Share10 questions our patients commonly ask us about spider veins and varicose veins…
1. What kind of veins can be treated at Geelong Veins, Skin and Laser?
All types of troublesome and unsightly veins can be treated at GCLMC, from the finest spider veins 1-2mm in diameter to large bulging 2cm+ diameter varicose veins that extend along the length of the leg. We also treat less common areas of the body if veins are a problem there – including the torso, arms or face.
2. I’ve been told nothing can be done about my veins, is this true?
No it is not true! We often see patients who have been told by family, friends or other health practitioners that their troublesome leg veins cannot be treated. This is untrue. All types of veins can be safely and easily treated at our leg vein centre.
3. Are my leg veins just a cosmetic problem, or are there medical reasons they should be treated?
While some small surface veins can be mostly a cosmetic issue, there are also medical reasons to treat most veins. Varicose or refluxing veins can lead to skin problems including dermatitis, itch, discoloration of the skin and even skin ulcers. Another problem can be symptomatic veins – causing aching pain when standing for prolonged periods or swelling of the legs or ankles. Having larger varicose veins is a risk factor for the development of superficial thrombophlebitis (painful inflammation and clotting in the surface veins) or the more serious DVT ( deep vein thrombosis). Due to these complications, leg vein schlerotherapy treatments attract a medicare rebate for veins > 2.5mm in diameter.
4. Do I require surgery and general anaesthetic for varicose vein treatment?
Treatment of leg veins has advanced greatly in the past few decades. Stripping and surgical treatment of leg veins is no longer commonly practiced, as injection and laser techniques have surpassed surgery in results. This means all our treatments are walk in, walk out treatments performed in our medical rooms with no sedation nor general anaesthetic.
5. What qualifications do the doctors at GCLMC have?
Dr Barbra Ward is a General Practitioner who specialises in surface leg vein treatments. Her qualifications are MBBS, FRACGP.
Dr Patrick Lyons is a Vascular Surgeon who specialises in larger varicose vein and deep vein treatments. His qualifications are MBBS, FRACS.
6. How long does the treatment take?
Surface vein treatments take 30 minutes. You should allow another 30 minutes straight after the treatment to walk.
Deeper or larger vein treatments may take 30 minutes to 1 hour.
7. Will it hurt?
The actual sclerotherapy injection is not too painful because the needle used is extremely fine (30 or 32 gauge) and the majority of patients find the whole procedure very straight forward. For the small number of patients who notice discomfort when the actual solution is injected, we have found that by using a particular saline to dilute the solution, the procedure is then very well tolerated. For patients who are more sensitive, taking an anti-inflammatory such as Nurofen before treatment can also be beneficial.
8. Can I return to work straight away after treatment?
Yes! You need to walk for 30 minutes straight after the treatment, and wear compression stockings for several days, but you can return to work the same day.
9. Can I exercise after a leg vein treatment?
We advised that you refrain from hot, sweaty exercise for 48 hours after your treatment. You can walk as much as you like.
10. Why didn’t I come in to see you earlier?
Great question! And one we commonly hear. Our treatments are easier and more accessible than you or your friends/family may realise. Spread the word!
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