​Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that commonly occur in the legs. They develop when the valves inside the veins do not work properly, causing blood to pool instead of flowing back efficiently towards the heart.

Symptoms may include visible swollen veins, aching, heaviness, swelling of the legs or ankles, itching, skin discolouration, cramps, or ulcers in severe cases.

What to expect

Before Your Surgery

  • Authorization should be obtained prior to surgery and will be done by the hospital or the rooms staff depending on whether you are an in- or outpatient.
  • Make sure that you have been fasting for solid foods for at least 6 hours prior to your surgery and for clear liquids or water for at least 2 hours prior to your surgery. Discuss your chronic medications with your doctor or hospital staff prior to your surgery as you usually are allowed to take chronic medications the day of surgery, barring diabetic medication the day of the procedure. If you are taking any blood thinning medication please discuss these in detail with your doctor as special arrangements need to be made for these.
  • A Doppler ultrasound may be required before treatment to assess the veins and plan the procedure.

Day of Surgery

You will be admitted to the rooms, procedure unit, day ward, or hospital depending on the treatment planned. The procedure may be performed under local, regional, or general anaesthesia.

Compression bandages or stockings may be applied after treatment.

Procedure

Treatment depends on the severity of the varicose veins and symptoms.

Management may include compression stockings, leg elevation, exercise, weight control, and avoidance of prolonged standing.

Procedural treatment may include:

  • Endovenous laser or radiofrequency ablation
  • Foam sclerotherapy
  • Vein stripping or surgical ligation
  • Removal of smaller veins through small incisions

The aim is to close or remove the abnormal veins and improve blood flow through healthier veins.

Procedure Length

The procedure usually takes 30–90 minutes, depending on the treatment method and the extent of the veins.

Possible Complications

  • Possible complications include bleeding, bruising, infection, pain, skin staining, numbness, recurrence of varicose veins, blood clots, wound problems, and unintended damage to surrounding structures.

Duration of Hospital Stay

  • This is a day procedure, and patients are usually discharged the same day.

Discharge Instructions

  • Wear compression stockings or bandages as instructed. Walk regularly after the procedure to reduce the risk of blood clots.
  • Take prescribed pain medication if needed. Mild bruising, tightness, tenderness, or swelling may occur.
  • Please contact the rooms if you develop severe pain, increasing swelling, fever, wound discharge, shortness of breath, chest pain, or sudden calf pain.

Return to Activities

  • Walking is encouraged from the day of the procedure. Avoid prolonged standing or sitting for the first few days.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and hot baths for 1–2 weeks, depending on the procedure performed.

Back to Work Estimation

  • Desk work: approximately 1–3 days.
    Physically demanding work: approximately 1–2 weeks, depending on symptoms and the procedure performed.

Follow-Up and Results Discussion

A follow-up appointment may be arranged 5–7 days after treatment for wound review, compression review, or ultrasound assessment if necessary.

A further follow-up may be arranged 10–14 days after treatment for wound assessment, suture removal if applicable, and review of recovery. Histology is not usually applicable unless tissue was sent for analysis.