What to Expect During Varicose Veins Treatment and Recovery
Learn what happens during varicose vein treatment, recovery time, and expected results
Varicose Veins
If you suffer from the swelling, heaviness, or visible bulging associated with varicose veins, modern medical advancements offer relief that is far less invasive than the surgical stripping of the past. At Vascular & Interventional Specialists, our team provides advanced care across our offices in Dakota Dunes, SD, Omaha, NE, Crystal Lake, IL, and Lee’s Summit, MO. Most treatments today are performed in an outpatient setting using local anesthesia. Before your procedure, a vascular specialist will use ultrasound imaging to map your venous system, ensuring the source of the pressure is identified and treated with precision.
What Happens During the Treatment
Most patients undergo endovenous laser or radiofrequency ablation. During these procedures, a tiny catheter is inserted into the diseased vein through a needle puncture. The catheter delivers thermal energy to the vein wall, causing it to collapse and seal shut. This reroutes blood flow to healthier, deeper veins, which instantly reduces the internal pressure in the leg. Other options include sclerotherapy, where a specialized solution is injected to close smaller spider or varicose veins, or microphlebectomy, which involves removing visible surface veins through tiny incisions that typically do not require stitches.
Immediate Post-Procedure Expectations
Because these treatments are minimally invasive, you will be encouraged to stand and walk immediately following the session. Walking promotes healthy circulation and prevents the formation of blood clots. You may notice some mild bruising, a feeling of tightness, or slight tenderness along the treated vein, but these sensations are usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. Most patients spend less than an hour in our Dakota Dunes, Omaha, Crystal Lake, and Lee’s Summit clinics.
The Recovery Timeline and Aftercare
The hallmark of successful recovery from varicose veins treatment is the use of compression stockings. You will likely be asked to wear these for one to two weeks to maintain pressure on the treated area and minimize swelling. While you should avoid heavy lifting and high-impact exercise for about seven to ten days, most people return to sedentary work or light daily activities within 24 hours. It is also important to avoid long periods of standing or sitting still during the first week; frequent, short walks are the best way to support your body’s healing process.
Long-Term Results and Leg Health
As the treated vein is naturally absorbed by the body over the coming weeks, you will see a significant improvement in both the appearance and the comfort of your legs. The skin discoloration and “heavy” feeling typically dissipate quickly, allowing you to return to an active lifestyle without the burden of venous insufficiency. At Vascular & Interventional Specialists, we are committed to providing the highest level of vascular care to our communities in South Dakota, Nebraska, Illinois, and Missouri. If you need to arrange care for varicose veins, call us at the following numbers:
Dakota Dunes, SD: 605-217-3345
Omaha, NE: 531-444-4757
Crystal Lake, IL: 815-846-0037
Lee’s Summit, MO: 816-675-0920