FAQ
Do you have any questions? Please see below, the answers to the most common questions that patients ask us. If your question isn’t covered here feel free to give us a call and ask away.
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But don't we need all the veins we are born with?
Our legs contain many veins, some are superficial and others are deep. When some of the abnormal superficial veins are blocked by treatment, the normal veins will compensate and normalize the circulation in the leg.
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Shouldn’t I have surgery for my varicose veins?
According to the latest NICE (National Institute of Clinical Excellence), surgery should only be offered to treat varicose veins if other less invasive treatments are unsuitable for patients. Endovenous thermal treatment, EVLT or RFA, should be offered first, as it is a better alternative to surgery, and is both clinically and cost-effective.
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Are the treatments safe?
All treatments carried out at our clinic are performed by doctors specialising in the field. New treatments generally are lass invasive and safer than surgery yet there will always be the rare possibility of complications as with any medical procedure.
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What happens in the initial consultation?
In the initial consultation, you will have full history taking of your varicose vein and general health followed by clinical examination of the varicose veins. Then Ultrasound scan is performed to identify the anatomy of the veins and the underlying cause of your varicose vein. At the end of the consultation, you will be provided with a treatment plan and an estimate of the cost of your treatment. Rest assured our treatment prices are fixed and very competitive even compared to similar clinics practising outside Harley Street.
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How long do the treatments take usually?
It depends on your treatment. EVLT and RFA procedures for one leg usually take 30-40 minutes, and for both legs approximately one hour. Foam sclerotherapy will take 30-40 minutes depending on how many veins are injected. For other treatments, please ask during your initial consultation to get all the details.
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Does EVLT or RFA hurt?
There is minimal pain associated with the procedure. If you are anxious, a numbing cream, called EMLA, can be applied to your veins 40 mins before the procedure. Patients who are highly anxious can request sedation at an additional cost. For patients requesting these treatments a carer or relative is required to drive you back home.
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Can I walk straight after EVLT/RFA treatment to my leg vein?
Yes. The local anaesthetic is only placed around the vein and not into the leg muscles so walking is unaffected.
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Can I drive immediately following my treatment?
Again it depends on your treatment. If you had EVLT or RFA procedures, we recommend you to avoid driving for 24 hours after the procedure. If you had foam sclerotherapy or Microsclerotherapy, you can drive after your treatment.
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Do I need someone to come with me when I have laser treatment on my varicose veins?
No. Because the procedure is done under local anaesthetic you are able to walk to the tube station or take a taxi.
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Will I need to wear stockings?
After treatment you will be fitted with thigh-high/open toed class two compression stockings. During the day for the first two weeks after EVLT and RFA Treatments, you should wear compression stockings. You don’t need to wear them during sleep. Following foam sclerotherapy, you need to wear the stockings for one week. Any questions you have with regard to wearing of stockings will be explained when you attend for treatment.
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Can I continue with my usual sporting activities?
Low-intensity exercises such as cycling and swimming can be continued. However, you should avoid strenuous exercises such as running and heavy weights for the first 7-14 days after treatment or until you are able to return to these activities without discomfort.
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What are the restrictions after EVLT and RFA?
We recommend no strenuous activity such as running or heavy lifting for a couple of weeks after your treatment. You are encouraged to walk 20-30 minutes every day for the first two weeks. Showering is fine after treatment but no hot tubs or saunas for one week.
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Do I need to take time off work?
Almost all procedures performed are walk-in walk-out procedures. The majority of treatments for varicose or spider veins are carried out without the need for hospitalisation or sedation. Most patients will go back to normal activities and work after a few days.
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How soon after my EVLT/RFA procedure can I fly?
There is a very small increased risk of thrombosis following any flight.
If your flight is longer than 4 hours, it is generally advised you wait for at least 4 weeks prior to travel.