The main reason we don’t strip varicose veins any more is because there are now far less invasive treatments available. But it’s still a myth that varicose veins are stripped out. It is often the main reason why people leave varicose veins untreated.

We use a minimally invasive form of medical adhesive to seal off the vein called Venaseal. It starts with a local anaesthetic so the patient is awake throughout. Tiny amounts of the adhesive are deposited along the vein. The adhesive works by reacting with your own blood, making it sticky enough to seal the vein – it is your own blood that is actually doing the sealing. Both the sealant and the vein will gradually be absorbed by the body over time.

By using this method it means the patient can resume normal activities much faster compared to vein stripping. Vein stripping is an operation with many weeks recuperation. Among the benefits of these modern treatments, which have been in New Zealand for many years, are fewer complications from treatment and less pain during. Plus long term, the outcomes are better, the veins are more likely to fade more quickly and cosmetically the patients veins will look better.

Sclerotherapy, where a sealant is injected into smaller veins, is another modern method used by the vein specialist. This is usually done at the same time as the ‘medical glue’ procedure. As with ‘medical glue’ (Venaseal) this treatment method is less invasive with better outcomes than when veins were stripped.

 

Can you leave varicose veins untreated?

Varicose veins are a medical condition and, contrary to belief, not just a cosmetic one. As with any injury or condition the more quickly the issue is dealt with, generally the better the outcome for the patient. When veins become varicose it means they are no longer doing their job of transporting blood back to the heart. The blood is pooling and sluggish. While symptoms, like heavy legs and aching legs, may be experienced, it is the bulging, ropey look of varicose veins that highlight the issue for most patients. Leaving varicose veins untreated is generally not recommended, as they can lead to several complications, see below.

When to worry about varicose veins

While some individuals may not experience any significant symptoms initially, untreated varicose veins can cause discomfort, swelling and pain over time. More severe complications may include skin changes, ulcers, blood clots and bleeding. It’s important to seek medical advice to manage varicose veins effectively and to help prevent these potential issues.

You can start by wearing compression stockings to help relieve symptoms, especially if you stand all day. Compression stockings help keep blood circulating. But these generally provide short-term relief. The best option is to have a consultation at a vein clinic with a vascular specialist who will organise an ultrasound scan before your appointment to diagnose the severity of the issue.