VenaSeal™ Glue Ablation for Varicose Veins in Toronto & Richmond Hill
If you are seeking an advanced, non-thermal treatment for large varicose veins that eliminates heat, multiple needle sticks, and long recovery times, VenaSeal™ Glue Ablation is one of the most innovative medical solutions available today. At VeinCentre, we offer this cutting-edge treatment to seal diseased veins quickly and comfortably without surgical incisions or thermal energy.
Led by Dr. Luis Figueroa, board-certified Vascular Surgeon and Medical Director, VeinCentre provides specialized endovenous care across two modern clinics in Toronto (North York) and Richmond Hill. Unlike traditional thermal treatments (such as laser or radiofrequency ablation), VenaSeal™ uses a proprietary medical-grade adhesive to seal incompetent saphenous veins shut without requiring thermal heat or painful tumescent anesthesia injections along your leg.
Whether you suffer from heavy, aching legs, unsightly bulging varicose veins, or persistent swelling caused by Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI), VeinCentre delivers personalized, physician-led care to restore your leg health and circulation.
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What is Venaseal™ Glue Ablation?
VenaSeal™ (cyanoacrylate embolization) is an FDA and Health Canada-approved, catheter-based procedure designed to treat venous reflux in the main saphenous veins. It uses a small amount of specially formulated medical adhesive (glue) to hold the diseased vein walls together, closing the vessel permanently.
How VenaSeal™ Works Step-by-Step
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Ultrasound Guidance & Single Access Point: Dr. Luis Figueroa uses real-time duplex ultrasound to locate the diseased vein and numbs a single tiny spot on the leg. A thin catheter is inserted through a single micro-puncture.
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Catheter Positioning: Under ultrasound visualization, the catheter is guided precisely to the upper portion of the incompetent Great Saphenous Vein (GSV) or Small Saphenous Vein (SSV).
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Micro-Dispensing Medical Glue: Dr. Figueroa dispenses precise micro-amounts of the medical adhesive along the targeted vein segment while applying gentle external compression with the ultrasound probe for 30 seconds per segment.
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Immediate Vein Closure: The medical glue polymerizes almost instantly upon contact with blood, holding the vessel walls together and sealing the vein permanently shut.
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Natural Rerouting & Healing: Blood flow is immediately redirected to nearby healthy deep veins in your leg. Over time, your body safely absorbs the closed vein tissue.
Who is a Good Candidate for Venaseal™?
VenaSeal™ glue ablation may be the right choice for you if you're experiencing any of these symptoms:
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Visible, bulging varicose veins on your legs
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Aching, throbbing, or heaviness in your legs (especially after standing)
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Swelling in your ankles or lower legs by the end of the day
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Skin discoloration or changes around your ankles
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Restless legs or nighttime leg cramps
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Previous vein treatments that didn't provide lasting results
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Desire to avoid compression stockings or lengthy recovery
VenaSeal™ is especially ideal if: You have an active lifestyle and can't afford extended downtime, you're sensitive to heat-based treatments, or you've been told compression stockings are difficult to tolerate. It's also an excellent option for patients with darker skin tones, as there's minimal risk of skin discoloration.
The best way to know if VenaSeal™ is right for you is to schedule a consultation. During your visit, we'll recommend the most effective treatment for your unique situation.
Key Benefits of VenaSeal™ Over Other Vein Treatments
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No Heat / Non-Thermal: Because no heat is used, there is zero risk of skin burns or thermal nerve injury (numbness/tingling) along the leg.
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No Tumescent Local Anesthesia: Traditional laser or radiofrequency treatments require 10 to 20 local numbing injections along the leg. VenaSeal™ requires only a single numbing injection at the catheter insertion site.
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No Compression Stockings Required: Unlike thermal ablation or sclerotherapy, VenaSeal™ does not rely on post-procedure compression to keep the vein closed. Most patients do not need to wear medical compression stockings after treatment.
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Immediate Return to Normal Life: You can return to work, walking, driving, and routine daily activities immediately after stepping out of our clinic.
