Tingling, Slight Pain and Numbness in the Legs After Laser Vein Treatment - Normal?

Question

5 Days post-op. I didn't visit an MD unfortunately and am now worried about these items, especially as I was told the only side effect I could potentially experience would be blisters.

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Hello!  Thank you for your question!  Numbness after any surgical 
procedure is expected for several weeks to months following.  As the 
nerves to the area are traumatized and will then experience a temporary 
neuropraxia, a transient loss of nerve conduction.  This usually 
resolves over the next 6-12 weeks, but depending on the procedure 
performed, sometimes much longer.  Typically this should resolve by 1 
year.  As it goes past this date, the likelihood of the sensation 
returning is small.  However, it can take up to 2 years.  If no return 
from there, it is unlikely to return.  It should be discussed that 
persistent sensory changes may develop following any surgical 
procedure.  The usual signs of the nerves regenerating and neuropraxia
 resolving is itching, followed by a burning sensation and then 
occasional sharp, shock-like pains.  These will be normal to experience,
 and actually a promising sign.  Usually, normal sensation returns, but 
is is also possible to have decreased sensation or even increased 
sensation to the areas affected.  Re-educating nerves postoperatively is
 often helpful and will allow proper instruction for the affected 
sensory nerves - methods include using different textures to the 
affected areas when showering, bathing, applying lotion, etc.  If 
bothersome, there are some medications that may be helpful, including 
Neurontin for pain for hypersensitivity.  You can try various textures 
such as washcloths, loofahs, cotton sheets, etc.  Massaging the areas is
 also beneficial for the incision to make the finest scar possible.  The
 last place to regain the sensation will be directly adjacent to the 
incision/scar as the nerves will make its way from the periphery to this
 location.  If continual pain arises, evaluation is warranted.  After 
ruling out other causes, one rare explanation may be that a neuroma has 
developed and may require surgical excision.  This is very unlikely 
unless a large sensory nerve has been transected inadvertently during 
the procedure.  Hope that this helps!  Best wishes!

Vivek Bansal, MD · Answer

If enough veins are treated, there can be swelling and this can cause some tingling with the fluid retention.  This is not something to be too overly concerned with.

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

If this was an endovenous ablation procedure like EVLT, you should see the vein specialist who performed the procedure.If this was cosmetic laser procedure, the numbness will go away in most cases.

Timothy Mountcastle, MD · Answer

this will sometimes occur after laser treatment. just wait it out and it should go away.  sclero typically has less side effect profile but even sclero can cause staining or hyperpigmentation if not done properly.

Victoria Karlinsky-Bellini, MD · Answer

The tingling and slight pain are normal, however if you have significant numbness through the  leg, that is not a normal post procedure occurrence and you should have it examined by the doctor who performed the procedure.  Your doctor will be able to advise you as to what needs to be done, if anything at all.

Tingling, Slight Pain and Numbness in the Legs After Laser Vein Treatment - Normal?

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Answer: Laser veins

Answer: Laser veins

Answer: Laser vein treatment

Answer: Laser vein treatment

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Tingling, Slight Pain and Numbness in the Legs After Laser Vein Treatment - Normal?

Answers (7)

Answer: Laser veins

Answer: Laser veins

Answer: Laser vein treatment

Answer: Laser vein treatment

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