During the procedure

You’ll be awake during the entire procedure. Your doctor will use ultrasound to visualize the vein, will clean the skin with a disinfectant, and numb your leg with a local anesthetic.

You may feel slight pressure when the catheter is inserted into the vein, or minor stinging when the local anesthetic goes in. The closure of the vein shouldn’t be painful.

After the procedure

The compression stocking we have recommended for you will be placed on immediately after the procedure in order to control swelling and bleeding. You will have to wear them continuously for 2 days and then  during the day (for at least 8 hours) for two weeks. There aren’t usually any stiches as the incisions are very tiny.

You may want to plan on having someone drive you home after the procedure, but this is not absolutely necessary. We advise avoiding strenuous exercise for a week or two after. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and Ibuprofen (Advil) may be recommended for any discomfort.

Additionally, your doctor may have you avoid hot baths or hot tubs following the procedure. Warm water showers are recommended.

Recovery and outlook

Typically, you can resume normal activities within a day or two after receiving treatment. You will need to wear compression stockings during the day for two weeks following treatment. We also ask that you do not fly for four weeks and avoid long distance travel for two weeks after the procedure (anything longer than 1-1.5 hours).

In general, noninvasive procedures are very successful and their risk of complications is low. Typically, these procedures improve the appearance of the skin on the legs or other areas. In most cases, there are no signs of scarring or bruising, but there is a risk that the varicose veins may come back. Wearing compression stockings can reduce the risk of the varicose veins returning.