There are varicose vein treatments for large and deep veins, as well as small veins that are close to the surface of your skin. If you're considering varicose vein removal, your doctor can explain the suitable treatments for your condition. Here are reasons you may want your troublesome veins removed and some methods that might be used.

Why You May Want Your Varicose Veins Removed

If your veins are causing medical problems such as rashes, ulcers, swelling, or pain, your doctor might recommend removing the veins that are behind the problem. You might also want your varicose veins treated if the veins make your legs feel heavy, itch, or otherwise cause discomfort.

A common reason for treatment is to improve the appearance of your legs. Varicose vein treatments remove bulging and unsightly veins so you feel better about your appearance.

How Varicose Vein Treatments Work

Some varicose vein treatments work by removing the vein immediately. This might be done with a surgical procedure or with a minimally invasive procedure that hooks the vein and pulls it out. Other treatments cause the treated veins to disappear gradually. These involve injecting a substance in the vein or applying heat or a laser to damage the vein so it shrivels and is slowly absorbed by your body.

More invasive procedures require the use of a guided ultrasound so the vein specialist can target a deep vein with a laser fiber. Minimally invasive procedures are possible for deep veins too, so the recovery time is quick. In some cases, your doctor might recommend vein stripping, which involves making incisions in your leg to pull the veins out. This is more involved than ambulatory phlebectomy that pulls out smaller surface veins.

How The Treatments Are Done

Most varicose vein treatments are done on an outpatient basis and only local anesthesia is needed. The exception is vein stripping, which might be done in a hospital under general anesthesia. Vein stripping was once common, but it is not used as much since other treatments may be suitable that require less trauma and a shorter recovery time. However, vein stripping achieves instant results while lasers and sclerotherapy provide gradual results.

What Recovery Is Like

You may need to wear compression stockings during your recovery. You'll be able to walk when you're ready to go home and you can probably go back to work the next day. Some minimally invasive procedures use such small incisions that you don't even need stitches.

However, since there are several methods for varicose vein removal, recoveries differ. You'll be provided with an instruction sheet for your recovery that may include orders to avoiding lifting and strenuous activities. Be sure to follow your doctor's recommendation so you have a quick and uneventful recovery from your procedure.

For more information about varicose vein treatment, contact a doctor near you.