Do Varicose Veins Come Back?

Varicose veins are a common concern for many people, causing both cosmetic dissatisfaction and physical discomfort. If you’ve planning to undergo treatment for varicose veins, you be concerned if varicose vein treatment is permanent.

While modern treatments are highly effective at eliminating existing varicose veins, it’s important to understand the potential for recurrence and the steps you can take to minimize the risk.

What Causes Varicose Veins to Develop?

To understand why varicose veins may recur after treatment, it’s helpful to know what causes them to develop in the first place. Varicose veins occur when the valves inside the veins become weakened or damaged, allowing blood to flow backwards and pool in the vein. This pooling causes the vein to become enlarged, twisted, and visible beneath the skin’s surface.

Several factors can contribute to the development of varicose veins, including:

• Genetics: Having a family history of varicose veins increases your likelihood of developing them.
• Age: As we get older, our veins naturally lose elasticity, making them more prone to valve dysfunction.
• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menopause, and hormone replacement therapy can all influence vein health.
• Lifestyle factors: Prolonged sitting or standing, obesity, and lack of exercise can contribute to poor circulation and varicose vein development.

Understanding these underlying causes can help you take proactive steps to prevent varicose veins from recurring after treatment.

The Effectiveness of Varicose Vein Treatments

Modern varicose vein treatments, such as endovenous laser therapy (EVLT), phlebectomy, and injectable treatments, are highly effective at eliminating existing varicose veins.

These minimally invasive procedures work by sealing off the damaged vein, redirecting blood flow to healthier veins nearby. Over time, the treated vein is absorbed by the body, leaving behind smoother, clearer skin.

These treatments offer excellent success rates and the veins that are removed are gone forever. However, it’s important to note that treatments do not prevent new varicose veins from developing in the future. “Recurrence” doesn’t mean that a treated vein comes back but that a new visible vein develops.

The rate of recurrence varies depending on individual factors, but some studies suggest that up to 20-30% of patients may experience new varicose veins within five years of treatment.

Minimizing the Risk of Varicose Vein Recurrence

While it’s not always possible to completely prevent varicose veins from recurring, there are several steps you can take to minimize your risk and maintain the results of your treatment.

Wear Compression Stockings as Directed

Compression therapy helps promote healthy blood flow and prevent blood from pooling in the legs. Wearing compression stockings daily, especially if you have a job that involves prolonged sitting or standing, can help reduce the risk of recurrence.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Excess weight can put added pressure on veins, so maintaining a healthy body weight through diet and exercise can help prevent varicose veins from developing.

Exercise Regularly

Engaging in regular physical activity, specifically exercises that promote leg muscle strength and circulation (such as walking, swimming, or cycling), can help keep your veins healthy and functioning properly.

Elevate Your Legs

When sitting or lying down, try to elevate your legs above the level of your heart. This helps encourage blood flow back to the heart and reduces pressure on your veins.

Avoid Prolonged Sitting or Standing

If your job or lifestyle involves long periods of sitting or standing, take frequent breaks to move around and stretch your legs. This helps prevent blood from pooling in your veins.

Follow Up With Your Vein Specialist

Attending regular follow-up appointments allows us to monitor your vein health and identify any early signs of recurrence. Early intervention can help prevent new varicose veins from becoming more extensive or symptomatic.

Partnering with a Trusted Vein Specialist for Long-Term Results

While varicose veins won’t come back after treatment, it is possible for new ones to form. Working closely with a skilled vein specialist can help you achieve long-lasting results and minimize the risk of recurrence.

If you’re concerned about varicose veins or have questions about preventing recurrence after treatment, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our practice. Call us today to take the first step towards a life free from the discomfort and appearance of visible veins.