da Re-FitVaricose Vein Treatment in Stages
The Same Diagnosis, Different Layers
Leg veins are not a single structure. Deep beneath the skin lie the deep veins. Above them runs the saphenous vein — the large superficial vein where most varicose vein problems begin. Branching from it are reticular veins, and closest to the surface are the fine telangiectasias visible through the skin.
When blood stops flowing upward and begins to reflux, that pressure travels downward through these layers in sequence. A problem that starts in the large vein spreads to the branches, and eventually to the visible spider veins.
This is why treatment differs by layer. Removing visible spider veins does not address the underlying cause, and treating only the large vein leaves the visible problem untouched.
At da Re-Fit Clinic, we treat varicose veins in three stages.
STAGE 1
Treating the Source Vein
This stage addresses saphenous vein reflux — where the problem begins.
We first map the veins with Doppler ultrasound to determine which vessel is refluxing and to what degree, then close that vein to stop the reflux. The method depends on the vein's location, diameter, and condition.
- Endovenous laser / radiofrequency ablation — closes the vein using controlled heat
- VenaSeal — closes the vein with medical adhesive, without heat
- ClariVein / Flebogrif (MOCA) — combines mechanical stimulation with a sclerosing agent, without heat
Which method suits a given patient is determined by diagnosis, and in many cases two or more methods are combined in a single treatment plan.
Read moreTreating the Source Vein — ablation, VenaSeal, MOCA →STAGE 2
Treating the Branch Veins
Even after the source vein is closed, reticular veins branching from it often remain. Though smaller than the saphenous vein, if left untreated they contribute to leg heaviness and to the veins visible through the skin.
This stage uses ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy — injecting a sclerosing agent with ultrasound guidance so that veins below the visible surface can be treated precisely.
Read moreTreating the Branch Veins — ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy →STAGE 3
Telangiectasia & Leg Toning
The final stage addresses the fine vessels visible through the skin — telangiectasia, often called spider veins.
This stage is frequently dismissed as cosmetic. In practice, many patients with these vessels report localized pain and burning sensations. And when the underlying stages are left untreated, telangiectasia tends to recur.
At da Re-Fit Clinic this stage is treated with a long-pulsed 1064nm Nd:YAG laser (VARITON-S). Leg vessels sit deeper than facial vessels, and Asian skin carries relatively more melanin — which makes wavelength selection and treatment settings decisive for both safety and outcome.
This protocol was presented as an invited oral lecture at the Asian Venous Forum 2026 in Fukushima, Japan.
Read more1064nm Laser Treatment for Leg Telangiectasia →Why All Three Stages Matter
Treating only one stage often leaves the remaining problems in place, or allows them to return.
At da Re-Fit Clinic we treat all three stages — from the source vein through to the vessels visible on the skin. During diagnosis we identify which layers are involved, then plan the necessary stages in sequence.
For patients traveling to Korea, this matters practically: because all three stages are handled at one clinic, treatment can be planned around your schedule rather than split across multiple providers. The number of visits required depends on which stages are involved, and we discuss this during your initial consultation so you can plan accordingly.
Getting Started
Which stage applies to you can only be determined through examination. Whether or not veins are visible on the surface, symptoms such as heaviness, aching, or night cramps in the legs are worth having evaluated.
Consultations are available in English, and our staff can assist with scheduling before you arrive.
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