Customer question:
How does varicose vein surgery work?
Pharmacist's response:
During this procedure or surgery, also called ligation and stripping, the surgeon ties off your affected vein (ligation) to prevent blood from collecting. In addition, a surgeon can remove (modify) a vein to prevent the recurrence of varicose veins. Varicose vein surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, which means you will fall asleep. You can generally go home the same day, but sometimes an overnight stay in the hospital is necessary, especially if the operation is on both legs.
How to prepare for varicose vein surgery?
If you smoke, now is the right time to quit smoking. Otherwise, it is best to give up this habit at least a few weeks before the operation. This reduces the risk of developing complications and, at the same time, improves your long-term health. Try to maintain a healthy weight as well. If you are overweight, there is a higher risk of complications.
Regular exercise should help you prepare for surgery, help you recover, and improve your long-term health. Before starting the training, consult with the medical staff or a personal physician.
Consider stopping the medications four weeks before surgery if you take oral contraceptive pills or hormone replacement therapy. The purpose of stopping taking such hormonal pills is to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). If appropriate, you will need to use alternative contraception. Your surgeon can discuss some other options with you. If you do not want to stop taking these pills, you may need injections or tablets for another week after surgery to effectively thin the blood and reduce the chance of a DVT.
How long does recovery take?
You should be able to go home the same or the next day, and you should be back to work within a few days, depending on the type of work. Once your wounds have healed, you should be able to carry out everyday activities and work duties.
Regular exercise helps you return to normal activities as soon as possible. However, before starting exercise, consult a medical staff or personal physician for advice. Most people recover completely after this type of procedure.
Taking optimal health outside is extremely important - if necessary, use tablets to strengthen veins.
Interesting reading: Walking after varicose vein surgery
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