Two days ago I had my RFA and Stab Phlebectomy on for varicose veins. Question regarding post procedure and recovery.

Question

So, This is a follow up to my previous question asked about if RFA and Stab Phlebectomy was a good approach for my vein treatment. I got my RFA done on my thigh and stab phelectomy on the remaining bulging veins. My question is that... How long should the pain last? My skin is still tender to touch and still hurts when I run my hand over where the procedure was done. Also, should I wear compression stocking after I remove my ace bandage? Thanks

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

It’s important to distinguish between varicose veins and spider veins when choosing between laser therapy, sclerotherapy, and vein surgery. With two board certified vein specialists, our center uses a combination of visual examination, functional flow measurements, ultrasound, transillumination, and infrared light to map out vein networks prior to therapy. Lasers can be used to treat deep varicose vein insufficiency, vein perforators, and varicose veins. Sclerotherapy is ideal for spider veins and reticular veins. Whereas surgery is reserved for severely incompetent varicose vein segments.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

This is the reason why I don't combine the 2 procedures and stage them, meaning endovenous laser in a separate 1st session and microphlebectomy to follow later, namely a week or 2 later.
I place all of my patients on a bioflavonoids formula to reduce pain and inflammation (see link below) and recommend the use of ibuprofen and topical heat. Ice for the first 2 days and switch to topical heat on day 3 post procedure. 
Hratch L Karamanoukian MD FACS

Michael M. Omidi, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question! It's not uncommon to experience some discomfort two days after the procedure. Typically it may persist for one or two weeks. During this period, it's advisable to wear compression stockings to promote healing. If the pain continues after two weeks, be sure to notify your physician.   
An in-person exam with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to assess your needs and obtain expert medical advice. Best of luck!

W.Y. Chung, MD · Answer

Sometimes the pain can last up to 2 weeks. Compression stockings help post procedure. In our practice, we recommend 2 weeks of compression stocking wear.

Michael Nguyen, MD · Answer

Most
patients after RFA report improvement in their symptoms within one to two weeks
following the procedure. It is recommended to wear compression stocking for at
least a week and up to three weeks following the removal of the ace bandages and
at this time you only need to wear it during the day and not at night. Also, it
is recommended to avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for two weeks
after the procedure. Always follow up with your physician after the procedure
for your post op ultrasound scan that checks for lower extremity deep veins
patency and closure of the superficial vein that was treated. Also, follow up with your physician for any concerns or questions you may have. It can take up to 2 month or more to see full
results for both treatments. 
All the best,

John Landi, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon to have pain over the lasered areas for several weeks. Usually ibuprofen and wet heat to the areas will resolve the discomfort. I recommend wearing compression hose for 48 hours after removing the ace bandage on the day after surgery.

Two days ago I had my RFA and Stab Phlebectomy on for varicose veins. Question regarding post procedure and recovery.

Answers (6)

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