What to Expect: Before, During, and After your Venaseal™ Treatment
Before Your Procedure
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Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing (shorts or a skirt work well)
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Avoid applying lotions or creams to your legs on the day of treatment
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Take any regular medications as prescribed (unless Dr. Figueroa advises otherwise)
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Eat a light meal before your appointment
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Arrange for someone to drive you home (recommended, though not always required
During Your Procedure
You'll be awake and comfortable throughout the treatment. Most patients describe feeling only mild pressure as the adhesive is applied. There's no burning sensation like with heat-based treatments. You can even watch the procedure on the ultrasound screen if you're interested!
Pain level: Minimal—most patients rate it 2-3 out of 10 at most.
After Your Procedure
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Immediate: You'll walk for 10 minutes in our clinic to promote circulation, then you're free to go home.
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First 24 hours: Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting. Light walking is encouraged.
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After 24 hours: Resume all normal activities, including exercise, work, and daily routines.
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No compression stockings: Unlike other treatments, compression stockings are optional with VenaSeal™.
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Follow-up: Dr. Figueroa will schedule an ultrasound check at 1 week and 1 month to ensure optimal results.
Most patients return to work the same day or the next day. You can shower normally and resume exercise within 24 hours.
How the Venaseal™ Procedure Works
Here's what to expect during your VenaSeal™ treatment:
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Ultrasound Mapping: Dr. Figueroa uses advanced ultrasound imaging to map the affected veins and plan the precise treatment approach.
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Local Anesthesia: A single, small injection numbs the access point where the catheter will be inserted. This is the only needle you'll feel during the entire procedure.
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Catheter Insertion: A thin catheter is gently inserted into the diseased vein through a tiny opening (about the size of a spaghetti noodle).
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Medical Adhesive Application: The VenaSeal™ adhesive is delivered through the catheter at specific points along the vein. Dr. Figueroa applies gentle pressure to ensure the vein walls seal together.
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Immediate Results: Once sealed, blood is immediately rerouted to healthier veins. The treated vein is gradually absorbed by your body over time.
Total procedure time: 30-45 minutes, depending on the extent of your varicose veins.
Pricing of Glue Ablation
The price for one leg is $4,000 or $6,500 for both legs.
Glue Ablation Process - Medtronic
Contact Us
Book your FREE OHIP-covered vein consultation today
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT VENASEAL™ IN ONTARIO
Does VenaSeal™ hurt?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort. You'll feel a small pinch during the initial numbing injection, but the actual glue ablation is virtually painless. Unlike heat-based treatments, there's no burning sensation or need for multiple injections of anesthesia along the vein.
How long does the VenaSeal™ procedure take?
The procedure typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on the number and size of veins being treated. You'll spend about 1-1.5 hours total at our clinic, including preparation and post-procedure monitoring.
What is the recovery time after VenaSeal™?
Recovery is remarkably fast. Most patients return to normal activities immediately, with no restrictions after 24 hours. You can resume exercise, work, and daily routines much faster than with traditional vein surgery or even other minimally invasive treatments.
How soon can I expect to see results from VenaSeal™?
Many patients notice immediate relief from symptoms like heaviness and aching. The visible appearance of your legs continues to improve over 2-3 months as your body absorbs the treated veins. Final cosmetic results are typically visible within 3-6 months.
Is VenaSeal™ covered by OHIP or insurance in Ontario?
Coverage depends on your individual insurance plan and the medical necessity of treatment. VenaSeal™ is considered a medical procedure when varicose veins cause symptoms like pain, swelling, or skin changes. Our team will help you understand your coverage options and provide documentation for insurance claims. We also offer flexible financing options.
How much does VenaSeal™ cost in Ontario?
The price for one leg is $4,000 or $6,500 for both legs. During your consultation, Dr. Figueroa will provide a detailed treatment plan and cost estimate. We offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees, and our team can discuss financing options if needed.
Why should I choose Dr. Luis Figueroa for VenaSeal™ treatment?
Dr. Luis Figueroa is a fellowship-trained vascular surgeon with extensive experience in VenaSeal™ and other advanced vein treatments. Both of our locations use state-of-the-art technology, and we're committed to personalized care that puts your comfort and results first.
How does VenaSeal™ compare to other varicose vein treatments?
VenaSeal™ offers several advantages over other treatments: no compression stockings required, minimal anesthesia, no heat or burning, and faster recovery than radiofrequency or laser ablation. During your consultation, Dr. Figueroa will explain all treatment options and help you choose the best approach for your specific needs.