Best Time to Treat Varicose Veins: Treat Leg Veins Before Summer

Varicose and spider veins can cause more than just cosmetic concerns—heat and increased physical activity during summer can make these veins more uncomfortable, leading to heaviness, swelling, and aching legs. Ignoring the problem until summer arrives may limit your comfort during outdoor activities or vacations. Untreated varicose veins can also lead to serious health issues like chronic venous insufficiency. So when is the best time to treat varicose veins?

Imagine being ready to enjoy a beach day or a summer BBQ but not wanting to expose your leg veins or being too uncomfortable due to leg pain. On top of that, wearing the necessary compression stockings during the peak summer heat becomes unbearable, leaving you frustrated and reluctant to treat your veins.

The good news? Before summer is the best time to treat varicose veins. Treating varicose veins during spring ensures a smoother recovery, allows you to heal before summer fun begins, and lets you freely wear shorts or swimsuits. Whether you need minimally invasive sclerotherapy or advanced laser treatments, starting now guarantees you’ll step into summer with comfort, style, and peace of mind.

Understanding Varicose Veins and Spider Veins

Varicose veins and spider veins are two common conditions that affect millions of people worldwide. Varicose veins are larger, bulging veins that are usually blue or purple and often twist and protrude from the skin’s surface. Spider veins, on the other hand, are smaller, web-like veins that may be red, blue, or purple and are closer to the skin’s surface.

Varicose veins can cause a range of symptoms, including pain, swelling, itching, and burning sensations. If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to more serious health concerns, such as blood clots and skin ulcers. Spider veins, while often considered a cosmetic concern, can also cause discomfort and affect self-esteem.

It’s essential to understand the causes of varicose veins and spider veins to prevent them from occurring or worsening. Factors that contribute to the development of varicose veins and spider veins include genetics, age, obesity, and prolonged sitting or standing.

Why spring is a great time for vein treatments

Spring offers a unique opportunity to address varicose veins effectively before the summer heat sets in. As a transitional season, it provides the ideal window to plan cosmetic and medical treatments comfortably. Tackling vein issues during this time ensures you’ll be healed and ready to enjoy summer activities without discomfort.

➔ mild weather for recovery

One of the most practical reasons to start vein treatments in spring is the moderate weather, which creates an ideal environment for recovery. Many vein procedures, including sclerotherapy and endovenous laser or radiofrequency ablation, require patients to wear compression stockings during recovery to improve blood flow and reduce swelling. However, wearing these stockings in hot weather can be uncomfortable, causing some patients to avoid them.

Post-treatment care, including wearing compression stockings and engaging in physical activity, is crucial to prevent complications like deep vein thrombosis.

Spring’s mild temperatures make it easier to comply with post-treatment care requirements without discomfort. Additionally, the cooler days allow you to comfortably layer stockings under clothing while avoiding the temptation of skipping them due to heat. This comfort leads to better treatment outcomes and a smoother recovery—ensuring you can enjoy summer activities with confidence and healthier legs.

➔ avoiding the rush

As summer approaches, Me Clinic experience a surge in demand for cosmetic treatments, including varicose vein procedures. Many individuals wait until warmer months to address vein-related issues, often hoping to look and feel better just in time for vacations or outdoor activities. However, this increased demand can limit appointment availability and create scheduling challenges, leading to delays in treatment.

By starting treatment in spring, you’ll benefit from greater flexibility in booking consultations and procedures, ensuring your treatment fits seamlessly into your schedule. Early action also means you won’t have to compete with the summer rush, giving you a head start on recovery and better peace of mind as summer nears.

➔ optimal healing time

Varicose vein treatments, such as sclerotherapy and endovenous laser ablation, require several weeks for bruising and swelling to subside. While these procedures are minimally invasive, the body still needs time to heal and adjust. Some treatments, like sclerotherapy, may require multiple treatment sessions spaced a few weeks apart for optimal results. Choosing to treat your veins in spring ensures that any temporary side effects will resolve in time for summer, leaving your legs looking and feeling their best.

Spring provides the perfect opportunity to complete your recovery comfortably, allowing you to enjoy the summer months without worrying about discomfort or visible treatment effects. Starting early also means you can wear shorts, swimsuits, and dresses confidently, knowing your legs are ready for the season.

Benefits of Treating Varicose Veins Before Summer

Taking care of varicose veins in spring brings several advantages, ensuring that your legs are in their best shape by the time summer arrives. By starting treatment now, you’ll benefit from both a smoother recovery process and greater flexibility in scheduling as it is the best time to treat varicose veins.

Minimally invasive procedures such as sclerotherapy or laser ablation require a few weeks to fully heal, making spring the ideal season for a timely recovery.

