Care after varicose veins surgery

These days, due to the sedentary lifestyle followed by many, varicose veins are becoming a common problem. Mild cases can be solved with the help of home remedies and simple exercises. However, the more complex cases might need some kind of varicose veins treatment like surgery. Such surgical techniques help in alleviating pain in extreme cases. You should always go to a vein specialist and make sure that you follow their suggestions, dos and don’ts. Here we will discuss the basic care that should be taken after a varicose veins surgery –

Recovery time – There are two most common surgeries that patients opt for. These are Ambulatory Phlebectomy or Endovenous laser treatments. These are usually outpatient procedures wherein you can go back home the same day. However, more complicated procedures would need a stay at the hospital.

Most patients can expect a recovery time of about a week or two. If varicose veins treatments have been done for both the legs, then it could take longer.

Outpatient procedures would require you to take rest for the rest of the day. Once the anesthetic effect reduces you could feel some burning or light pain. If needed, mild painkillers can be taken.

Treated Area – The dressing should be on for at least a day or two and some slight bleeding may take place. Showers can be taken; but not baths or swimming. It is recommended that you wear compression stockings for about three days as it promotes blood circulation. It is best that you do not sit or stand for long periods. If you notice bleeding, then it is advised that you elevate the leg and apply pressure to the affected area. If it does not help, then you should call up your medical practitioner immediately.

Exercising – For a minimum of two weeks, any kind of strenuous exercise is not advisable. Simple exercises can be done like small walks which actually helps with your circulation. As and when you start feeling more comfortable and energetic, you can increase the length of the walks. Driving is strictly not advisable in the first two days at least. This is mainly due to the expected anesthetic reactions.

Follow-ups – Radiofrequency or laser treatments need proper follow ups within the next 3 day period. Your vein specialist would do an ultrasound to ensure that the vein has closed properly.

It is quite possible that after surgery, you might have Phlebitis. It basically means some inflammation or lumps on the leg. But it usually becomes alright within the month.

Recurrence of varicose veins is quite possible but rare. Statistics show that only one in about fifteen patients can see a repeat in a 10 year period. Hence, to make sure that this does not happen, one needs to follow an optimal weight, good exercise regime and continue to use support socks.

After a Varicose veins treatment, if you experience excessive pain or swelling in the leg, you need to get in touch with your medical practitioner immediately. It could be deep vein thrombosis. These are blood clots which can be life threatening. This might need further treatment.