What are varicose veins?
Are you sick and tired of those unsightly bulging blue veins on your legs? Have they stopped you from enjoying your summer outfits?
Well, so are we. Our network of cosmetic experts here utilise a combination of knowledge and evidence-based practice to provide the most effective varicose vein treatment Sydney and Miranda, Sutherland Shire residents can turn to.
Those bulging leg veins are called varicose veins or varicosities. They are typically going on the lower extremities and often present as swollen, raised veins with a blue tinge. Varicose veins are very common and affect nearly 25% of all women across the globe. Although the removal of these abnormal veins is usually due to aesthetic purposes, ignoring their problems may lead to further complications. Let’s take a look at how we can treat them.
Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged, and unsightly veins that occur on the legs for most patients. Although the exact cause of these veins is still relatively unknown, it has been shown that there are a number of cardiovascular risk factors associated with their presence such as venous disease (venous insufficiency) and blood pressure issues.
Causes of varicose veins
The heart’s function is to pump blood around our bodies through blood vessels known as veins and arteries. Veins are blood vessels that carry deoxygenated blood back to our hearts. Varicose veins occur as a result of the dysfunction of the valves present in our blood vessels. The valves in our blood vessels are there to prevent the backflow of blood. When disturbed or when they begin to fail, blood begins to pool in the veins instead of continuing around the body, which results in enlarged, larger varicose veins.
Difference between spider veins and varicose veins
Both varicose veins and spider veins are caused by venous disease. However, they differ in terms of shape, size, and how they can be treated.
Spider veins are more likely to present on the surface of the skin as tangles of spider-like blue, red or purple lines. They can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the legs and skin. They are not a concern for major health issues and so their treatment is mostly done for cosmetic purposes.
Varicose veins, however, are much larger and are raised above the skin’s surface. Although most people have no symptoms, varicose veins can cause pain, leg swelling, cramping, itchiness, and can seriously affect a patient’s quality of life.
Who is an ideal candidate for varicose vein removal?
Varicose vein treatment can be used to treat anybody who is experiencing symptoms associated with the condition. The best candidates for this treatment are those who:
- Are at risk of complication – If your varicose veins have led to the formation of ulcers or DVTs then treatment is necessary to prevent any further complication.
- You have aesthetic concerns – If the presence of these veins are causing you to have lower self-esteem, then treatment can significantly help boost your confidence.
- General health – It is always recommended to be in good general health when undergoing any procedure. Certain conditions may make treatment riskier, so a thorough medical history will be taken prior to your procedure to ensure the procedure is safe for you.
Benefits of varicose vein treatment
Aside from enhancing the aesthetic appearance of your legs, there are numerous other benefits for treating these abnormal veins, including:
- Pain reduction – the presence of varicose veins is associated with leg pain. Treating these veins can result in a significant increase in quality of life and allow patients to resume daily activities with comfort.
- Reduce the risk of cardiovascular health complications – When left untreated, varicose veins can result in the formation of ulcers and leg sores, increased bleeding, and the formation of Deep Vein Thrombosis (blood clot in the leg).
- Alleviate symptoms of restless leg syndrome (RLS) – RLS has been associated with the presence of varicose veins. Treating varicose veins can help prevent the discomfort and restless nights caused by RLS.
Varicose vein treatment options
Our patient base around Sydney is extremely diverse, and so, we pride ourselves on the ability to provide a number of treatments for the removal of varicose veins. Treatment initially starts with conservative methods and lifestyle interventions. For more serious medical concerns, physical treatments are used such as:
Endovenous Laser Therapy
Endovenous Laser Treatment or Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) is a new and innovative technique that utilises laser technology to treat the affected veins. During this treatment, a laser fibre is guided through the vein wall. The high energy laser will “burn” your vein and induce its closure, forcing the blood to find another route back to the heart.
This laser treatment is minimally invasive and is often performed under general anaesthesia and takes around 30-60 minutes. Laser therapy is also less traumatic to the surrounding skin and may be an attractive option for most.
Sclerotherapy
Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy is a very popular procedure for the removal of varicose veins. This procedure involves the injection of a sclerosant solution directly into the affected vein. This solution will target the cells that line the vein walls, causing the veins to swell and stick together. Over time, the venous blemishes turn into scar tissue and may disappear.
This procedure is popular due to the fact it requires no incision and can be performed in one hour. The relief provided is effective and the side effects experienced typically last a few minutes.
Surgery
When conservative treatments are exhausted, surgery can be used for large varicose veins. Surgery involves the surgical stripping or ligation of the leg veins. For surgery, we often refer patients to a vein clinic.
How much does varicose vein treatment cost in Sydney?
Varicose vein treatment costs vary in Sydney and Miranda, Sutherland Shire. The total cost is often multifactorial and takes into account the number of veins you need to have treated, the procedure used, and any aftercare garments you may need. For a full breakdown of your total cost, we recommend arranging a consultation with one of our with one of our cosmetic team members.
Why choose Shire Aesthetics And Vein Clinic
Unlike the presence of other medical conditions, if you suffer from varicose veins, then you are aware. Our team will work with you to remove these unsightly veins using the most minimally invasive procedures without jeopardizing your health. With years of combined experience and thousands of happy patients, you can rest assured knowing your health is in safe hands with us here at Shire Aesthetics And Vein Clinic.
If you have or are bothered by the presence of these veins, then contact us at your soonest convenience to discuss whether laser therapy, sclerotherapy, or a simple lifestyle change is the best treatment for you. We are conveniently located to offer varicose vein treatments for patients around Sydney, Miranda, and the surrounding communities of Sutherland Shire.
Meet Our Team
Why don’t you meet our friendly cosmetic physician in Miranda, Sutherland Shire below:
Dr Mutti Khan
Dr Khan has practised medicine for over 20 years. He uses the combination of knowledge he gathered from his time in General Medicine and he found his passion for cosmetic treatment to produce personalized treatments for all.
FAQs
Some of the most common questions regarding varicose veins are answered below:
Are varicose veins serious?
If left untreated, varicose veins can pose a serious health risk and lead to further complications.
What happens if varicose veins are left untreated?
If varicose veins are left untreated then further complications may occur, including:
- Blood clots
- Pain
- Swelling
- Numbness and Tingling
Is varicose vein treatment covered by Medicare?
A Medicare rebate can be claimed for some conditions associated with varicose veins.
Can you exercise after varicose vein treatment?
Gentle aerobic exercises are recommended after treatment. More vigorous exercise such as running or weight lifting must be cleared by your doctor first.
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