04.26.23
What Should I Know About Recovery? – Aftercare, Timelines, & Compression Stockings for Varicose Veins
So, as with many healthcare fields, patients have a wide variety of questions about vein treatment and what to expect. And that makes a lot of sense—most patients don’t have to worry about their vascular health until much later in life.
Just like any type of medical procedure, one of the primary concerns patients will have with varicose vein removal is the recovery process following closure.
Will they be in pain? Is it uncomfortable? Will they need to cover their legs? In particular, many want to know about compression stockings for varicose veins.
At Ozark Regional Vein & Artery Center, we’re constantly educating patients on the benefits of our procedures. That’s why we put such a premium on describing our services before, during, and after.
Well, as vein specialists, we don’t want to beat around the bush: the vein treatment recovery process rarely provides instant gratification. We refer to it as a process for a reason.
Today, we’ll outline those steps in-depth as we detail everything you can expect during your recovery. From recovery guidelines to details about compression stockings for varicose veins, we’ve got you covered!
Post-Procedure Recovery
Though venous reflux disease treatments in Rogers are all different, recovery is similar. The only thing that notably changes is the timeframe.
Our recovery guidelines
These include:
- Walk 5-10 minutes every hour you’re awake.
- Don’t lift over 20 pounds.
- Wear compression stockings for varicose veins for a provider-recommended amount of time (this will depend on the specific procedure).
Though we’ll ask you to follow these instructions carefully, the good news is that they’re only temporary.
Usually, patients will need to follow our recovery instructions for 10 to 14 days following their treatment. Though adjusting your routine like this isn’t very much fun, it ensures you receive the best outcomes possible.
While these treatments are virtually risk-free, following these guidelines for post-treatment care minimizes any risk of complications and reduces the risk of treatment reversal/failure.
Your Questions
Since treatments vary, but recovery largely looks the same, we thought taking time to answer your questions would be a great way to clarify the details of post-treatment care!
Imagine you’re in our clinic. Lots of big doors, clean floors, and smiling faces. The treatment was quick—in and out, no stress whatsoever—and now that it’s complete, you’re interested in what comes next.
Do I need to plan for someone to pick me up? Will I need to make special arrangements?
The answer to both questions is no! No downtime and no need for special planning on the day of your treatment.
That said, being a minimally invasive treatment means there are some things you can expect post-procedure.
Specifically bruising and slight pain in the treatment area. The pain and bruising are similar to what you would experience with a flu shot, and patients are welcome to take over-the-counter pain relievers following treatment if they wish.
Beyond that, all of our patients are free to continue with their normal daily activities after treatment. Whether that’s going back to work, running errands, cleaning up around the house, or playing with the kids, you’ll be good to go right when you leave your vein doctor in Rogers.
What should I do if I encounter problems during recovery?
So, it’s worth mentioning that these treatments have virtually zero side effects or complications. You are in very safe hands. That said, as with any treatment, minimally invasive or otherwise, it’s always best to pay attention to your body and take note if something doesn’t feel quite right.
The Ozark Regional Vein & Artery Center team is here 24/7 to ensure you have the support you need to fully recover, complication-free. If you have any questions or concerns about your recovery, contact us! We’ll discuss what you’re experiencing and schedule a consultation ASAP to ensure you’re comfortable & confident in the healing process.
If you believe you’re dealing with a healthcare emergency, please contact 911 immediately. We will work with you to resolve any underlying concerns but cannot provide urgent care services.
Do I need compression stockings?
Though not an especially helpful answer, the truth is that recovery needs will vary from patient to patient. Some patients won’t require compression stockings, while others will need them. Let’s take vein ablation recovery in Rogers, for example. A patient recovering from vein ablation will have different needs than a patient recovering from sclerotherapy.
You may be thinking, “Ok, well, I’ve already gotten treatment; why do I need compression stockings too?”
Compression stockings are necessary for patients with certain medical conditions, such as venous insufficiency, varicose veins, or lymphedema. These conditions can lead to poor blood flow in the legs, which can cause discomfort, swelling, or other complications.
If you’re dealing with the aftermath of these conditions, which isn’t every patient but is many of them, then stockings may be necessary.
