The Best Time to Treat Varicose Veins is Just Around the Corner

Varicose veins affect nearly one in five adults today. If you are one of them, you may be wondering if you should see a vein specialist. Varicose veins, unlike spider veins, can be more than a cosmetic nuisance. Spider veins are the tiny, wrinkled veins that make blue and purple webs on the skin. Varicose veins are deeper. They are larger. They can ache and throb and burn. And, without treatment, they can worsen over time.

Vein treatments have improved significantly over time. However, some patients may need to schedule vein closure or removal at a time when recovery will be simpler. Fall may be the ideal time. Here’s why.

1. Compression stockings are better suited to cooler weather. After varicose vein treatment, patients are advised to wear compression stockings. These long socks place pressure on healing veins to assist with the transfer of blood flow from closing veins to those nearby. Additionally, compression stockings also hold the veins and nerves snugly and in a way that promotes comfort. Finally, in some instances, insurance companies require patients to engage in conservative treatments such as compression before they agree to cover interventional treatments that close or remove painful veins.
2. Gentler sun rays promote healing. When the sun is hot and we gravitate toward it, we expose our skin (and our veins) to too much ultraviolet light. The wavelengths of light in the intense sunshine are known to dilate the veins, which can promote stagnation in parts of dysfunctional veins. Additionally, UV rays degrade collagen in the skin, contributing to weakening in the vein walls.
3. Treating veins in the Fall or Winter ensures you’re ready for next year’s warm weather. It can take at least a few weeks to see a difference in the appearance of the skin after vein treatment. Depending on the extensiveness of varicose veins, several weeks and a few treatment sessions may be needed to fully correct the cosmetic impact of venous insufficiency. Starting now means you are prepared for the holidays and Little Black Dress season. Starting in the next few months means you can wear shorts or skirts confidently when Spring arrives.

Dr. Tonnessen and the team at the Vein Institute of Hunterdon are proud to provide comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services to patients in the Clinton and Bridgewater areas of New Jersey. Contact us at (908) 788-0066 to schedule your consultation.