involvement — may benefit from additional treatments. Dr. Landau will assess your anatomy and outline a realistic treatment plan that takes into account the number and location of veins to be addressed.
Can Varithena® be combined with other vein treatments?
Yes. Varithena® is often used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include sclerotherapy for residual surface veins or other endovenous procedures. Dr. Landau will coordinate all aspects of your treatment to ensure a thorough and efficient approach to eliminating your varicose veins.