Varicose Vein Treatment – The Recovery
With all medical procedures there comes the promise and hope of a healthful outcome. There also comes the concern over pain during and after the procedure as well as recovery time needed.
Being able to sit, stand and walk comfortably is vital to be able to get back to your daily activities and routine. Though no two people experience exactly the same things when it comes to varicose vein treatments, we can give you a good idea of what you can expect.
Types of treatment and what you can expect:
Sclerotherapy – Sclerotherapy is a procedure that eliminates spider and varicose veins by way of a saline injection directly into the veins.
What does this feel like?
The sclerotherapy injection can sometimes be painful, and the sclerosant injected can cause a feeling of burning or cramping for a couple of minutes in the area where the shot was given.
Microphlebectomy – removal of veins through very small incisions.
What does this feel like?
The area is treated with a local anesthetic and most patients say that it doesn’t cause discomfort during the procedure. The procedure is minimally invasive and leaves no scars though initially there will be 8 to 10 small puncture marks. Most patients are able to return to work the next day. Your leg will also be wrapped in an ace bandage, which will be removed after 24 hours and the underlying plastic sheet will stay on for up to 10 days.
Endovenous Ablation – This procedure uses either laser or radiofrequency energy focused through a thin catheter to treat the underlying cause of the varicose veins.
What does this feel like?
The only discomfort felt during the procedure is from the tiny needles used to inject lidocaine, a local anesthetic. Most patients return to work the very next day.
With all procedures, it is recommended to avoid heavy lifting or activity for the first week. Rest, elevation and cold packs all assist recovery.
For more information on vein issues please contact West Florida Vein Center, Tampa’s leading vein treatment center, for a consultation. They can be reached by calling 727-712-3233 or going to www.westfloridaveincenter.com