Up to 20 percent of men suffer from varicose veins and they can sometimes be painful. These enlarged and swollen veins under the surface of the skin are mainly a cosmetic problem but for some, they can cause medical complications. They are most common on the legs and feet, on the backs of the calves and on the inside of the leg and look lumpy and bluish through the skin.
Veins become varicose when blood does not flow properly from the surface veins to deep veins, leading to a build up of pressure and resulting in a pooling of blood in the surface veins.
There are a number of techniques that will remove varicose veins and give your legs a better appearance. One common operation is ligation, where a small cut is made in your groin at the top of the worst affected vein. The vein is tied off and removed through the cut. This procedure may also be used on smaller veins in the leg.
You may sometimes need to stay in hospital overnight after ligation and stripping. Your legs will be tightly bandaged and you may need to wear pressure stockings for one or two weeks, depending on your consultant surgeon's advice.
You'll also need to plan time off work so that you avoid strenuous exercise, and any lifting or carrying for several days after your operation. However, your consultant surgeon will advise you how long it will be until you can return to your normal activities. You should also refrain from driving until you are confident that you can perform an emergency stop without discomfort (this will probably be at least one week).
Other options for treating varicose veins include:
- sclerotherapy - a chemical solution is injected into small veins
- microwave treatment - a fine tube is inserted into the veins and microwave heat is used to shrink them
- EVLT (endovenous laser treatment) - a fine tube is inserted into the veins and laser light is used to shrink them.
The consultant will take you through all the risks and benefits associated with this type of procedure and it is important to talk through your expectations with your consultant before the procedure.
Next steps
For more information on varicose veins, to arrange your initial consultation with a cosmetic surgeon, or to book a free cosmetic nurse appointment, call our cosmetic surgery team on 0800 434 6644 or enquire online.
