Discharge Instructions for Varicose Vein Surgery
DISCHARGE AND AFTERCARE

Discharge Instructions for Varicose Vein Surgery

March 21, 2017

Discharge Instructions for Varicose Vein Surgery

You had a procedure in which your varicose veins were surgically removed. Here’s what you can do following surgery to help with your recovery.

Home care

Recommendations for taking care of yourself at home include the following:

  • For the first 2 weeks after surgery, avoid standing for long periods. Also avoid heavy lifting.

  • Ask someone to help you run errands or do household chores for a few days after surgery.

  • Keep your legs raised when you’re sitting or lying down.

  • Begin a regular walking program, starting the day after surgery. Just walk for a few minutes at first; then work up to 5 minutes at a time. Gradually increase to 15 to 20 minutes at a time, 2 to 3 times a day.

  • Wear bandages or elastic stockings for as long as your healthcare provider tells you to. When you are sitting, move your feet back and forth and in circles to keep your blood moving.

  • Ask your healthcare provider when you can resume driving and working.

  • You may have some bruising in the area where the vein was removed.

When to call your healthcare provider

Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following:

  • Severe bleeding, redness, or drainage at the incision sites

  • Development of an ulcer (sore) at the incision sites

  • Numbness or tingling in legs or feet

  • Increasing leg pain or swelling

  • Fever, shaking, or chills

  • Chest pain or shortness of breath

Updated:  

March 21, 2017

Sources:  

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Treatments of Varicose Veins. Murad M. Journal of Vascular Surgery. 2011;53(5):s49-s65., Patient Information: Vein Ablation (The Basics). UpToDate, The Care of Patients with Varicose Veins and Associated Chronic Venous Diseases: Clinical Practice Guidelines of the Vascular Surgery and the American Venous Forum. Gloviczki P. Journal of Vascular Surgery. 2011;53(16):s2-s48.

Reviewed By:  

Mancini, Mary, MD,Sather, Rita, RN