Varicose veins may seem like a cosmetic bother at first glance, but they often signal underlying issues with blood flow. If you’re considering varicose vein surgery, knowing what lies ahead can make all the difference. A consultation with a vascular surgeon in Singapore is usually the first step. Let’s take a walk down vein street, from pre-op prep to post-op recovery.
Preparing for the Procedure: Planning Ahead
The process starts with a consultation. A vascular surgeon in Singapore will assess your condition through a physical check-up and ultrasound. This helps locate the affected veins and determine the severity of the issue. Each treatment plan is customised based on your symptoms, vein condition, and health background.
Before the procedure, you may be asked to stop taking certain medications or supplements that increase bleeding risk. Smoking is discouraged as it slows recovery. On the day itself, you’ll need to avoid eating for a few hours, wear loose-fitting clothes, and have someone accompany you home. Think of it as trip prep, only the destination is better blood flow.
During Surgery: What Actually Happens
Varicose vein surgery might sound daunting, but it’s often an outpatient procedure with minimal disruption to your day. Many patients undergo endovenous treatments like laser therapy or radiofrequency ablation, which work by using heat to close off the problem veins. If the condition is more severe, methods such as vein stripping or microphlebectomy may be suggested. These are all forms of varicose vein removal.
The surgery is commonly performed under local anaesthesia. You’ll be conscious throughout, but discomfort is kept to a minimum. Most sessions wrap up in under two hours, and patients can usually head home the same day. Once the faulty vein is sealed, blood naturally finds its way through healthier neighbouring veins.
After the Surgery: Stepping Back into Your Routine
Recovery from varicose vein surgery is generally straightforward. You might experience mild bruising, swelling, or tenderness, but these are part of the healing process. Most people return to work within a few days, although heavy lifting and strenuous exercise are off the table for a week or two. Consider it your body’s way of saying, “Take a well-earned break.”
Compression stockings are often prescribed to help with healing and to prevent new varicose veins from forming. Wearing them as instructed supports your recovery and keeps things flowing smoothly. It’s also a good time to reassess lifestyle habits, like sitting or standing too long, as these can lead to vein trouble again.
Possible Risks: Knowing the Odds
Every medical procedure comes with a list of possible risks, and varicose vein surgery is no exception. Varicose vein removal can carry risks such as infection, nerve damage, blood clots, or recurrence, though these are uncommon. Your vascular surgeon in Singapore will walk you through these risks and help you decide whether the potential benefits outweigh the concerns. Staying informed is part of taking good care of your health.
Why Consider Surgery?
Surgery isn’t just for looks. While some people choose it for cosmetic reasons, others seek relief from aching, swelling, and heaviness in the legs. Varicose vein surgery can improve mobility, reduce discomfort, and prevent complications such as ulcers or deep vein thrombosis. Varicose vein removal is often part of managing these symptoms effectively.
Over time, untreated varicose veins can worsen, making early intervention a practical choice. With several minimally invasive options available, patients have more flexibility and less downtime than in the past.
The Role of Technology in Modern Treatments
One notable advancement is the use of ultrasound-guided techniques. These improve accuracy during vein closure and reduce complications. Techniques like endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) offer controlled treatment with predictable outcomes. Instead of removing veins, these methods close them from the inside, leading to less pain and quicker recovery.
Another shift is the move toward outpatient settings. This lowers the cost, reduces hospital time, and simplifies aftercare. With real-time imaging and precision tools, today’s treatments are more efficient and patient-friendly.
Long-Term Care: Keeping Veins in Check
Surgery fixes the problem vein, but maintenance keeps the rest of your circulation in shape. Post-surgery, your specialist may suggest lifestyle tweaks like weight management, regular walking, and leg elevation when resting. These changes are small, but they add up to a big difference in how your legs feel and function.
Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to check healing and ensure no new issues have cropped up. Staying consistent with these checks helps keep future vein problems at bay.
Taking the Next Step Towards Healthier Veins
Now that you know what to expect before, during, and after varicose vein surgery, it’s easier to make an informed decision. With the right support and preparation, this common procedure can bring relief and help your legs feel lighter. Contact Cheng SC Vein and Endovascular to schedule a consultation and get your veins back on track.