Treatment of Varicose Veins
Varicose veins may cause cosmetic concerns, but in most cases they also lead to painful leg cramps, swelling and an unpleasant sensation of heaviness and burning. With a range of treatment methods, we can relieve pain and functional discomfort and restore your legs to a healthy, light and beautiful state.
Varicose veins cause both aesthetic concerns (visible spider and superficial veins) and functional symptoms (pain, cramps, swelling, heaviness and burning).
Spider veins (venectasias) and smaller varicosities can be treated with sclerotherapy, while larger varicose veins require surgical treatment.
A preoperative duplex ultrasound and consultation with the surgeon are essential for planning the most effective treatment.
Sclerotherapy of spider veins is performed on an outpatient basis, while operative treatment is done under local anaesthesia and lasts approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
After a short observation period, you may return home with detailed instructions.
Short walks are recommended on the day of the procedure, though activity should be adjusted to discomfort levels. You may gradually increase physical activity, and most daily tasks can usually be performed the following day.
Compression bandages or stockings should be worn for at least one week to reduce swelling and discomfort. Return to work depends on the procedure and the nature of your job; a minimum of one week of sick leave is recommended.
Because compression stockings are required after surgery, procedures are typically scheduled during autumn, winter or spring for greater comfort.
What are varicose veins and why do they develop?
Varicose veins are dilated, tortuous superficial veins of the lower limbs caused by valve failure and chronically elevated venous pressure. When valves malfunction, blood pools in the veins, causing them to enlarge and twist. At least 20–30% of adults experience chronic venous insufficiency or varicose veins.
Genetics plays the largest role, but hormonal changes, pregnancy, excess body weight, prolonged standing or sitting and lack of activity also contribute.
Can untreated varicose veins lead to complications?
Chronic venous insufficiency can lead to swelling, clot formation (thrombosis) and inflammation of superficial veins (thrombophlebitis), presenting as red, painful skin. Long-standing venous congestion may cause skin discoloration and thickening, and in severe cases lead to chronic ulcers.
What are spider veins?
Spider veins are an early sign of superficial venous insufficiency and mainly represent a cosmetic concern. They appear on the legs in red, blue or purple shades and are treated with sclerotherapy.
Can sclerotherapy be performed on an outpatient basis? What is recovery like?
Yes. No special preparation is required. Temporary redness or tenderness may occur after the procedure. Short-term compression therapy is recommended, but daily activities are not restricted except for avoiding intense exercise.
When treating larger varicose veins with ultrasound-guided techniques, the procedure is longer and performed in the operating theatre. Compression stockings must be worn for at least one week afterward.
What happens during a varicose vein consultation?
You will discuss your symptoms and risk factors with the surgeon. This is followed by a duplex ultrasound of the superficial venous system performed in a standing position for optimal visualization. A preventive scan of deep veins can also be performed if desired.
How should I prepare for the procedure? Do I need to fast?
No special preparation is needed other than showering and shaving the treatment area. Fasting is not required because the procedure is done under local anaesthesia. You will need someone to drive you home afterward.
Is post-treatment compression necessary?
Yes. A compression bandage is applied for 2–3 days and can then be replaced with a stocking. Wearing compression for at least a week reduces discomfort and swelling.
Are there visible scars after surgery?
Radiofrequency ablation leaves almost no visible scars, as the entry point is only 3 mm wide. Superficial varicosities are removed through 2 mm punctures that do not require sutures and heal with minimal scarring. Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy leaves no scars because it is performed through tiny needle punctures.