Let’s talk compression stockings
This is the subject many of our patients are most anxious about. And we get it. Compression stockings for varicose veins can be uncomfortable, itchy, and not everyone likes the feeling of pressure on their legs. But there are some things you should know.
Compression hose 101
Compression Hose in Rogers, also called compression stockings, are a mission-critical tool for your recovery following your treatment. This is especially true for patients with varicose veins and other deep vein issues.
When you have veins damaged beyond a cosmetic level, your blood will actually pool in your legs and struggle to flow upward to the heart. This causes painful symptoms within your legs, the potential for tissue damage, and even the risk of infection.
Compression stockings help with these issues by applying pressure to the deeper tissue within your legs. Effectively creating a difference in pressure that drives blood back up the legs. This helps prevent the buildup of blood and allows it to move more effectively throughout the body and back to the heart.
And, an added benefit: compression stockings for varicose veins in Rogers can help reduce swelling or pain following treatment!
Types of Compression Stockings
Ozark Regional Vein & Artery Center carries an inventory of multiple different compression stockings with lengths designed to treat your specific vein issues. These include:
- Below-the-knee stockings
- Thigh-high stockings
- Full-length stockings
The length of your compression stockings will vary based on the exact location of your vein issues. For instance, a person needing vein treatment specifically in their calf likely won’t need a thigh-high or full-length stocking.
Additionally, the type of pressure your stocking provides will play a major role in its effectiveness. We measure the specific amount of pressure in mmHg, which stands for millimeters of mercury.
For those with spider veins or on the lower end of the CEAP scale in terms of vein severity, you’ll likely need a stocking lower in mmHg. Conversely, patients with more serious vein issues, or concerns about blood clots or deep-vein thrombosis in Rogers, will probably need stockings with a higher mmHg.
Why we fit your compression stockings
Having a pair of compression hoses that fit correctly is crucial for vein treatment recovery. Having a pair that is too long or loose around your legs will prevent the stockings from applying the pressure needed for proper recovery. If your pair is too long, it’s important to contact our office rather than fold the stockings or roll them, as that can lead to problems with circulation.
On the other hand, a pair that’s too snug or suffocating can lead to issues such as pressure sores, skin damage, or problems with blood circulation. If you notice redness or irritation at the site of your compression stockings, this may be a sign that your pair is too tight or that you may be allergic to the material.
How to wear compression stockings
Also, it’s important to smooth out your compression stockings as you put them on to prevent wrinkles or bunching.
Stockings that don’t lay flat against your legs will prevent you from getting the best possible results from your treatment and recovery.
During your vein treatment process at Ozark Regional Vein & Artery Center, our team will work with you to find the proper type and fit of compression stockings based on your unique needs.
When you receive your compression stockings, it’s crucial that you wear them as much as possible to get the maximum recovery benefits.
How long should I wear my compression stockings for varicose veins?
The time you need to wear compression stockings will depend on your medical condition and provider’s recommendations. Compression stockings should be worn during the day and taken off at night, although some patients may need to wear them for longer periods. Most patients only require them for 7-10 days after treatment, but that may vary depending on the severity of your condition.
Your healthcare provider will typically prescribe a specific compression level and instructions on how long you should wear the stockings daily. It’s important to follow these instructions closely, as wearing the stockings too long or at the wrong compression level could cause discomfort or harm.
If you have any concerns or questions about how long to wear compression stockings, it’s best to speak with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Your allies in vascular care & recovery
Interested in compression stockings for varicose veins or learning more about vein treatment recovery? Come to the Ozark Regional Vein & Artery Center. Our experience and growing suite of care options allow us to guide you toward lasting wellness solutions for a happier, healthier life.
We are a premier practice in Northwest Arkansas for all the highest-quality vascular treatments available. Dr. Haney, Dr. Stout, and the expert staff have over 75 years of combined experience in the industry. Patients come to us from across the country—from Fayetteville & Bentonville to Houston, Texas, & Springfield, Missouri—to ensure they receive the best concierge-level care.
After all, helping patients is what we do. And it is our mission to provide the patients of Arkansas and beyond with the absolute best care possible.
Take the first step on the road to recovery with our Virtual Vascular Screening Tool, or schedule a consultation. We also hold regular free screening events.
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