Varicose veins, spider veins, and other vein disorders can disrupt the gorgeous appearance of your legs. With summer approaching, you might realize that the stark look of damaged and bulging blood vessels in your legs makes you feel too self-conscious to break out your shorts, skirts, or bathing suits.
A vascular doctor can help you get rid of these vein concerns, but how long can you expect to wait when it comes to these treatments before you can achieve your aesthetic goals? Read on to learn more about the beautiful results you can anticipate following treatment from a vein specialist.
How Long is the Vein Treatment Process?
When you schedule an appointment for treatment for varicose veins or another vein problem, your doctor can tell you the anticipated length of the session. The time spent in the doctor’s office for this treatment will vary depending on your unique case and the type of procedure.
Sclerotherapy will take about 15 to 20 minutes, and you may need between 2 and 6 sessions before completing your treatment. You will likely need about 6 weeks to recover and prepare between each of these sessions.
Endovenous laser treatment involves a procedure that lasts around 20 minutes. You will usually only need one appointment for this type of vein treatment. Ambulatory hook phlebectomy also usually features one 30 to 60-minute procedure.
After each of these treatments, the vein problem will be gone for good. But you should attend follow-up visits with your doctor as recommended.
Are Results from Vein Treatment Instant?
Results from your vein treatment will again vary depending on your procedure and your medical needs. Patients often see immediate relief of discomfort in the veins, such as itching. But aesthetic enhancement usually takes some time to accomplish.
Sclerotherapy patients see an improved appearance in the veins within 3 to 6 weeks of their treatment. It takes about 2 or 3 weeks for EVLT patients to heal and see the results of their procedure. And ambulatory hook phlebectomy may take several months to fully reveal the benefits of vein disease treatment.
Your doctor can let you know what to expect in your specific case during your consultation appointment. Follow your doctor’s aftercare instructions for optimal recovery and results.
What Aftercare Will I Need Following Vein Treatment?
Your doctor will recommend resting your legs after any form of treatment within your veins. But you should have little issue returning to your usual activities within the same day.
They will ask you to refrain from straining the legs, so do not lift heavy items or overwork these areas with strenuous exercise. But for proper recovery, you will need to complete some physical activity for optimal blood flow. Walk for about 30 minutes a day as you heal to encourage healthy circulation.
The doctor might also ask you to wear compression stockings to protect the legs as you recover. They help improve blood flow to these vulnerable areas. You can anticipate wearing them for about 3 weeks after your treatment.