Walk right after the procedure
You can get up and walk on the same day. Walking keeps blood flowing through the deep veins and lowers the risk of clots. In the first days, avoid sitting still for long periods or standing without moving.
Stockings and walking protect the result.
Recovery day by day
- First dayYou wear a compression stocking or bandage and walk on the same day. Small swelling, redness and itching at the injection sites are normal.
- First weekWear the stocking during the day for as long as you were told. Avoid strenuous sport, hot baths, sauna and long hours in the sun.
- Over the weeksTreated veins first darken and then slowly fade. With spider veins the full result usually shows within a few weeks; larger veins take longer.
- Check-upThe result is assessed at the check-up and an extra session is planned if needed. Sessions are usually a few weeks apart.
First days. Treated veins darken; there may be light bruising around them.
A few weeks later. The veins start to fade and the colour lightens.
Weeks later. Most of the veins disappear; any remaining mark fades over time.
Temporary discolouration and bruising
Bruising, firmness or brown discolouration may appear along the treated vein. These usually fade on their own over months. Protect the area from the sun during this time and use sunscreen when you go out. Trapped clotted blood in the vein can sometimes feel like a small, firm cord; if needed, it is drained with a fine needle at the check-up.
Daily life
You can usually return to desk work the next day. You may shower; put the stocking back on afterwards. On long journeys, take breaks to walk and drink plenty of water. Tell your doctor if you are starting a new medicine or planning a pregnancy.
When should you seek help immediately?
- Increasing swelling and pain in the calf or leg
- Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain (call 112)
- Visual disturbance, difficulty speaking or weakness in an arm or leg (call 112)
- A growing wound, spreading redness or fever at an injection site
Check-ups and appointments. These take place at the Cardiovascular Surgery Clinic of Tatvan State Hospital. Appointments are made through MHRS; details are on the Contact and appointments page.
References
- Rabe E et al. European guidelines for sclerotherapy in chronic venous disorders. Phlebology 2014;29(6):338-354. doi:10.1177/0268355513483280
Related pages
Varicose vein treatmentSclerotherapy and other options- Compression stockingsHow to wear them, how long to use them
Deep vein thrombosisSudden swelling and pain in the calf