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LASER VEIN CLOSURE, VEIN REMOVAL (PHLEBECTOMY),
VEIN INJECTION AFTERCARE
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The most common side-effect is discomfort
along the course of the saphenous vein that was lasered,
removed, or injected. Typically this is minimal the first 2-3
days, and some people do not experience any discomfort. Other
describe sensations such as aching, burning, pulling, or
tightening. The discomfort is most noticeable about a week
later, and then gradually recedes. The cause of these
sensations is inflammation around the vein and the progressive
shriking of the vein. You may also feel firmness and soreness
along the course of the vein. The discomfort is almost always
gone within two weeks, but some individuals will notice it for a
while longer. Aleve is the best medication to treat
inflammation. Vicodin or Darvocet would be a last resort for
pain. Some people report that ice helps (once or twice a day
for 5-10 minutes.) Avoid heat. Consider trying arnica for the
pain as well.
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Another common observation is bruising
along the course of the vein. This will recede rapidly and
should mostly be gone in two to three weeks. Many patients find
that Arnica accelerates the resolutions of the bruising
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Medical support stockings both problems of
discomfort and bruising. And for best results, they should be
worn after the procedure for two days (day and night, 48 hours),
then for one week afterwards during the day (for a total of 9
days). The compression in support stockings may provide relief,
particularly if you’re on your feet a lot. After the 9 days of
wearing compression, I would advise wearing the stockings about
once or twice a week for reduction of further problems of
varicose/spider veins. For laser vein closure, you will have
ace wraps on for the first two days, then switch to medical
compression stockings.
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You can return to most activities
immediately after the procedure. Walking and swimming are
encouraged. It is best to avoid truly vigorous activity (long
runs, exercising at the gym, biking, basketball) for about 9
days. Don’t lift heavy weights for about 9 days.
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When you shower, there may be steristrips
on some of the incisions. If this is the case, leave the
steristrips on and allow them to fall off on their own. If they
are still stuck on after 7-10 days, you may manually remove them
or come to the office to have us assist you.
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A rare side effect may be an area of
numbness after vein removal. This means a small nerve was
injured. Unfortunately, I have no ability to prevent or control
this. Usually, the nerve function will return, but on occasion
the numbness will persist.
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Make an appointment with us for a post
procedure check up in 3-7 days.
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Do not hesitate to call us (209)
551-1888 if you have any questions.
Calvin Lee,
MD
Board Certified General Surgeon
Acupuncturist
Tammy Wu, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Chief Medical Director of Surgical Artistry, Inc.
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