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# Vascular & Venous Treatment

## Me Clinic Vascular & Venous Treatment

At Me Clinic, we understand that concerns about your veins — whether they affect how you feel, how you look, or both — can have a real impact on your daily life and confidence. With over 35 years of experience caring for patients across a wide range of medical and cosmetic concerns, our team is here to help you navigate your venous health with expertise, compassion, and honesty. Our vascular and venous treatments are grounded in evidence-based medicine and delivered with genuine care, offering personalised treatment pathways designed to achieve effective, lasting results.

## Understanding vascular & venous conditions

Vascular and venous conditions are among the most common medical concerns affecting adults, and you're certainly not alone if you're dealing with one. The venous system plays a vital role in returning blood from the body's tissues back to the heart, and when this system doesn't function properly, a range of conditions can develop — from cosmetically bothersome spider veins through to more clinically significant varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency, each deserving thoughtful, individualised attention.

### What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that most commonly appear in the legs and feet. They develop when the valves within the veins weaken or become damaged, causing blood to pool rather than flow efficiently back toward the heart. This pooling increases pressure within the vein, causing it to bulge and become visible beneath the skin.

Varicose veins can present as:

- Bulging, rope-like veins visible beneath the skin
- Veins that appear blue, purple, or dark red
- Aching, heaviness, or discomfort in the legs, particularly after prolonged standing or sitting
- Swelling around the ankles and lower legs
- Skin changes such as discolouration, dryness, or itching near affected veins
- In more advanced cases, skin ulceration near the ankle

While varicose veins are often considered a cosmetic concern, they can also signal underlying venous insufficiency and may worsen over time without appropriate treatment. Early assessment can make a meaningful difference to your long-term venous health — so it's worth not dismissing these signs.

### What are spider veins?

Spider veins, medically known as telangiectasias, are small, dilated blood vessels that appear close to the surface of the skin. They're typically red, blue, or purple and often form web-like or branching patterns. Spider veins most commonly appear on the legs and face.

Unlike varicose veins, spider veins are flat and don't bulge above the skin's surface. While they're usually not painful, some people experience mild discomfort or a burning sensation. Many people seek treatment for spider veins primarily for cosmetic reasons, and that's a completely valid motivation — how you feel in your own skin matters.

### Chronic venous insufficiency

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a condition where the veins in the legs can't pump enough blood back to the heart. Blood pools in the lower extremities, leading to swelling, skin changes, and in severe cases, venous ulcers. CVI is often associated with varicose veins and is more common in people who spend long periods standing or sitting, those carrying excess weight, and those with a family history of venous disease.

Symptoms of CVI may include:

- Persistent swelling in the legs and ankles
- Aching or heaviness in the legs
- Skin that appears leathery, discoloured, or inflamed
- Itching or tingling sensations
- Open sores or ulcers near the ankles that are slow to heal

Early diagnosis and treatment of CVI genuinely matter. Left unaddressed, this condition can progress — but with the right care, symptoms can be managed effectively and quality of life significantly improved.

## Who is at risk?

Several factors can increase the risk of developing vascular and venous conditions. Understanding these can help identify who may benefit from early assessment.

**Age:** Risk increases with age as vein walls and valves naturally weaken over time.

**Sex:** Venous conditions are more prevalent in women, partly due to hormonal influences during pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause that affect vein wall tone.

**Pregnancy:** Pregnancy increases blood volume and places additional pressure on the veins in the legs. Hormonal changes also relax vein walls, increasing the likelihood of varicose veins developing.

**Family history:** A strong genetic component exists in venous disease. Having a parent or sibling with varicose veins significantly raises your own risk.

**Occupation:** Jobs requiring prolonged standing or sitting — nursing, teaching, retail work, office roles — increase the risk of venous pooling and varicose vein development.

**Body weight:** Excess weight places increased pressure on the venous system, particularly in the lower limbs.

**Previous blood clots or vein injuries:** A history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or other vein injuries can damage valves and predispose individuals to venous insufficiency.