Addressing varicose vein symptoms early can prevent them from worsening during summer. Additionally, addressing vein issues before the heat sets in helps prevent symptoms from worsening during summer when increased temperatures can exacerbate swelling and discomfort.

Acting early ensures you’re prepared to enjoy outdoor activities, vacations, and social events confidently—free from the discomfort and appearance of varicose veins.

➔ avoid heat-related swelling

Summer heat can cause veins to dilate, making symptoms like heaviness, aching, and swelling more pronounced. As temperatures rise, the circulatory system works harder, leading to increased pooling of blood in the veins, especially in the lower legs. This not only worsens existing varicose veins but also contributes to discomfort during physical activities, making it harder to enjoy summer outings.

Treating varicose veins before summer allows you to avoid these heat-induced complications, ensuring that your legs remain comfortable and pain-free. Starting treatment in spring gives your body the time it needs to recover, reducing the risk of swelling and heaviness that could otherwise interfere with your summer plans.

➔ compression stocking comfort

Wearing compression stockings is a crucial part of post-treatment recovery, as they promote healthy blood flow and reduce swelling. However, during summer, these stockings can feel hot and uncomfortable, leading some patients to avoid wearing them as recommended. By scheduling treatment in spring, you can comfortably follow your recovery plan while temperatures remain moderate.

Compression stockings can be easily worn under clothing without causing discomfort, ensuring better compliance and improving treatment outcomes. Spring provides the optimal weather for healing, so you’ll be ready to enjoy summer without the added burden of stockings in the heat.

➔ get ready for summer outfits

Starting varicose vein treatment in spring ensures your legs are healed and ready to shine in shorts, skirts, and swimsuits by the time summer arrives. Minimally invasive procedures like sclerotherapy or laser treatments often result in temporary bruising, swelling, or discolouration that can take several weeks to resolve. By acting now, you give your body the necessary recovery period, so by summer, you’ll feel confident and comfortable in your favourite summer outfits.

Whether you’re heading to the beach or planning outdoor events, early treatment guarantees that your legs will look and feel their best, free from the visible effects of varicose veins.

➔ reduced risk of complications

Inactivity during warmer months, such as extended periods of sitting or avoiding physical activities due to heat, can increase the risk of vein-related problems like thrombophlebitis—a condition where inflamed veins develop blood clots. Varicose veins already struggle with poor blood flow, and inactivity further exacerbates the problem, leading to increased pain and swelling.

Early treatment helps prevent such complications by restoring proper vein function before the hot summer months arrive. Addressing vein issues proactively ensures that you stay active and mobile throughout the season, reducing the likelihood of clot formation and allowing you to enjoy summer activities without discomfort.

Types of vein treatments available

There are several effective treatments for both varicose and spider veins, tailored to the severity and type of vein condition. If you’re looking to get rid of varicose veins safely and quickly, here’s a closer look at some of the most popular treatments

Non-surgical treatments are usually performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can go home the same day. These procedures generally do not require general anesthesia, involve minimal discomfort, and have little to no downtime, allowing patients to resume regular activities quickly.

Consulting with vein expert Dr Tim French, helps determine the best course of action based on your individual circumstances and health needs. Below are the main treatment options available:

➔ sclerotherapy

Ideal for treating spider veins and smaller varicose veins.
This treatment causes the problematic vein to collapse and eventually be reabsorbed by the body.
Sclerotherapy often requires multiple treatment sessions spaced a few weeks apart for optimal results.
Ultrasound guided sclerotherapy can be utilised for more precision for harder to reach veins.

For a detailed guide on what happens after sclerotherapy and how to optimize your recovery, check out Recovery After Sclerotherapy: A Comprehensive Guide by Me Clinic.

➔ endovenous laser ablation (EVLA)

This treatment uses laser energy to heat and close off larger varicose veins, improving blood flow in surrounding veins.
There is minimal discomfort during recovery.
It is the gold standard for treatment of varicose veins.
Most patients can return to normal activities within a day or two.

It’s essential to follow post-care guidelines to ensure a smooth recovery process, which you can read more about in our advanced perspective on recovery after vein treatment with EVLA.

➔ radiofrequency ablation (RFA)

Similar to EVLA but uses radiofrequency energy instead of laser to close off problematic veins.
Includes the same benefits and effectiveness for larger varicose veins.
Used interchangeably with EVLA.

➔ what to expect from treatment

Depending on the severity, multiple sessions may be needed, with each session spaced a few weeks apart for the best results.

Most non-surgical treatments are minimally invasive, meaning you can expect a quick return to normal activities. However, surgical procedures may require a week of downtime for full recovery.

Post-treatment care is essential, including wearing compression stockings to promote circulation and following any recovery guidelines provided by your doctor.

