Venous Ulcers
What are Venous Ulcers ...
A venous ulcer is a long-lasting sore on the lower leg that takes more than 2 weeks to heal. It often happens near the ankle when leg veins do not move blood back up to the heart well. Over time, pressure builds in the veins, the skin becomes weaker, and even a small cut can turn into a sore that is slow to heal. Venous ulcers should be checked early, because they can get worse or become infected if left untreated.
Venous ulcers may be linked with:
- Swelling in the lower leg or ankle
- Skin that looks darker, thickened, or hardened
- Itching or irritation around the lower leg
- Fluid leakage from the sore area
Types of treatments for Venous Ulcers ...
Not every venous ulcer needs the same treatment. Your plan depends on the size and age of the ulcer, swelling, skin changes, your overall health, and whether venous disease (like reflux or ‘leaky’ veins) is contributing.
Supportive care can help healing and reduce recurrence:
- Wound care and dressings (often shared with your GP/nurse or a wound clinic)
- Leg elevation (especially after long standing or sitting)
- Compression therapy when appropriate (to reduce swelling and vein pressure)
- Regular walking and gentle movement to support circulation
- Skin care around the ankle and lower leg to reduce irritation and breakdown
Where venous disease is a key cause, treating the underlying vein problem can be an important part of the plan. All venous ulcer-related vein treatments at Me Clinic are performed in-clinic, when appropriate after assessment and (often) duplex ultrasound mapping.
Venous Ulcers Treatment Options at Me Clinic:
- Duplex ultrasound assessment (when appropriate) to check reflux and map the cause
- Supportive ulcer care guidance (dressings, skin care, swelling reduction and recovery advice)
- Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy for venous disease contributing to ulcers
- Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) for venous disease contributing to ulcers
Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy ...
Some venous ulcers are linked to deeper feeder veins or refluxing veins that increase pressure in the lower leg. Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy uses ultrasound imaging to help locate and treat the correct vein.
Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy may be discussed when:
- A deeper or less visible vein is contributing to ongoing venous pressure
- There are feeder veins beneath the surface, linked to the ulcer area
- Ultrasound mapping shows reflux that can be targeted safely and accurately
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) ...
EVLA is often used when a larger refluxing ‘source’ vein is contributing to high vein pressure in the lower leg. EVLA places laser energy inside the vein to seal the problematic vein closed, so blood can reroute through healthier veins.
EVLA may be discussed when:
- A larger “trunk” vein (such as a saphenous vein) is refluxing on ultrasound
- Ongoing venous pressure is contributing to skin changes or delayed healing
- A plan is needed to address the reflux source alongside wound care and compression
Benefits of treating Venous Ulcers ...
Not everyone will have the same outcome. Healing depends on the size and age of the ulcer, swelling, skin changes, your general health, and whether underlying reflux is present.
Depending on your treatment plan, care may help to:
- Support healing and reduce fluid leakage
- Reduce swelling and heaviness in the lower legs
- Improve comfort and day-to-day movement
- Reduce skin irritation and inflammation around the ankle and calf
- Lower the chance of the ulcer coming back by reducing ongoing vein pressure
FAQs ...
What causes venous ulcers?
They usually happen when leg veins are not working well, and pressure builds over time. This pressure can weaken the skin and make wounds slow to heal.
Are venous ulcers dangerous?
They can become serious if left untreated, especially if they get infected. Early assessment and proper care are important.
How do I know if my ulcer is venous?
Venous ulcers often form near the ankle and come with swelling and skin darkening or thickening. A clinician can assess the pattern and may use ultrasound if needed.
Do I need an ultrasound for a venous ulcer?
Often, yes. Duplex ultrasound can find refluxing “source” veins and help guide the safest and most effective treatment plan.
What treatments help venous ulcers heal?
Wound care, dressings, leg elevation, and compression (when appropriate) are commonly used. Treating underlying venous disease may also be recommended to reduce pressure and support healing.
Will treating varicose veins help a venous ulcer?
In many cases, treating underlying refluxing veins can support healing and reduce recurrence risk. Suitability depends on your assessment and ultrasound findings.
How long do venous ulcers take to heal?
It varies a lot. Smaller, newer ulcers often heal faster than large or long-standing ulcers.
Can venous ulcers come back?
Yes. They can recur if swelling and vein pressure return, so longer-term management is often important.
What are signs my ulcer may be infected?
Signs can include increasing redness, warmth, swelling, worsening pain, pus, a bad smell, or fever. Seek medical care promptly if these occur.
When should I seek urgent medical help?
Seek urgent help if you have heavy bleeding, rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, fever, or sudden severe leg swelling, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
Can I still walk if I have a venous ulcer?
Often, yes. Gentle walking can help circulation, but follow your clinician’s advice about activity, dressings, and compression.
Do I need compression for a venous ulcer?
Compression is commonly recommended when appropriate because it helps lower vein pressure and swelling. Your clinician will check if compression is safe for you and guide you on the right type and use.
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 Venous Ulcer treatments at Me Clinic …
Book your Venous Ulcer consultation ...
If you are considering a Venous Ulcer 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.