Varicose vein surgery...scared!

[buckeyegirl]

Ok..so I'm over 40 and having "over 40 issues", lol. I inherited varicose veins from dear mother (thanks mom!) and am having the endovenous laser therapy and phlebectomies this Thursday. I don't know why, but I'm really nervous...I do tend to be a bit of a nervous nellie when procedures involving needles and such apply.

Basically they are going to have me apply EMLA cream all over the affected areas 2 hours prior, take a valium when I get there, they they infuse a local all around the veins and do the procedure. All of the testimonials have been positive that I've read..I'm hoping my experience is ok.

Anyone have this done? Would love some input to help my nerves.

Also bummed that I've gotten my running back in full swing, lifting weights, yoga, and now this little hiccup. Dr. says I can exercise again in 2 weeks, though. I have to get ready for my spring and summer 5k lineups!! At least my legs won't have bulging veins on them!!

Heidi

 

[MAYNARDSMOM]

Hi Heidi,

First of all, relax & take deep breaths, it's not so bad!! Promise Butts & Guts is worse!!

About 2 yrs ago I had I think the same thing done, don't remember the technical terms though. Sounds like the same. Did not put any cream on prior. Mine were bulging veins. Took valium when I got there, only took 1/2 because I didn't want alot. They numbed me up, all those needles you mentioned. Mine was right below my knee so they went from there up to my groin - took FOREVER. Once that was ready they tilted me back a bit, gave me some stylin' glasses & zapped away. My entire leg was wrapped from ankle to crotch so I walked stiff legged. Had to wear that 2 full days. Mind you Jan in New York having to wear shorts -HHHMMMM Good thing I work at home. They told me it wouldn't hurt until day 3 or 4. Ya know aht - they were right. I was doing work outs the next day - upper body. I did have 2 days of some good pain but nothing advil couldn't help.
All in all not so bad - I would do it again if I had to.
Let me know how it goes & relax. Think how beautiful your legs will look after!
Good luck

 

[buckeyegirl]

Thanks for your reply, Tami, I really appreciate it. Your leg issues and mine sound identical although they will be "pulling" some of the bad ones behind my knee too. Thanks for reassuring me. I plan on being "out of commission" from Thurs. thru Sun but then I go back to work. He said no kneeling (?) so this may prove difficult in my vet job where I kneel a LOT. Guess my techs will have to lift all my patients up for me! I'll have the groin-high stockings on as well - FUN! But, can't I fit sweats or running pants over them?

Thanks again for the info,
Heidi