**Sedentary lifestyle:** Regular physical activity supports venous return; inactivity can contribute to poor circulation and venous pooling.

If you recognise yourself in one or more of these risk factors, a professional assessment is a worthwhile step — not to cause alarm, but to give you clarity and peace of mind.

## Diagnosis of venous conditions

Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective venous treatment, and at Me Clinic, we take this step seriously. The diagnostic process begins with a thorough clinical assessment, including a detailed medical history and physical examination. We take the time to listen to your concerns, understand your symptoms, and ensure you feel heard before we proceed with any recommendations.

### Duplex ultrasound

The gold standard for diagnosing venous conditions is duplex ultrasound — a non-invasive imaging technique that combines traditional ultrasound with Doppler technology. This allows our clinicians to visualise vein structure and assess blood flow in real time, providing a detailed and accurate picture of your venous health.

Duplex ultrasound can identify:

- The presence and extent of venous reflux (backward blood flow due to valve failure)
- Incompetent perforator veins connecting the superficial and deep venous systems
- Deep vein thrombosis or previous clot formation
- The precise location and size of varicose veins and their feeding vessels

This information is essential for planning the most appropriate and targeted treatment approach — one tailored specifically to you, not a generic protocol.

### Clinical classification

Venous conditions are often classified using the CEAP system — a standardised clinical, aetiological, anatomical, and pathophysiological classification that helps clinicians communicate severity and guide treatment decisions. CEAP classes range from C0 (no visible signs of venous disease) through to C6 (active venous ulceration). Understanding where your condition sits within this framework helps us give you advice that's genuinely relevant to your situation.

## Treatment options

At Me Clinic, we provide a range of evidence-based vascular and venous treatment options, each tailored to your individual presentation, symptoms, and goals. We're transparent about what each treatment involves, what you can realistically expect, and how we arrive at our recommendations — because informed patients make confident decisions. Treatment selection is always guided by the type and severity of the venous condition, your overall health, and your personal preferences.

### Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is one of the most widely used and effective treatments for spider veins and smaller varicose veins, and our experienced clinicians have been delivering it with care and precision for many years. The procedure involves injecting a sclerosant solution directly into the affected vein. This solution irritates the inner lining of the vein wall, causing it to swell, stick together, and eventually be reabsorbed by the body.

Over several weeks following treatment, the treated vein fades and gradually disappears. Most patients require a series of sessions to achieve their best results, with the number depending on the extent and location of the veins being treated. We'll always set realistic expectations with you from the outset.

**Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy (UGS)**

For larger varicose veins or those not visible on the surface, ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy allows our treating clinician to accurately target veins using real-time ultrasound imaging. This increases the precision and effectiveness of treatment whilst minimising the risk of complications.

**Foam sclerotherapy**

Foam sclerotherapy involves mixing the sclerosant with air or gas to create a foam consistency. This foam displaces blood more effectively within the vein, increasing contact between the sclerosant and the vein wall. It's particularly useful for treating larger veins and those with significant reflux.

### Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA)

Endovenous laser ablation, also known as endovenous laser treatment (EVLT), is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat larger varicose veins — particularly those arising from the great saphenous vein or small saphenous vein. It's a well-established treatment that our team is experienced in delivering.

During the procedure, a thin laser fibre is inserted into the affected vein under ultrasound guidance. Laser energy is delivered along the length of the vein, generating heat that causes the vein wall to collapse and seal shut. The treated vein is then absorbed by the body over time, and blood is naturally rerouted through healthier veins.

EVLA is performed under local anaesthetic and is associated with:

- Minimal downtime — most patients return to normal activities within one to two days
- High success rates with low recurrence
- Reduced risk of complications compared to traditional surgical stripping
- Minimal scarring, as the procedure requires only a small entry point

### Radiofrequency ablation (RFA)

Radiofrequency ablation works on the same principle as EVLA but uses radiofrequency energy rather than laser energy to heat and close the affected vein. A catheter is inserted into the vein under ultrasound guidance, and controlled radiofrequency energy is delivered to the vein wall, causing it to contract and seal.

