Recovery After the VenefitTM Procedure
For most patients, recovery from the VenefitTM procedure happens quickly and with little discomfort.
Do not drive yourself home. You will have an elastic bandage on your leg, extending from the foot to the groin. The bandage needs to stay on and remain dry for two days. If it feels too tight or too loose, you can re-wrap it.
Bed rest is not necessary and there is no need for crutches or a cane. You are encouraged to get back to your regular activities as soon as possible – people typically return to work in two to three days. Driving is permitted after 24 hours, as long as you are not taking heavy pain medication.
Pain medication is usually only needed for a day or two after surgery. A feeling of fullness, bruising, or soreness over the treated area is typical; sharp pain is uncommon. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen is adequate for most patients. Cool compresses and walking exercise can help.
A feeling of tightness in the inner thigh, sometimes described as a “rubber band sensation,” is common in the weeks or months following the procedure due to scar tissue forming around the treated vein. This is a normal part of the healing process. Gentle massage and stretching are encouraged. Many patients feel that it helps to rub arnica cream into the area.
A few days after surgery, we perform a repeat ultrasound to ensure that the treated vein is successfully closed. A week or so later, we see you again to check the wounds.
The risks of surgery are low (less than one to two percent). Occasionally, we see wound healing problems, minor infection, or a small clot under the skin surface. The risk of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is less than one percent (similar to the risk of DVT if you had a cast on your leg).