Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins in the legs caused by faulty valves and prolonged standing. They can lead to pain, skin changes and even non-healing ulcers. Our clinic offers comprehensive diagnosis and minimally invasive treatments to help relieve symptoms and restore quality of life for patients with varicose veins.

Vascular varicose veins
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What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are dilated, enlarged and twisted veins that are usually seen in the legs. These abnormal veins develop when the blood that is supposed to return from the legs to the heart flows backward and pools in the veins. Over time, this backward flow (called reflux) causes the veins to bulge, twist and become visible just under the skin.

Many patients notice varicose veins as blue or purple swollen veins, sometimes accompanied by a heavy feeling in the legs, pain after standing or skin darkening near the ankles. If left untreated, varicose veins can progress to cause bleeding, skin ulcers and non-healing wounds, especially around the ankle.

Why Do Varicose Veins Occur?

To understand varicose veins, it’s important to know how blood flows in our body:

  • Arteries carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the limbs.
  • Veins return the “used” blood from the limbs back to the heart.

Veins in the legs have one-way valves that keep the blood flowing upward, against gravity. These valves work with the help of surrounding muscle contractions (especially calf muscles) to push blood upward. However, when these valves weaken or stretch due to pressure, the blood leaks backward and pools in the veins, leading to varicose veins.

This usually worsens while:

  • Standing for long hours
  • Sitting with legs hanging down
  • Being sedentary with poor muscle tone
Varicose Veins

Who Is at Risk?

Varicose veins are more common in:

  • People with a family history
  • Teachers, shopkeepers, traffic police, surgeons and others who stand for long hours
  • Pregnant women due to hormonal and pressure changes
  • Individuals who are overweight
  • Older adults due to age-related vein weakening

Symptoms of Varicose Veins

Some patients notice only mild symptoms, while others experience more severe problems:

  • Visible bulging veins especially while standing
  • Leg heaviness or aching that worsens during the day
  • Itching, dryness, or skin flaking around the veins
  • Discoloration around the ankle (brown or black pigmentation)
  • Swelling in the ankles or lower leg
  • Bleeding from the veins after minor trauma
  • Non-healing ulcers over the ankle or shin

Can Varicose Veins Be Prevented?

While we can’t always prevent varicose veins (especially if there’s a genetic tendency), we can reduce the risk and slow their progression with a few lifestyle changes:

  • Avoid standing for long periods — take breaks to sit or walk.
  • Walk regularly and keep your calf muscles active.
  • Keep body weight in check.
  • Elevate your legs after a long day.
  • Wear compression stockings if you’re in a high-risk profession.
  • Avoid tight clothing around the thighs.

When to See a Vascular & Endovascular Surgeon

You should consult a vascular specialist if you have:

  • Painful, bulging veins
  • Skin flaking, itching or discoloration over the ankles
  • A non-healing wound or ulcer
  • History of bleeding from a vein
  • Sudden swelling or redness in one leg (to rule out deep vein thrombosis)
  • Cosmetic concern due to visible veins

Early intervention can prevent complications and offer a wider range of treatment options.

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Treatment Options for Varicose Veins

Thankfully, treatment has advanced significantly. Gone are the days when painful surgeries and long recoveries were the only choices.

Today, we offer minimally invasive, daycare-based procedures that are effective, safe, and cosmetically acceptable.

  • Medications to strengthen vein walls
  • Anti-inflammatory agents to relieve pain or swelling
  • Supportive compression stockings for symptom relief
  • First line of conservative treatment
  • Medical-grade stockings that help push the blood upward
  • 4-layer compression bandaging is used for venous ulcers until healed

These are office-based procedures done under local anesthesia or sedation. The goal is to seal the faulty veins from inside, so blood flows through healthier veins.

Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)

  • A thin fiber is inserted into the vein, and laser energy is used to seal it shut.
  • No cuts, stitches, or hospitalization required.
  • Quick recovery, minimal pain.

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

  • Uses heat via radio waves to close off the vein.
  • Similar outcomes to laser, with low complication rates.

Endovenous Glue Therapy

  • A special medical glue is used to seal the vein.
  • No thermal energy or post-op stockings needed.
  • Ideal for needle-phobic or elderly patients.

Microwave Ablation

  • A newer modality that uses microwave energy.
  • Efficient in treating large-caliber veins with minimal heat spread.

Sclerotherapy

  • Suitable for smaller veins and cosmetic concerns (spider veins).
  • A medicine is injected into the vein, causing it to collapse and fade.
  • Performed alongside endovenous procedures.
  • Tiny incisions are made to hook out bulging veins.
  • Helps reduce symptoms and improves cosmetic appearance.
  • Removal of the entire saphenous vein via open surgery.
  • Rarely done today due to the success of endovenous techniques.
  • Reserved only for select cases where endovenous access isn’t possible.

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After the Procedure: What to Expect

  • Most patients walk out the same day and return to work in 1–3 days.
  • Mild bruising or tightness may be experienced initially.
  • Compression stockings may be needed for 2–4 weeks post-procedure.
  • Regular follow-ups with ultrasound are done to assess healing.
  • Long-term success rates are excellent when paired with lifestyle changes.

Will Varicose Veins Come Back After Treatment?

Treatment targets faulty veins — once closed, they don’t reopen. However, new varicose veins can develop in other normal veins over time due to aging, standing or poor habits. That’s why:

  • Regular leg care
  • Weight control
  • Physical activity
  • Periodic check-ups with a vascular specialist

are essential to maintain results and prevent recurrence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are varicose veins dangerous?


Not all varicose veins are harmful, but they can lead to ulcers, bleeding, and even deep vein thrombosis if ignored for long.

Do I need surgery?

Not necessarily. Many patients are managed with stockings and minimally invasive techniques like laser or glue ablation.

Are treatments painful?

Modern endovenous treatments are performed under local anesthesia and are well tolerated with minimal discomfort.

How soon can I walk or work after treatment?


Most patients can resume walking on the same day and return to light work in 2–3 days.

We aim to provide complete care for varicose veins

Take the First Step Toward Healthier Legs

Accurate diagnosis to customized treatment plans — all under one roof. Whether you’re struggling with pain, non-healing wounds, or just want to improve the appearance of your legs, we are here to help. Book an appointment today and take the first step toward healthier, pain-free legs.