Discharge Instructions for Varicose Vein Surgery

You had a procedure in which your varicose veins were surgically treated. Here is what you can do following surgery to help with your recovery.

Home care

Recommendations for taking care of yourself at home include the following:

• For the first 2 weeks after surgery, avoid standing for long periods. Also avoid heavy lifting.
• Ask someone to help you run errands or do household chores for a few days after surgery.
• Keep your legs raised when you are sitting or lying down.
• Begin a regular walking program, starting the day after surgery. Just walk for a few minutes at first; then work up to 5 minutes at a time. Gradually increase to 15 to 20 minutes at a time, 2 to 3 times a day.
• Wear bandages or elastic stockings for as long as your healthcare provider tells you to. When you are sitting, move your feet back and forth and in circles to keep your blood moving.
• Ask your healthcare provider when you can resume driving and working.
• You may have some bruising in the area where the vein was removed.