What Are the Indications for Varicose Vein Surgery? Discover the Best Treatment for You
Varicose veins can progress if left untreated, potentially reducing your quality of life. However, not all varicose veins require surgery. This article provides a detailed explanation of the indications for varicose vein surgery and helps you find the most suitable treatment for your condition.
When Is Surgery Appropriate for Varicose Veins?
Surgical indications are recommended when the severity of symptoms and their impact on daily life meet the following criteria:
① Symptoms Interfere with Daily Life
If you experience any of the following symptoms and conservative treatments (such as compression stockings or lifestyle improvements) have proven ineffective, surgery may be indicated:
- ✅Nocturnal or morning leg cramps
- ✅Heaviness or fatigue in the legs
- ✅Restless legs syndrome (uncomfortable sensations in the legs)
- ✅Swelling in the legs
- ✅Pain or swelling due to thrombosis in varicose veins
- ✅Skin discoloration or eczema (stasis dermatitis)
- ✅Skin ulcers on the legs
② Concerns About Appearance
Varicose veins can cause noticeable cosmetic changes, leading to psychological stress or insecurity, such as:
- ✅Prominent, tortuous veins visible on the skin
- ✅Skin discoloration from long-term neglect
These cosmetic concerns are particularly significant for women, making “cosmetic improvement” a valid reason to consider surgery from a medical standpoint.
③ Confirmed Venous Reflux
Ultrasound (Doppler) examinations must confirm the following conditions to qualify for surgery:
- ✅Reflux in saphenous veins (great saphenous vein, small saphenous vein, accessory saphenous vein)
- ✅Reflux in perforator veins (reflux from deep veins to superficial veins)
- Venous dilation
Even if you have symptoms like heaviness or swelling, surgery may not be indicated if venous reflux is not detected on ultrasound.
Cases Where Surgery Is Not Indicated
Not all varicose veins require surgery. In the following cases, conservative treatment is more appropriate:
- ✅No symptoms or concerns about appearance
- ✅During pregnancy
- ✅Wheelchair users or bedridden individuals
- ✅No venous reflux detected on ultrasound
- ✅Symptoms improve with lifestyle changes
Conclusion
Determining the need for varicose vein surgery requires a careful evaluation of symptoms and venous condition. Avoid self-diagnosis and seek an accurate assessment at a trusted medical facility.
The Varicose Vein Clinic TOKYO has extensive experience in treating varicose veins and offers “no incisions, no stitches, and no pain” treatments. If you’re unsure whether surgery is necessary, please feel free to consult us.