RFA is well tolerated and offers comparable outcomes to EVLA, with some patients reporting less post-procedural bruising and discomfort. We'll discuss which approach suits your individual circumstances during your consultation.

### VenaSeal™ closure system

The VenaSeal™ closure system is a non-thermal treatment option for varicose veins that we're pleased to offer as part of our commitment to current, evidence-supported approaches. Rather than using heat to close the vein, this system delivers a small amount of medical-grade cyanoacrylate adhesive directly into the vein via a catheter. The adhesive seals the vein walls together, and the vein is gradually reabsorbed by the body.

Key advantages of the VenaSeal™ system include:

- No requirement for tumescent local anaesthesia along the length of the vein
- Minimal bruising and discomfort post-procedure
- No need for compression stockings immediately after treatment in most cases
- Immediate return to normal activities for most patients

### Ambulatory phlebectomy

Ambulatory phlebectomy is a minor surgical procedure used to remove surface varicose veins through very small skin incisions. It's typically performed under local anaesthetic in an outpatient setting, and our team takes great care to ensure your comfort throughout.

Small hooks are used to gently remove segments of the varicose vein through tiny incisions that generally don't require stitches and leave minimal scarring. Ambulatory phlebectomy is often performed alongside EVLA or RFA to address residual surface veins, forming part of a comprehensive, personalised treatment plan.

### Compression therapy

Compression stockings are a non-invasive and effective first-line management strategy for venous conditions — and sometimes the most appropriate starting point is also the simplest. By applying graduated pressure to the leg, greatest at the ankle and decreasing towards the knee, compression stockings help support venous return, reduce swelling, and relieve symptoms such as aching and heaviness.

Compression therapy is commonly recommended:

- As an initial conservative management approach
- To manage symptoms in patients who aren't suitable for or don't wish to undergo procedural treatment
- Following procedural treatments to support recovery and improve outcomes
- During pregnancy to prevent the worsening of venous symptoms

Medical-grade compression stockings are available in various compression levels and styles, and our team will guide you through selecting the appropriate class for your clinical needs.

## What to expect during treatment

Understanding what lies ahead can make a real difference to how you feel approaching treatment. At Me Clinic, a positive experience begins well before you step into the treatment room — it starts with clear, honest communication at every stage of your care.

### Before treatment

Prior to any treatment, patients undergo a comprehensive consultation and assessment, including a review of medical history, a physical examination, and in most cases, a duplex ultrasound assessment. This allows our treating clinician to develop a personalised treatment plan that reflects your unique needs and goals.

Patients may be advised to:

- Wear or bring compression stockings to the appointment
- Avoid applying moisturiser or fake tan to the legs before treatment
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the treatment area
- Arrange transport home if sedation is anticipated

We're always happy to answer any questions at this stage — no question is too small, and we want you to feel genuinely prepared.

### During treatment

The experience during treatment will vary depending on the procedure. Sclerotherapy is typically well tolerated and often completed within 30 to 60 minutes. Procedures such as EVLA and RFA involve local anaesthetic, which may cause some initial discomfort, but the procedure itself is generally comfortable once anaesthesia has taken effect.

You're encouraged to communicate with your clinician throughout if you experience any discomfort. Your comfort matters, and we'll always take the time to respond to your needs.

### After treatment

Recovery following vascular and venous treatment is generally straightforward, and most patients are pleasantly surprised by how manageable the process is. Most people can resume light activities the same day or within one to two days of treatment. Walking is actively encouraged following most procedures to support circulation and recovery.

Post-treatment care instructions may include:

- Wearing compression stockings for a prescribed period
- Avoiding prolonged standing or sitting in the days immediately following treatment
- Refraining from strenuous exercise, hot baths, and sun exposure for a specified period
- Attending follow-up appointments to monitor treatment progress

Temporary side effects such as bruising, tenderness, and skin discolouration over treated veins are common and typically resolve within a few weeks. We'll always be upfront about what to expect so nothing comes as a surprise.

