Varicose Vein Post-Treatment Instructions

If you have just had a surgical procedure performed on your varicose veins at Edward G. Mackay and Associates, LLC, the instructions below are intended to aid you during your recovery. You can also download and print a PDF of these instructions now.

  1. The bandage(s) that have been placed over the puncture sites and the compression stocking are to remain in place for 24 continuous hours. Do not remove either of these unless instructed to do so by the physician or nurse. You will not be able to bathe until these bandages are removed. After 24 hours, remove the stocking and bandage but leave the surgical tape on. Once you are able to bathe, avoid hot tubs, hot showers, and the bathtub (i.e., shower in warm or lukewarm water only). No swimming for 1 week.
  2. You are encouraged to walk immediately following your procedure for a minimum of 10 minutes, and every day thereafter for a minimum of 30 minutes. This is an extremely important part of your recovery and will help prevent blood clots from forming. Avoid vigorous gym workouts until your post-op appointment. After your post-op appointment, you may resume physical activity with clearance from the physician, and then only at a pace with which you are comfortable.
  3. You should expect to see some bruising along the treatment site and possibly some numbness, tingling, and/or tightness. These symptoms are normal, and the degree to which they are experienced may vary from person to person. However, if you experience significant pain, swelling, or have bleeding of the treated leg, contact our office right away.
  4. Once the initial 24 hours have passed and you have removed the bandage, you may shower. The stocking needs to be worn during the daytime only. You do not need to wear it to bed. You will be wearing the stocking for a total of 1 week, starting the day of your procedure: the first day continuously, as described above, then daytime only for the next 7 days.
  5. Since you were measured previously, your stocking is a perfect fit, but you may find that applying the stocking yourself can be difficult. Rubber gloves make application easier, along with a silk footie that comes in the box with your stockings. We do have stocking application devices if you find application too difficult. Ask at the front desk for more information about this device.
  6. You have been given local anesthesia, which will slowly be absorbed over the next few hours. You may notice slight swelling of your toes and groin area of your treated leg. This is normal and will decrease as the fluid is absorbed. If the swelling continues to increase or your toes become cold, contact our office promptly.
  7. You have been given prescriptions for pain and inflammation. Take them as directed.
  8. Our office hours are Monday through Thursday, 8 am – 5 pm, and Friday, 8 am – 4 pm. Phone the office nearest you: Palm Harbor at (727) 781-5652, St. Petersburg at (727) 527-2888, or Largo at (727) 581-8346. If you call after hours, you will be directed to the answering service.
  9. PLEASE GO TO YOUR NEAREST EMERGENCY ROOM FOR EMERGENCIES.
woman has varicose veins in her legs

Do you have additional questions about your varicose vein treatment, or do you need to schedule a consultation with board-certified vascular surgeon Dr. Edward G. Mackay? Call Edward G. Mackay and Associates, LLC at (727) 781-5652 or request your appointment now.

We look forward to seeing you at one of our three convenient locations in Tampa Bay: in Palm Harbor, St. Petersburg, or Largo, Florida.