Varicose Veins
What are Varicose Veins ...
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that most often develop in the legs. Some people notice them mainly because of how they look, while others notice heaviness, aching, swelling, itchiness, or restless legs, especially after standing or at the end of the day. At Me Clinic, varicose vein care is focused on:
- Finding the source of the problem (often ‘leaky’ vein valves causing reflux) using a clinical assessment and, when appropriate, duplex ultrasound mapping.
- Offering non-surgical treatment options commonly used for varicose veins, such as sclerotherapy (including ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy for deeper/less visible veins) and Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) for larger refluxing veins when suitable.
Types of treatments for Varicose Veins ...
Not everyone needs a procedure. Treatment depends on your symptoms, ultrasound findings, and the size/location of the veins. Some people start with conservative care, while others benefit from procedural treatment. These can help with symptoms and day-to-day comfort, and may be recommended alongside procedures: Conservative measures such as regular walking, leg elevation, and compression stockings may improve symptoms, but they don’t always remove visible varicose veins once present. All varicose vein treatment options are performed in-clinic.
Varicose Veins Treatment Options at Me Clinic:
- Sclerotherapy for Varicose Veins
- Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy
- Endovenous Laser Ablation EVLA (for larger refluxing veins)
- VenaSeal Vein Glue
What is Sclerotherapy ...
Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution into a vein to irritate the vein lining, causing it to close. Blood is redirected through healthier veins, and the treated vein gradually fades over time.
Sclerotherapy may be considered for:
- Certain varicose veins and tributary veins
- Smaller veins that may worsen over time
- Treatment plans where multiple areas need staged treatment (often more than one session)
What is Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy ...
Some varicose veins are not easily seen on the surface, or they connect to deeper feeder veins. Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy uses ultrasound imaging to help target the correct vein. Me Clinic often prioritises ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy for more thorough and consistent treatment of varicose veins.
What is Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) ...
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) is used for larger refluxing veins. EVLA is a minimally invasive treatment that uses laser energy inside the vein to seal a problematic vein closed. Blood is then redirected to healthier veins.
EVLA is often discussed when:
- A larger ‘trunk’ vein (like a saphenous vein) is refluxing on ultrasound
- The varicose veins are extensive, bulging, or linked to a larger underlying reflux source
What is VenaSeal Vein Glue ...
VenaSeal is a medical-grade vein glue used to close a problem vein from the inside. A small tube is placed into the vein using ultrasound guidance, and tiny drops of glue are delivered to seal the vein shut. Blood then reroutes through healthier veins.
Your clinician will confirm if VenaSeal is suitable for you after assessment and ultrasound mapping. VenaSeal may be discussed when:
- A larger “trunk” vein is refluxing (leaking) on ultrasound
- Varicose veins are linked to a deeper source vein
- A non-thermal option is preferred, based on your assessment and medical history
Benefits of treating Varicose Veins ...
Not everyone will experience the same benefits, and results depend on factors such as vein size, location, underlying reflux, skin changes, and overall health. Depending on your individual diagnosis and treatment plan, varicose vein treatment may help to:
- Reduce leg aching, heaviness, throbbing, or fatigue
- Improve swelling around the ankles and lower legs
- Ease itchiness or irritation related to vein changes
- Improve the appearance of prominent veins
- Support long-term vein health in cases where varicose veins are contributing to progressive vein-related changes.
FAQs ...
Are varicose veins the same as spider veins?
Not exactly. Varicose veins are usually larger, bulging veins. Spider veins are smaller surface vessels and may be treated differently.
Do varicose veins always need treatment?
No. Some people don’t need treatment if they have no symptoms or complications. Others choose treatment for comfort, skin changes, or appearance.
Do I need an ultrasound before treatment?
Often, yes, especially if veins are larger, symptoms are significant, or the source vein isn’t obvious. Duplex ultrasound is commonly used to map reflux and plan treatment.
Is sclerotherapy painful?
Most people describe it as small pinches or mild stinging. Discomfort varies, and you can discuss pain control options during your consult.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on how many veins are being treated and whether you have an underlying refluxing vein feeding the area. Many people need more than one session.
Will the veins come back?
Treated veins usually close, but new veins can develop later because the underlying tendency can remain. Long-term management and review can help.
Do I have to wear compression stockings after treatment?
Many clinicians recommend compression after sclerotherapy to reduce bruising/swelling and lower complication risk. Your clinician will give instructions based on your plan. When can I exercise again? Walking is often encouraged. Higher-impact training is usually paused briefly, depending on treatment type and your clinician’s advice.
When should I worry about a clot?
Seek urgent medical help for sudden one-sided swelling/pain/warmth, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
why choose me clinic ...
With over 35 years of experience in plastic surgery, aesthetic cosmetic medicine, and skin rejuvenation, Me Clinic is built around a simple priority: patient-first care.
We take time to understand you as an individual and curate an approach that feels meaningful and appropriate for your needs. We listen, we care, and we support you through your journey — from consultation through to aftercare.
Our Phlebologist / Vein Doctor can advise on suitable options to address your concerns. In an ever-evolving field, we focus on evidence-informed care and contemporary treatment options, with suitability always assessed on an individual basis.
Practitioners who perform Varicose Veins treatments at Me Clinic …
Book your varicose veins consultation ...
If you are considering a Varicose Veins treatment, a consultation with our Phlebologist / Vein Doctor is your opportunity to discuss your symptoms or vein concerns, learn about suitable options, and understand what your personalised plan may involve.
Vein treatment commonly involves an initial assessment, and if treatment is suitable, your procedure(s) are typically booked for a later date. To begin your journey, call 1300 852 050 or enquire via our contact form.
We look forward to hearing from you soon and answering any further questions you may have.