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How to Recognize & Treat Bruising After Varicose Vein Surgery
Varicose veins are uncomfortable and can be embarrassing. Fortunately, varicose vein surgery can help alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life. However, since surgery involves an incision, it’s natural to worry about post-surgical bruising. In this article, we’ll explore the signs, causes, and treatments of post-varicose vein surgery bruising.
What Does Bruising After Varicose Vein Surgery Look Like?
Bruising after varicose vein surgery usually appears in the form of redness, pain, and/or discoloration on or around the incision site. The discoloration may initially look purplish-blue or yellow, but over time it will usually fade to a brownish-red or greenish-yellow color. Pictures of bruising after varicose vein surgery can help you recognize the signs and recognize your healing progress.
What Causes Bruising After Surgery?
Varicose vein surgery includes removal of the affected veins and this process can damage the nearby blood vessels, causing them to leak and create bruises. Additionally, bruising after surgery can also be caused by:
- A natural reaction to anesthesia and/or medications
- Poor circulation
- Swelling and inflammation at the surgical site
- Tissue trauma from the procedure
- Genetic factors like thin skin
How Is Post-Varicose Vein Surgery Bruising Treated?
It usually takes a few weeks for endoscopic varicose vein surgery bruising to heal, though this timeline may vary. Here are some ways to speed up your recovery:
- Wear compression stockings. Compression stockings help minimize swelling and promote blood flow in the legs.
- Take breaks. Avoid standing or sitting for long periods to keep the blood moving.
- Elevate your legs. Lay on your back and prop your legs up to help reduce swelling.
- Change dressings frequently. Damp dressings can lead to infection and slow down healing.
Seeking medical treatment for post-varicose vein surgery bruising is important. If the pictures of bruising after varicose vein surgery don’t improve after a few weeks, contact your doctor. They may be able to provide additional advice for reducing your bruising and swelling.
