Recovery after treatment for varicose veins

You can carry out your normal day-to-day activities immediately after your treatment. However, you should avoid strenuous exercise for the first few days and then gradually build up the amount you do. Do not exert yourself initially, and be guided by how well you feel.

Swimming

Swimming in public swimming baths should be avoided until all the wounds have healed.

Work

You can return to work when you feel well and comfortable. We usually advise taking between 2 days to 1 week off work, depending on the type of work you do. If your job involves prolonged standing, driving or if you have had both legs treated at the same time, you may need to take longer off work.

Please check with your employer whether they require a fit note (sometimes called a sick note). It is usually okay to self-certificate for up to 7, but if you are off work for a longer period you will need to see your GP for a fit note. 

Driving

We advise that you do not drive for at least 48 hours after your procedure. You should only drive again when you are free of pain and able to perform an emergency stop comfortably. You should check with your insurance company to make sure you are covered to start driving again. If you are taking painkillers, please check with a pharmacist whether it is safe for you to drive.

Flying

Sitting down for long periods with your knees bent increases the risk of DVT. 

We recommend you avoid short haul flights (less than 4 hours) for 4 weeks.

Long haul flights, (more than 4 hours) should be avoided for 6 weeks. 

Circulation and appearance

Having veins removed or treated will not make the circulation in your leg any worse. The important veins in your leg that return blood to your heart are the deep veins, which are not damaged by this treatment. The vein that is treated has blood flowing the wrong way (reflux). Some people’s circulation is improved by treating the refluxing vein.

It is important for you to understand that not every visible vein will disappear after your treatment, which has been performed to help relieve your symptoms, not for cosmetic purposes. There is usually the bonus of improved appearance, but this is not guaranteed nor is it the main reason for treatment.

Follow-up appointment

In most cases, the consultant will be happy for your follow-up to be done by your GP, unless there is a specific reason for you to see the consultant again. If this is required, you will be sent a letter by post.