Varicose Veins
Treatment Melbourne

Varicose veins appear as swollen, twisted, dark blue blood vessels under the skin. These veins commonly occur on the lower extremities, such as the legs and feet.

Normally, leg veins contain small one-way valves that help transport blood up to the heart. Varicose veins can develop when these valves do not function properly, leading to backflow of blood. This causes pooling within the veins, and the pressure may also extend into smaller blood vessels known as capillaries. When this happens, smaller “spider veins” may also appear. Patients with varicose veins notice discomfort such as aching or burning sensations in their legs.

At The DOC Clinic, Dr Ed Omarjee may provide treatment options for varicose veins, such as foam sclerotherapy. This approach places a foamed solution into the vein, which acts on the vessel wall. Over time, the body gradually reabsorbs the treated vein. Suitability and treatment planning will be discussed during consultation.

Aftercare

After varicose vein treatment, some patients may notice temporary effects such as redness, swelling, bruising, or discomfort in the treated leg. In some cases, the treated veins may look darker or more prominent for a period of time before gradually changing in appearance as the body reabsorbs them. The duration of these effects can vary between individuals.

Before leaving the clinic, Dr Ed Omarjee will provide aftercare instructions, which may include:

• Attend scheduled follow-up appointments.
• Avoid cigarette smoking, as it can affect circulation.
• Avoid direct sun exposure to the treated area to reduce the risk of skin discolouration.
• Avoid hot baths or saunas, as heat can worsen swelling.
• Avoid prolonged standing.
• Avoid strenuous exercise until advised.
• Avoid swimming until the treated area has settled.
• Avoid waxing or shaving the treated area until healed.
• Contact the clinic if swelling or discomfort persists.
• Avoid contact sports until cleared.
• Do not massage the treated area.
• Avoid sitting with legs crossed for long periods.
• Maintain hydration with regular water intake.
• Follow a balanced diet.
• Keep compression stockings dry.
• Wear compression stockings as instructed.
• Take gentle walks as advised.
• Monitor for signs of infection, such as warmth or unusual discharge.
• Wear comfortable clothing.

Varicose Vein Treatment Cost

Several factors can influence the cost of varicose vein treatment. These include the following:

• Practitioner’s fees: Cosmetic physicians offering the treatment may charge different professional fees. Their fees depend on factors such as their credentials and experience.
• Extent of treatment: The number of treatment sessions required will depend on the severity of your varicose veins. More treatment sessions mean additional costs.
• Other costs: Varicose vein treatment may require you to undergo some medical tests. The materials used during the procedure (e.g. medications or compression stockings) and follow-up appointments can also add to the overall costs.

When planning to get varicose vein treatment, you should consider these factors to make informed decisions. During your consultation, Dr Ed Omarjee may provide a breakdown of the potential costs associated with the treatment.

Risks and Complications

Varicose vein treatment, such as foam sclerotherapy, is associated with risks and complications. These include the following:

• Allergic reaction to the sclerosing agent: You may experience skin redness, itchiness, or breathing difficulty.
• Bruising and swelling: The treatment process can lead to tissue damage, resulting in bruising and swelling.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Blood clots may form in the deep veins of your leg.
• Pulmonary Embolus (PE): Blood clots can block vessels in your lungs.
• Formation of new, small blood vessels near the treated area (matting): The sclerosing agent can irritate the blood vessel lining, resulting in the formation of new, small blood vessels.
• Infection: You may develop an infection at the administration sites if microorganisms enter the area.
• Nerve injury: The procedure can damage the nerves in the treated area .
• Recurrence of varicose veins: New varicose veins may form over time, especially if you have non-functional or damaged vein valves.
• Skin discolouration at the administration sites: The treatment can increase the production of melanin (a pigment that gives colour to your skin), resulting in skin discolouration.
• Skin ulceration: This can occur if the sclerosing agent leaks outside the vein or if administered into an artery.

Is Varicose Vein Treatment Covered by Medicare Australia?

Medicare can cover a portion of varicose vein treatment, such as foam sclerotherapy. First, the procedure must be deemed medically necessary. A Duplex venous ultrasound is essential to show reflux of blood in the veins of concern in the lower limbs.