Varicose veins, unwelcome visitors that they are, can leave a giant impression on your life and force you to compromise your style, confidence, and comfort. Characterized by swollen and enlarged veins, often in a purple or bluish hue, they can give your legs a map-like appearance, turning them into a spectacle. When your legs are hosting a party you never invited them to, take heart! Throw some shade on these intruders and show them the back door. It’s time to get to know your options for treating varicose veins.

Tracing back to its roots, varicose veins are most commonly due to weak or damaged vein valves. These valves control the flow of blood back to the heart. When these valves don’t function properly, blood can collect in the veins, causing them to stretch and swell. Varicose veins can also lead to a condition known as venous insufficiency, which if left untreated, can be harmful. Popular risk factors include age, sex, family history of varicose veins, obesity, and sitting or standing for long periods. Though often seen as a cosmetic problem, they can cause considerable pain and discomfort and in some cases, lead to more severe health problems.

While the journey to rid your legs of the ‘netted’ nightmares may not always be straightforward, the first step should be consulting a professional. To sucessfully treat varicose veins, you will need a specialist who understands your condition well. Enter the role of a vein doctor Sydney. This medical professional is expertly trained to diagnose and treat disorders affecting the vascular system, including varicose veins. Armed with the latest medical technologies, they can offer a comprehensive treatment plan to suit your individual needs.

The treatment options for varicose veins have evolved considerably over the years. Earlier, veiny sufferers had only the option of vein stripping, an invasive surgical procedure. Today, there are several minimally invasive procedures available that require little to no recovery time. These include: Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT), Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), and Sclerotherapy.

Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT)

EVLT is a minimally invasive treatment that uses laser heat to collapse and seal off the varicose veins. This procedure is done under local anaesthesia and has a high success rate with minimal scarring.

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

This procedure uses radiofrequency energy to heat the varicose veins, causing them to contract and eventually disappear. RFA is another excellent method that requires only local anaesthesia and has a high patient satisfaction rate due to less pain and minor bruising post-treatment.

Sclerotherapy

In sclerotherapy, a special solution is injected directly into the varicose vein which causes it to collapse and eventually disappear. It’s a go-to option for treating smaller varicose veins and spider veins. This procedure might require multiple sessions depending on the severity of the condition.

If non-invasive treatments are not successful or suitable, vein doctors may recommend ambulatory phlebectomy or vein stripping. These are more invasive options and require longer recovery times but can be useful in stubborn cases.

Clearly, the landscape of varicose vein treatment has changed significantly. Today, each patient can expect a custom, comprehensive plan for treatment that addresses their individual condition and lifestyle. If you are waiting to say goodbye to your varicose veins, why wait when a solution can be attained! Consult a vein doctor Sydney today, and take the first step to healthier and varicose-free veins.