The varicose vein in the legs occurs when the valves – flaps of tissues that prevent backflow of the blood – become damaged, resulting in the pooling of the blood in the legs. Varicose veins can be managed with several treatment methods, such as vein stripping and ligation, radiofrequency ablation, endovenous laser therapy, sclerotherapy, etc.
Each of these procedures has its own recovery timeline. However, recovery tips are almost similar for each procedure. Here are some recovery tips after varicose veins leg treatment.
Tip#1 Wear Compression Stockings
Compression stockings aren’t only best at preventing varicose veins from developing or getting worse but wearing these after varicose veins treatment can also help speed up the recovery.
Compression stocking keeps the post-surgical swelling and bruising (i.e., mostly expected to occur after vein stripping or phlebectomy and endovenous laser therapy or EVLT)at bay.
You should wear compression stockings throughout the day for approximately 1-2 weeks following the procedure or as your vein specialist advises.
Tip #2 Walk
Following your varicose vein treatment, start walking as soon as possible. Make sure to walk daily and slowly increase your walking distance and speed. Walk for 10 minutes at least thrice daily during the first couple weeks after treatment. This will keep the blood flowing in your legs and prevent blood clots.
Avoid strenuous activity or exercise, such as jumping, running, or biking, for two weeks following the treatment or as prescribed by your vein specialist.
Tip#3 Take Care of Your Wound
You may not require a small bandage or band-aid for minimally invasive procedures like sclerotherapy. However, if your doctor puts a band-aid, keep this in place for 24-48 hours after the procedure and during a shower. Also, do not swim or take a bath for at least 48 hours.
On the other hand, after the stripping and ligation procedure, there will be a bandage that you should keep clean. And when your doctor allows you to take off the dressing, wash the area daily with warm, soapy water and pat it dry.
If your incision area weeps or rubs against clothing, cover it with a gauze bandage and change it daily.
Tip#4 Ice and Elevate Your Leg
Varicose vein treatments that involve making large incisions, such as vein stripping and ligation surgery, may lead to mild pain at the site of the incision. So, to reduce pain, put ice packs on your leg for at least 10 minutes every few hours.
Also, prop up your leg on a pillow to combat the swelling and bruising. You can do this when you lie down or sit during the first few days following the treatment.
Varicose Veins in Legs Treatment in Tampa, FL
If you have a vascular condition, like a varicose vein or spider vein, meet one of Tampa Bay’s most trusted vein specialists, Dr. Edward Mackay, for thorough evaluation and treatment. Our vein specialist has years of experience in preventing and treating vascular diseases using minimally invasive and surgical treatments.
To schedule an appointment for your varicose vein treatment, call us today at (727) 349-5652 or request an appointment now.
