Varicose Vein Treatments - FAQs

These procedures do not require you to take any time off of work. You will likely need to take an anti-inflammatory type medication (Ibuprofen) to help with the discomfort for a few days but it is important to be up and moving around after this procedure.

This is different for each patient. Many patients have a great result following treatment of varicose veins. There are some patients who have had varicose vein problems for many years who will have recurrent symptoms in the future after initial treatment. This may occur months or years after the treatment. Due to the complexity of varicose veins we will customize a plan for each patient. If you do notice that your symptoms return, please call our office to be evaluated.

It is common to have bruising after the procedure. Many patients are also tender in the area which was treated. Patients often describe a feeling of pulling like there is a cord under the skin which needs to be stretched. These are all common experiences after the procedure and respond well to anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen, wearing compression hose, and walking.

Once we have treated your varicose veins, it is likely that you will notice areas which are tender to the touch and firm under the skin. Some patients describe this as a rope under the skin or small knots. These represent veins which have clotted off because there is no longer blood flowing through them. This is normal and over the next few weeks/months your body will reabsorb this tissue. Anti-inflammatory medications, wearing your compression hose, and walking will help make you feel more comfortable as your body works to heal these areas. If you notice that your leg is RED, HOT, and SWOLLEN or that there is any DRAINAGE from the incision sites we would like you to let us know so that we can evaluate you for an infection or deep venous thrombosis (a dangerous blood clot).

We recommend walking for 30 minutes twice a day for two weeks following your procedure to help the healing process. We would like you to limit lifting more than 20 pounds for two weeks. Exercises like running, use of the treadmill, bicycle, and elliptical are permitted. We also recommend decreasing any abdominal workouts for the two week period after your procedure.

We will perform a follow-up ultrasound in our office 2 weeks after endovenous laser therapy and foam sclerotherpy. This will allow us to evaluate the closure of your veins and anticipate any further procedures that may need to be done.

You will have a follow-up appointment 2 weeks after your procedure. If no further interventions are necessary and you have responded well to treatment, you will not require any further follow-up. You should call us for an appointment in the future if you notice return of symptoms.