Varicose veins can be more than just a cosmetic concern. They can cause aching pain and discomfort, and in some cases, lead to more serious health problems. Varicose vein surgery is one of the options available to deal with this common issue.
What are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that you can see just under the surface of the skin. They usually occur in the legs, but can also be found in other parts of the body. Varicose veins are quite common, affecting about 3 in 10 adults, and more common in women than in men.
Why Would One Need Surgery?
In some cases, lifestyle changes or compression stockings can help manage the symptoms of varicose veins, but sometimes surgery is necessary. The main reasons for considering surgery include pain, sores or skin problems resulting from the varicose veins, a blood clot, or if the appearance of the veins is of high concern to the patient.
Types of Varicose Vein Surgery
There are several types of varicose vein surgeries, mainly endovenous laser treatment, vein stripping, and sclerotherapy. These procedures typically involve removing or shutting the affected veins. Note that removing these veins won’t affect the circulation of blood in your legs as veins located deeper in the leg take care of the larger volumes of blood.
Consulting a Specialist
If you have varicose veins and are considering surgery, it’s important to consult with a specialist to understand your options. Some of the best varicose vein specialists Sydney has to offer, for example, can provide expert advice tailored to your specific needs and expectations.
Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT)
EVLT is a minimally invasive procedure that uses laser energy to cauterize (burn) and close the varicose veins. It’s performed under local anesthesia and causes less pain and has shorter recovery time compared to other surgical methods.
Vein Stripping
This is a surgical procedure that removes varicose veins from the legs or thighs. The surgeon makes small cuts in the skin, inserts special tools, and pulls the varicose veins out of the leg. Vein stripping can be performed under general or local anesthesia and usually requires some recovery time.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution directly into the vein which causes the vein to scar, forcing blood to reroute through healthier veins. The collapsed vein is reabsorbed into local tissue and eventually fades. This procedure can be performed in the doctor’s office and typically doesn’t require anesthesia.
The Right Decision
Each type of varicose vein surgery has its own pros and cons, and what might be right for one person may not work for another. Deciding whether to have varicose vein surgery, and which type to have, is a decision that should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional. It is always recommended to seek out expert advice, such as from varicose vein specialists Sydney, to minimize risks and ensure optimal results.
