After having radiofrequency occlusion on one leg, how long before the same procedure can be performed on the opposite leg?

I have minor reflux on both calves (small saphenous vein) and will be scheduled for VNUS radiofrequency occlusion. My doctor said we could do one leg first and another leg the next day. Is it too soon? I'm worried about the chance of blood clot (DVT). After having the procedure performed on one leg, how soon can the same procedure can be done on the opposite leg?

Answers from doctors (6)


More About Doctor Allure Medical

Published on Dec 10, 2018

The timing doesn’t matter. Most people do not like to do it the same day because it feels weird to have 2 numb calves. That said, there are no timing issues related to a blood clot in opposite legs.

Answered by Allure Medical (View Profile)

The timing doesn’t matter. Most people do not like to do it the same day because it feels weird to have 2 numb calves. That said, there are no timing issues related to a blood clot in opposite legs.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Lezara Laser and Vein Care

Published on Aug 09, 2017

It can be done on the same day but insurance companies may not pay the same if done on the same day.

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Answered by Lezara Laser and Vein Care

It can be done on the same day but insurance companies may not pay the same if done on the same day.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Lafayette Regional Vein & Laser Center

Published on Aug 15, 2014

You could do both procedures in the same day if necessary, but the reality is that it is not common practice due to time on surgical table, amount of anesthesia that is administered. With the Venefit procedure you will be in compression and walking without significant restrictions.

Your risk of blood clot is a personal risk. You may assess your specific risk by taking the Caprini DVT Risk Assessment. This may be found at the Apple App Store and downloaded for free. The risk of blood clot from the procedure itself is close to 1%. The bigger question is what benefit your are expecting to see with treatment? Are you having significant symptoms? If your symptoms improve with compression, walking, and elevation of the legs above your heart, you will likely see significant reduction in your symptoms.

If you are concerned about the DVT risk, the diagnosis, or the treatment options, it never hurts to seek a second opinion.

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Answered by Lafayette Regional Vein & Laser Center

You could do both procedures in the same day if necessary, but the reality is that it is not common practice due to time on surgical table, amount of anesthesia that is administered. With the Venefit procedure you will be in compression and walking without significant restrictions.

Your risk of blood clot is a personal risk. You may assess your specific risk by taking the Caprini DVT Risk Assessment. This may be found at the Apple App Store and downloaded for free. The risk of blood clot from the procedure itself is close to 1%. The bigger question is what benefit your are expecting to see with treatment? Are you having significant symptoms? If your symptoms improve with compression, walking, and elevation of the legs above your heart, you will likely see significant reduction in your symptoms.

If you are concerned about the DVT risk, the diagnosis, or the treatment options, it never hurts to seek a second opinion.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Jul 30, 2014

The timing of closure procedures varies from physician to physician but there is no reason why you could not do both procedures one day after the other.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

The timing of closure procedures varies from physician to physician but there is no reason why you could not do both procedures one day after the other.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Lakeshore Veins and Wellness

Published on Jul 30, 2014

Radio Frequency Ablation can be performed on the opposite leg in the next day or two, but there is also no rush. Some patients have work or other constraints and need to get the procedures done in a short time frame so they can return to normal activity. Other patients prefer to completely recover from one procedure before having a second procedure. Both timelines are medically appropriate. We suggest you discuss with your physician your concerns and preferences.

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Answered by Lakeshore Veins and Wellness

Radio Frequency Ablation can be performed on the opposite leg in the next day or two, but there is also no rush. Some patients have work or other constraints and need to get the procedures done in a short time frame so they can return to normal activity. Other patients prefer to completely recover from one procedure before having a second procedure. Both timelines are medically appropriate. We suggest you discuss with your physician your concerns and preferences.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


You can do them both the same day if you wanted to. The next day will be fine.

Answered by HeartCare Associates Vein Center (View Profile)

You can do them both the same day if you wanted to. The next day will be fine.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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