Is removing varicose veins dangerous?

Both of the surgical approaches can lead to pain, wound infections, bleeding, swelling, scarring and discoloration of the skin. About 15% of people who have varicose vein surgery experience one of these side effects. Serious complications such as thrombosis or nerve damage are very rare.

Is it dangerous to have varicose veins removed?

Varicose vein stripping is a safe, low-risk surgical procedure. But there are always risks associated with surgeries. These include: an allergic reaction to anesthesia.

What happens when varicose veins are removed?

The aim of surgery is to take pressure off the skin veins in the leg, by tying and dividing (and often removing) the principal skin veins in the leg. The removal of varicose veins does not affect blood flow because other veins and especially the deep veins take over this job.

Does removing varicose veins improve circulation?

In addition, for many years, vein stripping was done to treat varicose veins. While the procedure was painful and time-consuming with a lingering recovery, the leg circulation actually improved by removing the poorly functioning vein.

What are the side effects of vein stripping?

The most common are swelling, bruising, change in skin color, and pain. You’re more likely to have serious side effects if you’ve had vein stripping and ligation. Although they’re rare, complications can include blood clots, severe pain, infection, and scarring.

When should you have surgery for varicose veins?

If you still have pain or other symptoms after trying home treatment for 6 to 12 months, you may want to have surgery or a procedure. If your main concern is how your legs look, you could have treatment whenever you want. Home care won’t change how your legs look.

Do veins grow back after being cut?

Veins can grow back even after they’re cut away, and sometimes the laser treatment fails to seal a vein completely, allowing the blood flow to gradually return.

How much walking should I do after varicose vein surgery?

We ask our patients to walk after varicose vein treatment for 30 minutes and we advise walking every day for at least an hour a day for the weeks following treatment. Walking helps reduce the risk of developing a blood clot in the deep veins and can also help reduce leg pain after varicose vein surgery.

What is the recovery time for varicose vein surgery?

It usually takes one to four weeks to heal after varicose vein surgery. During that time, you’ll probably need to avoid or limit many of your usual activities. Don’t lift anything heavy or do any vigorous exercise for at least two weeks.

Should you remove varicose veins?

Having surgery or a procedure is a better choice if you care a lot about how your legs look. Home treatment won’t change the look of varicose veins. Surgery and other procedures also can reduce pain and other symptoms. Surgery can leave tiny scars on your legs.

Are you awake during varicose vein surgery?

This procedure is usually done to remove the varicose veins closest to the surface of your skin. You will be awake during the procedure, but your doctor will numb the area around the vein. Usually, you can go home the same day that the procedure is done.

How long will my leg hurt after vein surgery?

Your Recovery

Your leg may feel stiff or sore for the first 1 to 2 weeks. Your doctor will give you pain medicine for this. You can expect your leg to be very bruised at first. This is a normal part of recovery and may last 2 to 3 weeks.

What are the benefits of having varicose veins removed?