Modern vein care is quick and easy thanks to minimally-invasive procedures like Endovenous Laser Treatment or Sclerotherapy. But, just like any other treatment, care doesn’t end immediately after the procedure. If you have sought vein care treatment, here’s how you can take care of yourself post-procedure.
What to Expect After Varicose Vein Treatment
While vein procedures can be handled as an outpatient procedure, it will take roughly a week or two to fully recover. You may notice some swelling with pink or bluish discoloration around the treatment site. This is entirely normal and will resolve in time. It’s also common to feel as though the treated vein is tighter than normal. This is also nothing to worry about; it’s healing scar tissue and will also go away on its own.
Varicose Vein Post Op Care Tips
Bandages and Compression Leggings
Your specialist will wrap the treated area in compression bandages after your procedure. You’ll need to keep them on for 48 hours and avoid getting them wet. Afterward, you’ll want to wear compression leggings during the day for about a week after the procedure. Make sure your legs are completely dry after showering to avoid developing an infection in the treated area. Please note that if your legs are getting more painful or feel numb or if your foot is showing signs of discoloration, you’ll need to stop wearing the wrap and contact your specialist.
Don’t Submerge the Treated Area
After removing your initial compression bandages, it’s safe for the treated area to get wet. However, you’ll want to avoid completely submerging it. Showers in warm — not hot — water are safe, but you’ll want to avoid taking a swim or going for a bath for the first week.
How to Manage Discomfort
Pain levels post-treatment are generally minimal for most patients. If you’re experiencing discomfort, you can take ibuprofen to manage pain levels and any swelling. However, you should not take ibuprofen if you are currently taking Coumadin or any anticoagulants. If you’re taking this medicine, please talk to your specialist for pain management directions.
Traveling After Vein Care Treatment
It’s possible that local anesthesia has slowed down your leg’s reaction time, so we recommend having a friend drive you home after your procedure. You also shouldn’t sit for long periods of time for about a week, so try to avoid flights or car rides that are longer than an hour.
Post-Treatment Exercise
Gentle exercise is important after undergoing a vein care procedure. This will help keep healthy circulation in the veins. For a week after treatment, you should walk at least 20 minutes, twice daily. You can use a treadmill after a week, although we recommend not running or using it on an incline. Any strenuous activity like aerobics, weight training, or running should be avoided until two weeks have passed.
Many patients can return to work the day after treatment. Depending on your job type, this may not be ideal for you. Make sure you discuss your job duties with your specialist to see if it’s safe for you to return to work right away.
Visiting a Specialist
Are you ready to seek treatment for your vein health? If you have any questions about treatment and post-procedure recovery, ask the vein specialists in Orlando at Central Florida Vein & Vascular Center. You can reach us by filling out a contact form. We’d love to talk to you and ensure you’re given the most accurate information possible from our experienced, board-certified specialists.
