Today’s varicose vein treatments will get you back to your routine in no time. But there are things you can do to ensure a quick and successful recovery.
Modern varicose vein treatments are minimally invasive, requiring only a tiny amount of local anesthesia. Unlike varicose vein treatments of the past, today’s procedures don’t need a lengthy hospital stay. Instead, they are performed within a brief outpatient office visit that typically lasts around an hour. Although you can return to your normal activities immediately afterward with few restrictions, you’ll still need time to recover fully, as with most medical procedures.
Determining how much time off you’ll need depends on the severity of your varicose veins and the type of procedure you had.
Common treatments to eliminate varicose veins include sclerotherapy, thermal ablation, and ambulatory phlebectomy.
With any of these procedures, you might experience minor swelling, bruising, and tenderness at the treatment site for a few days. If there is any bleeding at all, it should be minimal. Speak to your doctor about taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or Motrin to relieve discomfort. You may also feel a slight pulling sensation in the leg caused by the treated vein shrinking.
When can I return to work? This will depend on your occupation. Do you work at a job where you need to stand for long hours or one that is physically demanding? Speak to your doctor about the need to take time off based on the demands of your job. Do you work at a desk job? You could return to work immediately, with a few restrictions. Try to get up from your seat often or flex your ankles regularly to encourage blood flow through your legs. It will help with the healing process.
When can I start exercising again? If your workout routine involves running or weightlifting, you should refrain from exercising for seven to 10 days. During your recovery time, avoid lifting any object over 20 pounds. Strenuous exercise may cause the treated vein to bleed or fail to close completely. However, gentle aerobic activities such as walking, biking, and swimming can promote circulation in the veins and prevent the blood from pooling. Start slowly with a 10-minute walk, and work up to 30 minutes five times a week.
What can I do to speed up the healing process? After the procedure, your doctor will recommend you wear compression stockings. These tight elastic garments gently squeeze the veins so blood flows smoothly. You can also elevate your legs above your heart to direct the blood back to the heart. Both activities will prevent blood from pooling, which would cause swelling. As mentioned previously, walking is a great way to promote healing and get your blood pumping.
You should notice an immediate reduction in pain and swelling after treatment. One month after the procedure, you will have a follow-up appointment to assess how you are healing. You should no longer see and feel signs of varicose veins within six months.
Any day is a good day to treat your varicose veins! The physicians at Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) are experts in treating all types of venous disease and can navigate this journey with you every step of the way. From diagnosis to treatment, we’ll ensure you have a successful recovery with as little downtime as possible.
Contact one of our offices today for a consultation, or call 240-965-3915 to speak to a dedicated Patient Services Representative. You can also easily schedule online.
Varicose veins, those bulging, twisting networks that often appear on the lower leg, are a relatively common condition for both men and women in the middle years of life. Risk factors for varicose veins include heredity, weight gain and prolonged periods of standing or sitting in the same position. Some occupations that require long periods on your feet can increase your chances for developing varicose veins as well.
