Treating Varicose Veins
Millions of Americans suffer from varicose veins. In the past, these enlarged veins were usually treated with an invasive and complex procedure called vein stripping. During vein stripping, a small incision is made and a flexible instrument is used to grasp and remove the damaged vein. Procedures like this would typically require a hospital stay and several weeks of recovery. With recent medical advancements, less-invasive procedures are now available.
Latest innovations have paved the way for new varicose vein treatments with recovery times that are far less extensive. Even with a less invasive treatment, knowing what to expect after your varicose vein treatment can help alleviate anxiety before undergoing a procedure.
After the Procedure
The speed of recovery as well as the care needed after the procedure depends greatly on the type of vein treatment.
Endovenous Laser Therapy
Endovenous laser Therapy (EVLT) is a minimally-invasive laser treatment for varicose veins that is typically done under local anesthesia. After the procedure, you can expect your legs to be wrapped in bandages or compression stockings. You may be recommended to wear these compression garments for up to two weeks after the procedure. These stockings can help along the recovery process as well as reduce the pain. You may also be instructed by your doctor to avoid hot baths, straining, or heavy lifting for up to two weeks after EVLT
You may experience a slight discomfort or tenderness on the inner thigh or groin area. This can usually be easily alleviated with the help of over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen. If you experience swelling, this can be reduced by elevating the legs above the heart for about 15 minutes.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is used for treating smaller spider veins. It involves injecting a solutions into a vein, causing it to collapse and fade away over time. Typically the procedure is done in 30 minutes or less, and doesn’t require any recovery period. You can walk immediately after your procedure, although you will want to avoid strenuous activities for a week. You may be advised to walk for at least 10 minutes a day and avoid sitting or lying down for longer periods of time. Wearing of compression stockings for a short period of time may also be advised by your doctor.
Ambulatory Phlebectomy
With ambulatory phlebectomy, veins close to the skin’s surface are removed with a small hook through pinhole punctures. Local anesthetic is used. Like sclerotherapy, you can walk immediately after undergoing ambulatory phlebectomy. Aside from the temporary bruising, swelling, and minimal pain, there are no other abnormalities expected to be experienced after the procedure. In fact, you can carry on with your usual activities after the procedure.
At Premier Vein Clinics in Knoxville our primary goal is to improve the quality of life for our patients and eliminate leg pain while making treatment as comfortable as possible. The Premier Vein Clinics staff is committed to making your treatment comfortable while achieving the best possible outcomes.
We are offering free screenings until the end of March! Request your FREE varicose vein screening appointment online today or call (865) 588-8229.
