Embarking on the journey of varicose vein treatment marks a significant step towards improved vein health and overall well-being. Whether you’re undergoing procedures like Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) or Varithena Vein Treatment, you’ll soon notice relief from painful symptoms. You’ll also get to enjoy the gradual disappearance of enlarged veins.
Your decision to undergo a varicose vein procedure will help you avoid serious complications such as non-healing wounds and dangerous blood clots. Additionally, you’ll improve your blood circulation as blood flow reroutes to healthier veins.
USA Vein Clinics’ minimally invasive approach to varicose veins treatment offers a quicker recovery than traditional vein stripping surgery. Our experienced vein specialists will walk you through what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. By understanding what to expect after your varicose vein procedure, you can prepare for a smooth recovery. This blog will provide a comprehensive overview of post-treatment recovery.
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Recovery Timeline After Varicose Vein Surgery
Day of Varicose Vein Procedure
It’s common to experience some discomfort and bruising in the area your veins were treated, however, the pain is usually minimal. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or Tylenol can help manage any significant pain.
You should be able to resume your normal activities almost immediately. However, we recommend you avoid excessive exertion for the first 48 hours following your procedure. Your doctor can provide guidelines on when you can return to exercising and other activities.
You can shower 24 hours after your varicose vein procedure but avoid baths or hot tubs for at least a week to help guard against infection.
One Week After Varicose Vein Procedure
Within a week of your procedure you should be back to your normal activities with some swelling or bruising. This should resolve within one to two weeks.
You also may feel tightness or a pulling sensation where your vein was treated, especially when bending or stretching your leg. This is due to the damaged vein shrinking, which can last up to four weeks.
One Month After Varicose Vein Procedure
Your doctor will want to schedule a follow-up visit to monitor your recovery from your varicose vein procedure. It’s common to need more than one treatment to achieve optimal results.
During the appointment, your doctor will determine if the treated veins have closed and if any other varicose veins have developed. Your doctor may also give you the green light to work out but may recommend low impact exercises depending on your condition.
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Six Months After Varicose Vein Procedure
Six months after your varicose vein procedure, most of your side effects should be gone.
Around this time, you will notice the life-changing results of your treatment. Some of these results include:
- Less leg pain and swelling, if any
- Fewer leg cramps, if any
- Reduced appearance of varicose veins
- Resolution of skin related issues such as itching and venous ulcers
- Legs that feel lighter
Explore these testimonials of real patients who have received varicose vein treatment at USA Vein Clinics.
Tips for Managing Your Vein Health After Treatment
To avoid varicose veins from returning, here are some tips to help you manage your vein health after treatment:
Use compression stockings as prescribed. Compression stockings can help relieve post-treatment side effects and assist in healing because they promote blood flow in your legs.
Eat a healthy diet. Foods that are rich in nutrients can help you prevent high blood pressure, strengthen the walls of the veins, and avoid cell damage, which in turn prevents varicose veins from forming.
Exercise regularly. Walking improves blood circulation and helps with pain relief. Yoga is another great exercise with similar effects. Avoid any strenuous exercises and lifting over 20 pounds unless your doctor approves it.
Avoid air travel. Sitting on a plane for long hours can cause blood to pool in the leg veins, which can cause more varicose veins to form.
Avoid sedentary activities. Sitting or standing for a long time can cause pressure in your leg veins. If you have a sedentary job, move around periodically for a couple of minutes.
Get regular screening tests for varicose veins. Get regular screenings for varicose veins or as prescribed by your doctor to check for varicose vein recurrence.
With a better understanding of what to expect after your varicose vein procedure, you can anticipate a smoother recovery. Thanks to the technology at USA Vein Clinics, vein procedures are a much easier and less painful experience than they were ten years ago.
If you need to schedule your follow-up appointment or regular screening appointment, call us at 888.768.3467 or schedule online.
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Medically Reviewed By:
Dr. Yan Katsnelson is a philanthropist, business owner, and highly skilled cardiac surgeon. He is the Founder and CEO of USA Vein Clinics, which is part of USA Clinics Group, the parent company of USA Fibroid Centers, USA Vascular Centers, and USA Oncology Centers, with more than 100 facilities nationwide. Dr. Yan has established himself as a strong advocate for accessibility and affordability of the most advanced medical care close to home. His mission is to create a positive experience for each patient with compassionate, personalized, and expert care.