Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that most often appear on the legs. They can cause discomfort, swelling, and cosmetic concerns — and if left untreated, may lead to more serious vascular issues. At Surgical Associates, our surgeons provide comprehensive varicose vein treatment options designed to relieve symptoms, improve appearance, and support long-term vein health. Understanding the available treatments helps patients make confident decisions about their care.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Veins carry blood back to the heart through one-way valves. When these valves weaken or fail, blood can pool in the legs, increasing pressure inside the veins. Over time, this causes veins to stretch and become visibly enlarged.

Common contributing factors include genetics, pregnancy, prolonged standing, obesity, and aging. Although not always preventable, early evaluation can minimize complications and improve comfort.

When to Seek Treatment

Many people live with varicose veins for years before seeking help. However, ignoring symptoms can worsen swelling, pain, and skin irritation. You should contact a vascular specialist if you experience:

• Aching or heaviness in the legs after standing
• Leg swelling or skin discoloration
• Visible bulging or rope-like veins
• Ulcers or sores near the ankles
• Persistent itching or burning
  

Even when symptoms seem mild, professional evaluation ensures that underlying vein disease isn’t progressing. At Surgical Associates, our vascular team performs detailed assessments to recommend the best varicose vein treatment plan for each patient.

Non-Surgical and Lifestyle Approaches

Not every case of varicose veins requires surgery. Early-stage disease or mild symptoms can often be managed through conservative measures aimed at improving blood flow.

Compression Therapy

Wearing compression stockings helps the veins and muscles move blood more efficiently. These specialized garments apply gentle pressure to the legs, reducing swelling and preventing blood from pooling. They’re often used as the first line of treatment and are available in various strengths and lengths.

Exercise and Movement

Regular walking or low-impact exercise supports circulation and can ease discomfort. Leg elevation after long periods of standing or sitting also helps reduce swelling.

Weight Management and Healthy Habits

Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on the veins. Avoiding tight clothing, limiting salt intake, and staying hydrated further support vascular health. While these steps won’t eliminate varicose veins, they can prevent progression and improve overall comfort.

Minimally Invasive Treatment Options

When lifestyle changes aren’t enough, several office-based procedures can effectively treat varicose veins without traditional surgery. These options offer quick recovery and excellent cosmetic results.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy involves injecting a medical solution directly into the affected vein, causing it to collapse and fade over time. It’s most effective for smaller varicose or spider veins and requires no anesthesia. Most patients can return to daily activities immediately after the procedure.

Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT)

This minimally invasive procedure uses laser energy delivered through a thin catheter to close off damaged veins. The blood naturally reroutes to healthy veins, and the treated vein gradually disappears. EVLT is typically done under local anesthesia and offers minimal downtime.

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Similar to EVLT, radiofrequency ablation uses heat generated by radio waves to seal diseased veins. Both techniques are proven, safe, and effective alternatives to vein stripping, with faster recovery and minimal discomfort.

Surgical Treatment Options

For more advanced cases or when minimally invasive therapies aren’t sufficient, surgical options may be necessary. Surgical Associates provides expert care for patients who require operative intervention for varicose vein treatment.

Ligation and Stripping

This traditional approach involves tying off and removing the affected vein through small incisions. Although less common today, it remains appropriate for certain severe cases. Patients typically resume normal activities within a few weeks.

Phlebectomy

In an ambulatory phlebectomy, small incisions are made to remove visible surface veins. It’s often performed under local anesthesia and can be combined with other techniques for optimal results. The procedure leaves minimal scarring and offers excellent cosmetic outcomes.

What to Expect During Recovery

Most minimally invasive varicose vein treatment procedures are completed on an outpatient basis. After treatment, patients are encouraged to walk to promote circulation and reduce the risk of clotting. Compression stockings may be prescribed for a few weeks to support healing.
Mild bruising or tenderness is common and typically resolves within days. Our surgeons provide personalized aftercare instructions and schedule follow-up visits to ensure proper recovery.

Long-term success often depends on ongoing lifestyle habits, including regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding prolonged standing or sitting. By combining medical treatment with preventive care, patients achieve lasting comfort and confidence.

The Importance of Professional Care

While over-the-counter creams or home remedies may promise quick fixes, they cannot correct the underlying valve dysfunction that causes varicose veins. Proper diagnosis from a vascular specialist ensures safe, effective, and lasting results.

At Surgical Associates, every varicose vein treatment plan begins with a thorough evaluation that includes ultrasound imaging to map vein flow. Our surgeons then recommend the most appropriate solution — whether that’s conservative management, minimally invasive therapy, or surgery. Patient education and comfort remain our top priorities throughout the process.

For additional patient education, trusted organizations such as the American College of Phlebology and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute provide in-depth resources about vein disease and circulation health (ACP, NHLBI).

Choose Surgical Associates for Expert Vein Care

At Surgical Associates, our vascular specialists combine advanced technology with compassionate care to help patients overcome the discomfort and appearance of varicose veins. Whether you need preventive guidance or a tailored varicose vein treatment plan, our team is ready to help you move comfortably and confidently again.

Contact Surgical Associates today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward healthier, pain-free legs.