Frequently Asked Questions
Vein Treatments
What types of treatments do you offer for varicose veins?
Treatment recommendations depend on the severity of the vein disease, your symptoms, ultrasound findings and individual circumstances.
Better Veins Clinic offers a range of modern, minimally invasive treatments for varicose veins, including:
• Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) • Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy (UGS) • Microsclerotherapy • Compression therapy and conservative management where appropriate
A consultation and, in many cases, an ultrasound assessment are required to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. Dr Nicholas Teo will discuss the available options, expected outcomes, recovery considerations and costs based on your individual circumstances.
What is Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)?
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) is a minimally invasive treatment used to treat underlying varicose veins and venous reflux.
The procedure involves placing a laser fibre into the affected vein under ultrasound guidance. The laser energy seals the vein closed, allowing blood to be redirected through healthier veins.
EVLA is typically performed under local anaesthetic and does not usually require a hospital admission.
What is Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy (UGS)?
Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy (UGS) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat abnormal veins beneath the skin.
Using ultrasound guidance, a specialised solution is injected into the affected vein, causing it to seal and gradually be absorbed by the body over time.
UGS is commonly used to treat residual varicose veins, tributary veins and certain patterns of venous disease.
What is Microsclerotherapy?
Microsclerotherapy is a treatment commonly used for spider veins and small superficial veins.
A specialised solution is injected into the affected veins using a very fine needle, causing the veins to gradually fade over time.
Multiple treatment sessions may be required depending on the extent of the veins being treated.
Do you use glue treatments (VenaSeal)?
No.
Better Veins Clinic does not currently offer glue treatments such as VenaSeal.
Treatment recommendations are based on your symptoms, ultrasound findings and individual circumstances. Dr Nicholas Teo will discuss the available treatment options and their relative advantages and disadvantages during your consultation.
Do you use MOCA (Clarivein)?
No.
Better Veins Clinic does not currently offer Mechanochemical Ablation (MOCA), including Clarivein.
Treatment recommendations are tailored to the individual patient and may include Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA), Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy (UGS), Microsclerotherapy, compression therapy or conservative management where appropriate.
Why do you recommend laser treatment?
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) is a well-established, minimally invasive treatment for underlying venous reflux and varicose veins.
At Better Veins Clinic, EVLA is our preferred treatment for significant truncal venous reflux due to its strong evidence base, excellent long-term outcomes and ability to be performed under local anaesthetic.
The procedure is performed under ultrasound guidance and local anaesthetic, allowing most patients to return to normal daily activities shortly afterwards.
Not all patients require laser treatment, and the most appropriate treatment depends on your symptoms, examination findings and ultrasound results.
Do I need surgery for varicose veins?
Most modern vein treatments do not require traditional surgery.
Procedures such as Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA), Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy (UGS) and Microsclerotherapy are minimally invasive treatments that can typically be performed in the clinic without a hospital admission.
The most appropriate treatment depends on your symptoms, examination findings and ultrasound results.
Which treatment is right for me?
The most appropriate treatment depends on your symptoms, examination findings, ultrasound results and treatment goals.
Treatment options may include Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA), Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy (UGS), Microsclerotherapy, compression therapy or conservative management.
Dr Nicholas Teo will discuss the available options and provide personalised recommendations during your consultation.
How long does treatment take?
Treatment times vary depending on the procedure and complexity of the condition.
Many vein treatments can be performed in the clinic and are typically completed within 30 to 90 minutes. Your expected treatment duration will be discussed during your consultation.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments required varies between patients and depends on the severity of the condition and treatment goals.
Some patients achieve their desired outcome with a single treatment, while others may benefit from a staged treatment approach involving multiple sessions.
Can both legs be treated at the same time?
In many cases, yes.
Whether one or both legs are treated at the same time depends on the severity of the condition, treatment type, patient preference and clinical considerations. Dr Nicholas Teo will discuss the most appropriate approach for your circumstances.
What are the risks of treatment?
All medical procedures carry risks.
Potential risks vary depending on the treatment performed but may include bruising, discomfort, swelling, pigmentation, inflammation, infection, nerve irritation, blood clots and recurrence of vein disease.
Dr Nicholas Teo will discuss the specific risks, benefits and alternatives relevant to your treatment plan before proceeding.
Are there alternatives to treatment?
Yes.
Depending on your condition, alternatives may include observation, lifestyle measures, exercise, weight management, compression therapy and symptom management.
Not all vein conditions require procedural treatment, and management recommendations will be tailored to your individual circumstances.
Are results guaranteed?
No medical treatment can guarantee a particular outcome.
While many patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms or the appearance of their veins following treatment, results can vary depending on the underlying condition, severity of disease, individual healing factors and adherence to post-treatment instructions.
During your consultation, Dr Nicholas Teo will discuss the expected benefits, limitations, risks and realistic treatment goals based on your individual circumstances.
All medical procedures carry risks, and treatment outcomes cannot be guaranteed.