Varicose Veins: More Than a Cosmetic Concern

Varicose veins — those twisted, bulging blue or purple veins visible under the skin — affect up to 30% of adults. Many people dismiss them as a purely cosmetic problem and delay treatment. However, varicose veins are a sign of chronic venous insufficiency — a condition where the one-way valves inside veins weaken, allowing blood to pool instead of flowing back to the heart. Left untreated, this can progress to serious complications.

Beyond Appearance: Why Varicose Veins Matter

• Chronic pain, heaviness, and throbbing in the legs that worsens with prolonged standing
• Night cramps and restless legs disrupting sleep
• Itching, burning, and skin changes around the affected veins
• Swelling of the ankles and feet, particularly by evening
• Skin discolouration (hyperpigmentation) — brownish patches around the ankles
• Venous ulcers — open sores that are difficult to heal and can become infected
• Superficial thrombophlebitis — painful blood clots in surface veins
• Spontaneous bleeding from veins close to the skin surface

Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA): The Modern Solution

EVLA has replaced traditional vein stripping as the gold standard treatment for varicose veins. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia in about 45-60 minutes. A thin laser fibre is inserted into the diseased vein through a tiny puncture. Laser energy heats and seals the vein shut from within. Blood automatically reroutes through healthy deep veins, and the closed vein is gradually absorbed by the body. Patients walk out immediately after the procedure and return to normal activities within 1-2 days — no hospital stay, no stitches, minimal discomfort.

When Should You Seek Treatment?

Early treatment yields the best cosmetic and medical results. If you notice visible veins accompanied by any symptoms — heaviness, pain, swelling, or skin changes — consult a vascular specialist. At SurgeonForU, our Doppler ultrasound assessment provides a precise map of venous function, allowing us to recommend the most effective treatment plan. Delaying treatment allows the condition to progress, potentially requiring more complex interventions later.