Varithena®: Treat Varicose Veins with Polidocanol Injectable Foam
Varithena (polidocanol injectable foam) is an FDA-approved, non-surgical treatment for varicose veins. The microfoam fills and seals diseased veins in a single in-office visit — no general anesthesia, no incisions, minimal downtime.
What Is Varithena?
Varithena is an FDA-approved polidocanol injectable foam used to treat varicose veins caused by malfunctions with the great saphenous vein and other venous problems. Unlike liquid sclerotherapy, Varithena's microfoam consistency — similar to shaving cream — ensures it fills the entire vein and reaches the vein walls for more effective sealing.
Under ultrasound guidance, your vein specialist carefully injects small amounts of Varithena directly into the refluxing vein. The polidocanol solution causes the vein walls to contract and seal shut. The treated vein scars and eventually fades into local tissues, while blood reroutes to healthier veins.
America's Vein Doctors offers foam sclerotherapy with Varithena performed by board-certified vein specialists. The procedure typically takes less than an hour and requires no incisions or general anesthesia.
Benefits of Varithena
- Gentle — no surgery, no general anesthesia
- Minimal downtime — return to activities same day
- Quick procedure — typically under one hour
- Usually one treatment session is sufficient
- No incisions required
- Ultrasound-guided for precision and safety
- Effective for great saphenous vein reflux
- May be covered by insurance
What to Expect: Your Varithena Treatment
Consultation & Preparation
Your vein specialist will perform a thorough leg screening including imaging tests and physical examination to confirm your candidacy for Varithena. Review any medications you're taking — some, like blood thinners, may require temporary adjustment before the procedure.
The Procedure
You'll lie on your back with legs slightly elevated. After cleaning the treatment area, a duplex ultrasound guides the injection of small amounts of Varithena into the diseased vein. The foam fills the vein, treats the walls, and prompts it to seal off. A compression pad is applied to the injection site.
Recovery & Follow-Up
Our team observes you for about 10 minutes post-procedure. Compression bandages are applied and worn for 2 weeks. Walk at least 10 minutes daily, avoid strenuous exercise, and avoid long periods of inactivity. A follow-up visit at 2 weeks assesses results and determines if any additional treatment is needed.
Varithena Foam vs. Liquid Sclerotherapy
| Feature | Varithena (Foam) | Liquid Sclerotherapy |
|---|---|---|
| Consistency | Foam (microfoam) | Liquid |
| Vein Wall Contact | Full — fills entire vein | Partial — can be diluted by blood |
| Dose Required | Smaller dose effective | Larger volume needed |
| Ultrasound Guidance | Yes | Sometimes |
| Best For | Larger varicose veins / GSV reflux | Spider veins / small varicosities |
| Procedure Time | Under 1 hour | 30–45 minutes |
| Downtime | Minimal — same day return | Minimal — same day return |
| Insurance Coverage | May be covered | Cosmetic — usually not covered |
Experience Pain-Free, Vein-Free Days
Book a free vein screening to find out if Varithena is right for you. Our specialists will review your insurance and recommend the best treatment option.
Book Free Vein ScreeningFrequently Asked Questions
What is Varithena (Polidocanol Injectable Foam)?
How is Varithena different from regular sclerotherapy?
Is Varithena covered by insurance?
Does Varithena hurt?
How effective is Varithena?
What is recovery like after Varithena?
Ready to Treat Your Varicose Veins with Varithena?
Schedule a free vein screening and find out if Varithena (polidocanol injectable foam) is the right choice for you.