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Why winter is a good time to get your varicose veins treated

The new year brings an opportunity for fresh starts, and prioritising your health is often at the top of the list. If varicose veins have been causing discomfort or affecting your confidence, winter is an ideal time to address the issue and begin your journey toward healthier, summer-ready legs. 

By starting now, you’ll have ample time to heal and enjoy the benefits before the warmer months arrive.

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins occur when the valves in your veins don’t function properly, causing blood to flow backwards and pool. This results in swollen, twisted veins that you can see on the surface of the skin. Sometimes they can cause pain, heaviness, and swelling in your legs which, if left untreated, can worsen over time, leading to further discomfort. They’re something which isn’t going to improve on their own accord, so treating them not only improves the way your legs feel and look but also prevents future health issues.

How do you treat varicose veins?

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is most commonly used to treat large varicose veins in the thigh and back of the calf. Recommended as a first-line treatment by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, RFA involves using an ultrasound probe to guide a fine catheter into the vein, which transmits heat to collapse and seal the vein walls. Blood flow is then redirected through healthy veins.

Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy (UGFS) can also be used to treat more twisted veins. This involves making small punctures to insert tiny tubes, through which a foam mixture is injected to collapse and seal the vein. Like RFA, the procedure redirects blood flow through healthy veins.

To find out more about the treatments available to you, take a look at our FAQs blog

How long does it take for varicose vein treatments to work?

One of the most encouraging aspects of varicose vein treatment is the almost immediate relief many patients experience. Pain caused by the backward flow of blood often diminishes quickly after treatment, providing a sense of comfort and reassurance. While the healing process begins right away, the full benefits of the procedure unfold gradually. It can take about six months to see a significant improvement, with the healing process continuing for up to a year. Starting treatment in January ensures that by the time summer rolls around, you’ll be ready to show off your legs with confidence.

When is the best time to get your veins treated?

Winter, particularly the colder months, is widely considered the best time for varicose vein treatment. For one, wearing compression garments is much more manageable during winter. These garments play a crucial role in promoting blood flow and supporting recovery, but they can feel warm and restrictive in the summer heat. In winter, however, they fit seamlessly under your clothing, making them less noticeable and more comfortable to wear.

Additionally, the colder season minimises your exposure to the sun, which is especially important for healing skin. Sunlight can lead to hyperpigmentation or irritation on treated areas, so the shorter, darker days of winter work to your advantage. Winter also encourages a naturally slower pace, making it easier to prioritise rest and recovery without feeling like you’re missing out on outdoor activities or social events.

If varicose veins have been holding you back, there’s no better time than the start of the new year to take the first step toward healthier legs. By addressing the issue now, you’ll give your body the time it needs to heal and improve, ensuring you’re ready to embrace summer with confidence. 

Book your consultation today and make 2025 the year you leave varicose veins behind.