Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the recovery process following varicose veins treatment.
Here you’ll find helpful information on what to expect and how to care for yourself during this period. Your well-being and comfort during this phase are paramount and we’re here to offer guidance every step of the way.
If you have any questions or concerns, our dedicated team at Vein Health Medical Clinic is readily available to assist you.
Wearing Comfortable Compression Stockings
Following your treatment, we will provide you with Class 2 Medical Grade stockings. These stockings are both aesthetically pleasing and designed for maximum comfort. They come in full length and are available in either black or skin tone, depending on your preference. These stockings can be made from cotton or nylon, ensuring your comfort throughout the day. To aid in the application of the stockings, a special application sock is included. Special gloves will also be provided to make the application process even easier.
Easing into Movement
Once you’re dressed and ready, Dr. Paraskevas will walk you through your post-treatment instructions. It’s important that you to take a gentle half-hour walk when you leave the surgery. This walk can be done at a pace that feels comfortable for you. After your walk, you’re free to choose your mode of transport back home – whether it’s driving, taking a taxi/Uber, or using public transport. There are no restrictions on your daily activities from this point forward.
For the next 1-2 weeks, depending on the type of treatment you received, you will need to include a 30-minute comfortable-paced walk into your daily routine. Walking engages your calf muscles, reduces pressure in treated veins, and can alleviate any discomfort. Your well-being is uppermost, so we encourage you to walk at your own pace and within your comfort zone.
Optimising Recovery through Compression and Walking
The combination of wearing compression stockings and regular walking plays a pivotal role in minimising the risk of deep vein thrombosis. It’s important to stay active and hydrated, especially on the day of the procedure and the following day. Avoid prolonged standing in one spot and while sitting, elevate your legs to promote circulation and alleviate any potential swelling, if possible.
Engaging in Activities
During the initial two weeks after Endovenous Laser Ablation, we recommend avoiding high-impact or rigorous activities such as running, squash, high-impact aerobics, or heavy lifting. However, following Sclerotherapy, there are no restrictions on activity. Engaging in mild to moderate exercises like golf or an easy stationary bike ride is perfectly fine. You can also resume your normal work and home duties, provided they don’t involve excessive strain.
Managing Discomfort
After Sclerotherapy, you might experience localised discomfort on the day of the procedure, but this typically diminishes with walking and the use of stockings. For those who underwent Endovenous Laser Ablation, you may encounter some pain and heaviness in the legs during the first few days, peaking around day 7 before gradually subsiding. It’s unlikely that this discomfort would hinder your daily activities. In certain cases, your treating doctor might recommend mild pain relievers to ease any discomfort.
Healing Process and Follow-Up
The healing process can vary, and you might experience discomfort in specific areas such as the inner thigh, inner knee, calf, or posterior knee, depending on the type of treatment received. These sensations are normal and are a part of the healing journey, sometimes lasting 1-2 weeks.
Review appointments will be scheduled as needed. Typically, Sclerotherapy patients are reviewed at 6 weeks, while EVLA patients are reviewed at 2 weeks. Dr. Paraskevas ensures his direct contact details are available to ALL patients for any concerns or questions. This accessibility guarantees rapid diagnosis and attention to any complications.
Planning Your Travel
For the first 4 weeks following treatment, we advise against any long-haul travel. After this period, Dr. Paraskevas will provide individualised travel instructions. Your safety and comfort remain at the forefront of our care, and we’re here to guide you through every step of your recovery journey.
Key Takeaways
- Comfortable Compression Stockings: After treatment, you’ll receive Class 2 Medical Grade stockings designed for both comfort and aesthetics.
- Gentle Movement: Engage in a gentle half-hour walk post-treatment to aid recovery. Walking at your own pace helps reduce discomfort, promote circulation, and prevent deep vein thrombosis.
- Activity Guidelines: This depends on your treatment. After Sclerotherapy, resume mild to moderate exercises and normal duties. After Endovenous Laser Ablation, avoid high-impact activities for a brief period.
- Healing Process: Discomfort in specific areas is normal during healing, typically lasting 1-2 weeks based on treatment type. Follow-up appointments ensure any concerns are promptly addressed
- Travel Planning: Avoid long-haul travel for the initial 4 weeks. Individualised travel instructions will be provided by Dr. Paraskevas after this period, prioritising your safety and comfort.
Feel free to reach out if you have any queries or require further assistance. Your well-being is our priority, and we’re here to support you on your path to healing.
