Radiofrequency Vein Ablation | Varicose Vein Removal Therapy | Austin Texas

What is Radiofrequency Vein Ablation?

Radiofrequency Vein Ablation also referred to as the VNUS Venefit Procedure or the ClosureFast Procedure is a revolutionary new treatment for varicose veins that utilizes a new technology known as radiofrequency ablation to safely remove varicose veins from the legs. It is a modern alternative to traditional surgical procedures that were used to removed varicose veins in the past. VNUS Venefit utilizes a small radiofrequency catheter that delivers electrical energy in the form of radio waves directly to the vein wall in order to ablate the varicose veins. The technology was invented by the company Covidien, which is focused on expanding new vein treatment technology. The radiofrequency ablation of varicose veins typically involves a 30-minute outpatient procedure performed at one of our Austin Vein Centers.

How is Radiofrequency Vein Ablation Performed?

Only local anesthesia with Xylocaine is needed for this quick and safe procedure. During radiofrequency vein ablation, an ultrasound is utilized to help deliver the radio-wave energy to the varicose vein in a focused fashion. The veins then collapse as a result of the radiofrequency energy. The blood that was in the diseased veins is immediately and automatically re-routed to the other healthy veins in the legs. Results are seen almost immediately. The majority of our patients report only minimal pain associated with the procedure. See the video below for a more detailed description and animation of the procedure.

The Latest Advances in Varicose Vein Treatments

At Austin Vein Specialists, we take advantage of this latest FDA-approved Venefit technology to treat many of our patients with varicose vein disease. In the past, most such patients with varicose veins required invasive vein surgery, such as vein stripping and vein phlebectomy, to cure them of their varicose veins. With this new VNUS radiofrequency technology, the veins can usually be removed non-surgically. This typically allows the patient’s to avoid surgery, scars, and prolonged recovery times. Also, the risk of procedure complications is minimized with the use of this new modern technology. VNUS Venfit vein ablation, along with EVLT laser therapy, has become the most common treatment in the US for varicose veins and saphenous vein reflux. It has been proven in medical studies to be very safe and effective and it is now considered the preferred method of treating varicose vein disease.

Recovery & Results After the VNUS Venefit Procedure

Following VNUS / Venefit, patients can typically return to relatively normal activities immediately, although exercise and other strenuous activities should be avoided for 7 to 14 days to improve the efficacy of treatment. Compression stockings or support bandages may need to be worn for up to 2 weeks after the procedure, based on the recommendations of your doctor. Most patients experience some degree of mild bruising and some may experience some mild discomfort at the treatment sites.

Since bruising of the skin and further shrinkage of the varicose veins may occur, it can take several weeks before the true results of VNUS / Venefit are visible. The procedure has a 95% success rate in ablating the treated veins. Most patients are satisfied with the results of this procedure. Some patients desire additional therapy, including sclerotherapy, to achieve the desired cosmetic result that they are looking for long-term.

Although VNUS / Venefit is a safe procedure that has been successfully performed by physicians for many years, there are certain risks and side effects associated with any medical procedure. During your consultation with our doctor he will discuss these possible side effects with you and answer any other concerns that you may have about the vein procedure.

Candidates for the VNUS / Venefit Procedure

Most patients with varicose veins are good candidates for the radiofrequency ablation procedure, although the procedure should not be performed on pregnant women or patients who have had a recent history of blood clots. An ultrasound of your leg veins is typically performed to determine if you are a good candidate for this vein treatment. If you are interested in the Venefit ClosureFast radiofrequency vein ablation procedure or other vein treatments and live in the Austin, Cedar Park, Lakeway, Pflugerville, or Round Rock area, please call or email us today to schedule a consultation.

Questions? Contact Us!

If you have any questions or if you would like to learn more about the services that we provide, please call us or complete the “Contact Us” form on this page and will respond back to you as quickly as possible. Thank you!

