You should be able to go home the same day or the day after. You should be able to return to work within a few days, depending on your type of work. As long as your wounds have healed, you should be able to carry out normal activities as soon as you are comfortable.
Varicose vein surgery is usually carried out under general anaesthetic, which means you will be asleep during the procedure. You can usually go home the same day, but an overnight stay in hospital is sometimes necessary, particularly if you're having surgery on both legs.
While vein surgery is a simple laser procedure that doesn't require hospitalization or general anesthesia, strenuous activity like high-impact aerobics, heavy weight training and Pilates should be avoided for at least the first week. Most people can resume walking right away and for at least 30 minutes a day.
Varicose vein surgery is performed under general anaesthetic. A tiny needle is placed in the back of your hand. The anaesthetic is injected through the needle and you will be asleep within a few seconds.
Small to medium-sized varicose veins usually are treated with sclerotherapy, external laser treatment, or a minor surgery called microphlebectomy.
In most cases, veins are simply closed using a chemical or radiofrequency energy that gently heats vessels to close them. Each of these treatments is virtually painless. This is because veins have no nerve endings.
The important thing is to be able to drive as safely following your operation as you did before it. You should certainly not drive for 48 hours after a general anaesthetic and I would recommend you not to drive for the first week while you have your bandage on.
Endovenous Laser Ablation vs Vein Stripping Costs
According to our own research and CHOICE Magazine, the average out of pocket cost for Endovenous Laser Ablation in Australia is between $2,500 and $4,000 per treatment, whilst vein stripping is around $2,000 (plus hospital and anaesthetic costs).
Avoid strenuous exercise such as aerobics, weight training, bicycling, and running for 1-2 weeks, however light exercise is encouraged. You should also avoid hot tubs, Jacuzzis and pedicures. Avoid prolonged sitting or standing for the first week. You may elevate your leg throughout the day to alleviate discomfort.
Sodium-rich foods include added salt, canned foods such as sauces, fast food like noodles, soups and meats. Some frozen fast foods are high in sodium as well. Reduce the consumption of these foods and drink more water to control varicose veins.
After the first 24 to 48 hours, you can take a hot shower (as long as the water isn't too hot), but until the surgical wound has completely healed, you'll have to avoid baths and swimming.
After our procedures, we ask that the patient refrain from heavy exercise such as jogging, jumping and heavy weight-lifting, but they should resume their normal activities. We want them walking, climbing stairs, doing their normal occupation and performing light cardio exercises.
Slight discomfort is normal. Occasionally, severe local twinges of pain may occur in some patients and may continue for some Page 3 months. In the first week after the operation you may need to take a mild painkiller such as paracetamol. Sometimes a little blood will ooze from the wounds for the first day or two.
Your Recovery
You may have a bandage and some bruising along the vein that was treated. You will need to wear compression stockings for 1 week or more. You can do your usual activities, but avoid vigorous exercise for about 1 week. Most people can get back to their normal routine right away.
Less than 5% of patients require a treatment touch up within 6 to 12 months following initial varicose vein treatment. Should such an additional treatment become necessary, no additional fees are charged. In general, 95%-100% of varicose vein conditions are eliminated following a single treatment.
Since your veins are still recovering, you should avoid adding undo pressure by elevating the legs during sleep. Have your spouse or partner place a couple of pillows under your legs, just below the knee joint. If you wake during the night, focus on ensuring that your legs remain elevated.
When the veins are removed, the body's natural healing process kicks in and causes them to regrow. This process is called post operative neovascularization. However, the new veins don't have valves, causing the varicose veins to come back with a vengeance.
The standard practice of the Veins Unit is to advise patients to wear class two compression stockings for four weeks post-operatively.
To be eligible for a Medicare rebate, varicose vein treatment must be deemed medically necessary and cannot simply be a cosmetic issue. Furthermore, the size of the veins must be 2.5mm or more. Generally, Medicare will cover between 75% and 85% of the costs, so the fee you pay will depend on the severity of your case.
Many Australians suffer from varicose veins, which are especially common in women as they age. The good news is that many varicose vein treatments are eligible for a Medicare rebate, which typically covers around 75-85% of the varicose vein removal costs.
While exercise won't cure varicose veins, it can help improve your symptoms and reduce your risk of developing more. Walking, biking and swimming are all great low-impact exercises that are easy on the joints and help circulation in varicose veins.
You will probably need to take 3 to 7 days off from work. It depends on the type of work you do and how you feel. You may shower after your doctor says it is okay to take off the compression dressings.
Pre Vein Surgery Instructions
Refrain from using moisturizers / lotions on the day of treatment. Do not take Aspirin-like products (Motrin, Advil, Aleve) 10 days prior to surgery unless otherwise advised by our office. Tylenol may be used if necessary. Wear loose fitting clothing and flat shoes.
Superficial Blood Clots or Phlebitis: These types of clots occur just under the skin in varicose veins and damage blood vessels. They are common after an injury or surgery.