Modern Treatments
In recent years, the treatment of varicose veins has undergone a remarkable transformation, moving away from complex surgical procedures to more refined, patient-friendly techniques. That now allow us to do all our procedures in an out-patient setting with minimally invasive techniques causing less discomfort and allowing for quicker recovery. Patients typically experience minimal downtime, walking out of the clinic the same day the procedure is performed.
We have completed more than 35,000 successful treatments and we always select the most efficient, safe and comfortable methods recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Our treatment methods include Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA), Foam Sclerotherapy and Phlebectomy.
The precision of these treatments also means improved safety and cosmetic outcomes. With advanced imaging technologies, specialists can target problem veins more effectively, reducing the likelihood of recurrence and complications.
What to expect
Below you will find information and common questions related to the treatment of varicose veins, helping you to understand what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
Before Treatment
On the day of treatment, you should shower in the morning. Do not apply cream/body lotion on the legs as we will mark the varicose veins with a marker pen which otherwise will not adhere.
Please wear loose trousers and comfortable shoes to accommodate any bandages and for your own comfort.
We recommend that you do not drive yourself after the treatment. If you receive a bandage over the entire leg, you may become less mobile, which can inhibit your ability to drive safely. You are free to move about on foot and by public transport as we do encourage walking straight after the treatment.
If you are taking blood-thinning medication, you should not stop taking these. This should only be done in extremely rare cases, and if so, the doctor will have informed you of this during the pre-examination. Please ask the medical team if you are not sure.
You may take sedatives before the treatment. This can be discussed with your surgeon at your consultation.
During Treatment
During the treatment, there will be a vascular surgeon and a nurse in the room with you performing the procedure. The procedure usually takes between 45 and 60 minutes and a larger operation on both legs can take up to 90 minutes.
Only local anaesthesia is needed, and the treatments carried out are virtually pain free as veins have no nerve endings. The only sensation a patient typically feels is when the injections for local anesthetic is administered. We always strive to make you as pain-free and comfortable as possible.
Before and after images
After Treatment
After the treatment is done, you are free to walk out of the clinic and return to your daily life and work with only a few restrictions detailed below. Many patients are surprised that the procedure does not usually cause a lot of pain and that it does not require any downtime. There are some things to be aware of after the treatment which are covered below.
Bandages: There may be a risk of bleeding, for example, after a phlebectomy, the leg is wrapped with a compression bandage. Alternatively, you will receive a smaller plaster. There may be leakage of anaesthetic fluid and even bleeding through the dressing. This is usually completely harmless. You can apply extra bandages and/or elevate the leg for a while, which is usually sufficient. The bandage can be removed 24 hours after the treatment. We do not clean the leg after the treatment to minimize the risk of bacteria entering the small wounds. Therefore, it is a good idea to take a shower and wash the leg when the bandage is removed. You do not need to apply plasters on the small wounds if they are dry.
Compression stockings: No compression stockings are needed as there is no evidence that it aids in the long-term outcome or reduces the risk of complications. You can choose to purchase a knee length compression stocking to wear for 5-6 days after the treatment, which can aid the swelling and discomfort post treatment.
Physical activity and work: There is no specific prohibition against physical training after treatment. You may lift, walk, and run to the extent that you feel you are able to. Our patients do not require time off work, however If you feel you would like to have the day off, you may arrange this with your employer.
Discomfort: A few hours after the treatment, you may experience discomfort in the leg once the effect of the local anaesthesia wears off. After this, most patients continue to describe discomfort in the treated areas of the legs, which in most cases can be managed with common over-the-counter pain relievers.
Bruising: Bruises are common but would normally disappear within a few weeks. In some cases, they can persist for 4–6 months. You may also experience some hard lumps similar to the previous varicose veins, which can also take several months to disappear. Once the small incisions are healed, you can apply arnica cream which can help with bruising and inflammation.
Sun: Direct sunlight can cause discolouration to the treatment site and cause the veins to widen as blood is brought to the surface to cool down your body. We recommend using SPF 30 to protect your skin when in sunlight. Direct sunbathing and tanning beds are not recommended.
Flying/travel: There is no physical or medical reason that prevents you from traveling immediately after treatment. However, it is recommended that you contact your travel insurance provider, as they set the criteria for when you are insured after a treatment.
Follow-up and re-treatment: The follow-up check is included in the assessment cost and offered after 3-4 months if needed. Depending on the extent of your varicose veins and how you respond to the primary treatment, further treatment can be needed. If this is the case, the treatment can be performed at the same time as the follow up.
Guarantee: We offer a guarantee on the treatment of the Great Saphenous Vein (GSV), which is the vein that usually causes varicose veins, and which is most often treated with laser ablation. If it turns out to be open at the follow-up check, we offer an additional treatment.
Cost of treatment
We strive for transparency in our pricing structure. All prices are provided upfront and are fixed, encompassing all included charges. There are no "from" prices or hidden fees.
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