Choosing the right treatment involves careful planning to align with your schedule, as some recovery time may be needed before you can fully resume all activities. Consulting early makes sure that you receive the right treatment, with enough time for complete recovery before summer or important events. Any time before summer is the best time to treat varicose veins.

Preparing for your vein treatment

Proper preparation is essential to ensure the success of your vein treatment and to understand what will be required during your recovery. Treatments are tailored to each patient’s specific needs, which means the number of sessions, recovery expectations, and obligations may vary. Here’s what you need to know as you prepare for your treatment journey:

➔ schedule a consultation

You should be booking your consultation early to make appointments that work well with your schedule. Since some treatments may require multiple sessions, starting the process in advance ensures you have enough time for full recovery before summer or any special events.

During your consultation, the doctor will outline the treatment timeline, so having flexibility in your schedule will help make the process smoother.

➔ what to expect during your consultation

Your consultation is more than just a conversation; it’s the first step toward diagnosing your condition. Sclerotherapist and Phlebologist, Dr Tim French, will perform a physical examination and likely use ultrasound imaging to get a detailed view of the veins and assess the severity of your condition.

This imaging helps your doctor identify which veins require treatment and the most appropriate methods. The consultation will also cover:

Treatment options tailored to your needs.
Recovery timelines depending on the procedure (e.g., sclerotherapy vs. endovenous laser treatment).
Post-treatment care instructions, including wearing compression stockings.

Most minimally invasive procedures allow patients to return to their regular routine quickly, often within a day or two but this will be discussed thoroughly during your consultation.

➔ managing expectations

It’s essential to manage expectations, as some treatments may require multiple treatment sessions to achieve optimal results. For example, sclerotherapy treatments for spider veins often involve several sessions spaced a few weeks apart. While most procedures are minimally invasive, patients may experience temporary side effects, such as bruising and swelling, which can be managed with compression stockings.

Your doctor will provide a detailed recovery plan to help you stay on track. Following post-treatment instructions carefully will minimise side effects and improve your results.

Keep in mind that every patient’s journey is different, and your doctor will tailor the approach to meet your individual needs for the best possible outcome.

Planning ahead ensures that you are fully prepared for the process, leading to a smoother recovery and beautiful results in time for summer.

Book a consultation now for the best time to treat varicose veins

Treating varicose veins now means you’ll be ready to enjoy summer without discomfort. Early treatment relieves symptoms like heaviness and swelling while allowing your legs to heal fully before warm-weather fun begins.

By acting early, you’ll skip the summer rush and feel confident in your favourite shorts, swimsuits, and dresses. Professional care and a healthy lifestyle ensure long-lasting results and keep your veins healthy all season.

Book your consultation and assessment via our contact form today and step into summer with no discomfort.

Or alternatively, you can contact Me Clinic in the following ways:

Phone Me Clinic at 03 9569 3511
Get an online consultation assessment

Medical references about varicose vein treatments

Cotton, S. C., MacLennan, G., Brittenden, J., Prior, M., & Francis, J. (2016). Behavioural recovery after treatment for varicose veins. The British journal of surgery, 103(4), 374–381.
{Visit}
Gao, R. D., Qian, S. Y., Wang, H. H., Liu, Y. S., & Ren, S. Y. (2022). Strategies and challenges in treatment of varicose veins and venous insufficiency. World journal of clinical cases, 10(18), 5946–5956.
{Visit}

FAQs

1. What are the best exercises to improve circulation after vein treatment?

Light activities like walking are highly recommended to enhance blood flow and prevent new varicose veins from developing.

2. How can weight management support vein health?

Maintaining a healthy weight reduces unnecessary pressure on veins, lowering the risk of recurrence and easing leg discomfort.

3. Do I need to avoid sun exposure after treatment?

Yes, avoiding sun exposure is essential to prevent skin discoloration and promote smooth healing in treated areas. That is why treatment before summer is the perfect window.

4. When should I wear compression socks to protect my veins?

Compression socks are beneficial during long flights, extended sitting periods, or when standing for long durations to support healthy circulation.

5. How soon can I return to my regular activities after treatment?

Light activities like walking are encouraged right away, but it’s important to follow your doctor’s guidance regarding more intense activities for optimal recovery.

6. Can varicose veins be hidden or disguised?

Varicose veins appear as thick, twisted veins just below the surface of the skin and can be difficult to conceal without medical intervention.

7. When is the best time to get vein treatment?

Spring is a great time, but any window before summer is the best time to treat varicose veins to ensure a full recovery, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities without discomfort.

8. How many treatments will I need?

The number of sessions depends on the type of procedure and the extent of vein issues, with some treatments requiring multiple sessions spaced a few weeks apart.

Best Time to Treat Varicose Veins: Leg Veins Treatment Before Summer