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Spider Veins

Varicose Veins

Face / Nose Veins

Cosmetic Vein Treatment

Laser Therapy

Sclerotherapy

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Patient Testimonials

I saw Dr.Gotvald for treatment of a vascular malformation. He not only diagnosed the malformation, he was the only doctor to find a defective valve in my leg. Before the two treatments I had I was unable to walk or stand for long distances, now I was able to walk 12 miles on a recent vacation!

He and his staff were professional and so kind. They worked with my insurance and made the process so smooth. I've had insurance issues in the past and they took all the stress out of the situation. The front office staff answered all my questions and never made me feel bad for calling (a lot).

I highly recommend Austin Vein Specialists.

Dr. Gotvald did some treatment on me a number of years ago, and I was happy with his results so I returned when I needed other treatments performed.

Dr. Gotvald is great at what he does. He is intimately familiar with his specialty, immediately recognizes any issues and has a plan to deal with them. He tells you how the plan will likely progress and he is pretty accurate in his initial assessment.

He performs the procedures with skill and minimizes any discomfort. His entire staff is courteous, professional, and considerate. It is a bit of a drive for me to fight through traffic but always worth it to me for the care that the doctor and staff provide.

An outstanding experience all around. The staff, along with Dr. G, we fabulous. Always ready upon my arrival, everything prepped and ready to go.

My health and well being were at the top of the list on each visit. Dr. G answered any and all questions in a friendly way, making sure I not only understood the upcoming procedures, but was also comfortable with expectations and results. I saw immediate results and changes to my legs after my vein ablation. I even lost 10 pounds total body weight....mostly likely from my malfunctioning legs.

I give Dr. G and all of his staff my highest recommendation and praise. What a great group!!

If you have any leg/ankle swelling, varicose or other vein issues, any family history of Stroke or blood clots, Dr. Gotvold is the Doctor you need to see.

I am thoroughly convinced that Dr. Gotvold saved my life between 2016-17, starting with “routine”varicose vein treatment, but proceeding to his discovery of extensive blood clots in left leg, immediately, that day, prescribing blood thinner, and then, subsequently from regular checkup ultrasound, finding blood clots in right leg following knee replacement surgery.

In short, Dr. Gotvold knows what he’s doing, and he does not cut corners in getting to the bottom of your problems.

I want to thank the entire staff for the great care. Super excited about wearing dresses again. Highly recommend for all vein treatments.

The staff and doctor are fabulous and take their time with you. He explains everything in detail and really relaxes you with great music during session.

Highly recommend this office. A former doctor at a different office that I went to tried to cut my legs up (old way). With my current treatments you cannot tell where my injections were placed.

Thank you a million times over.

Dr. Gotvald and his staff are fantastic!

I had laser vein ablation done at his office several years ago to treat venous insufficiency, and have recently returned for sclerotherapy treatments. He explains everything thoroughly throughout the process and answers any questions I might have.

Ruby at the front desk is really helpful with scheduling and answering insurance/billing questions. Everyone is friendly, welcoming, and professional. The treatment rooms and waiting area are clean and comfortable, and they are great with being on time.

Had a fabulous experience with Dr Gotvald and his staff! They were super welcoming and always willing to answer questions that I had. They clearly communicated cost before any procedures and took time to make sure that I understood all charges.

Dr Gotvald is very knowledgeable and amazing at communicating your options. My insurance approved my surgeries which was an added bonus.

I had multiple procedures by Dr Gotvald and have had great results from all of them. My legs look better and most of all feel better than they have in over decade. I recommend this office to anyone looking for vein treatments with a caring and competent doctor and staff!

"My goal as a vein physician is to achieve complete satisfaction for every patient through exceptional care"

Dr. Joel Gotvald, MD, FACS, FSVS, RPVI

Board-Certified Vascular Surgeon & Certified Vein Specialist

Diplomate of the American Board of Surgery
Certified Vein Specialists