## Results and outcomes

The results of vascular and venous treatment are generally excellent, with high rates of patient satisfaction. Most patients experience meaningful improvement in both the appearance of their veins and associated symptoms — reduced aching, heaviness, and swelling. That said, we always set realistic expectations, because honesty is the foundation of trust.

Treatment effectively addresses existing varicose or spider veins, but it doesn't prevent new veins from developing in the future. Ongoing preventive measures — regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, wearing compression stockings when appropriate — can help reduce this risk, and our team will discuss these strategies with you as part of your broader care plan.

Follow-up duplex ultrasound assessments are typically performed after treatment to confirm successful closure of treated veins and identify any areas that may benefit from additional attention. We don't simply treat and discharge — we remain invested in your ongoing wellbeing.

## Frequently asked questions

**What are varicose veins?**
Enlarged, twisted veins caused by weakened or damaged valves.

**Do varicose veins bulge above the skin?**
Yes.

**Where do varicose veins most commonly appear?**
Legs and feet.

**What causes varicose veins?**
Blood pooling due to weakened or damaged vein valves.

**What colours can varicose veins appear?**
Blue, purple, or dark red.

**Can varicose veins cause pain?**
Yes, they can cause aching and heaviness.

**Can varicose veins cause swelling?**
Yes, around the ankles and lower legs.

**Can varicose veins cause skin changes?**
Yes, including discolouration, dryness, and itching.

**Can varicose veins lead to ulcers?**
Yes, in advanced cases near the ankle.

**Are varicose veins only a cosmetic concern?**
No, they can indicate underlying venous insufficiency.

**What are spider veins?**
Small, dilated blood vessels near the skin surface.

**What is the medical term for spider veins?**
Telangiectasias.

**Do spider veins bulge above the skin?**
No, they are generally flat.

**What colours do spider veins appear?**
Red, blue, or purple.

**Where do spider veins most commonly appear?**
Legs and face.

**Are spider veins usually painful?**
No, though mild discomfort or burning can occur.

**Is treating spider veins for cosmetic reasons valid?**
Yes.

**What is chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)?**
A condition where leg veins cannot pump enough blood to the heart.

**Does CVI cause swelling?**
Yes, persistent swelling in legs and ankles.

**Can CVI cause skin ulcers?**
Yes, open sores near the ankles that are slow to heal.

**Is CVI associated with varicose veins?**
Yes.

**Does age increase varicose vein risk?**
Yes, vein walls and valves weaken with age.

**Are women more at risk of venous conditions than men?**
Yes.

**Does pregnancy increase varicose vein risk?**
Yes.

**Why does pregnancy increase varicose vein risk?**
It increases blood volume and relaxes vein walls.

**Does family history affect varicose vein risk?**
Yes, a strong genetic component exists.

**Does occupation affect varicose vein risk?**
Yes, prolonged standing or sitting increases risk.

**Does excess weight increase venous disease risk?**
Yes, it adds pressure to the venous system.

**Does a history of DVT increase venous disease risk?**
Yes, it can damage valves.

**Does a sedentary lifestyle increase venous disease risk?**
Yes.

**What is the gold standard diagnostic test for venous conditions?**
Duplex ultrasound.

**Is duplex ultrasound non-invasive?**
Yes.

**What does duplex ultrasound combine?**
Traditional ultrasound with Doppler technology.

**Can duplex ultrasound detect DVT?**
Yes.

**What is the CEAP classification system?**
A standardised system for classifying venous condition severity.

**What does CEAP C0 indicate?**
No visible signs of venous disease.

**What does CEAP C6 indicate?**
Active venous ulceration.

**What is sclerotherapy?**
Injection of a sclerosant solution into the affected vein.

**What does sclerotherapy treat?**
Spider veins and smaller varicose veins.

**How does sclerotherapy work?**
It irritates the vein wall, causing it to seal and be reabsorbed.

**How long does sclerotherapy take to show results?**
Several weeks for the vein to fade.

**How many sclerotherapy sessions are typically needed?**
Two to four sessions.

**What is ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy (UGS)?**
Sclerotherapy performed using real-time ultrasound imaging.

**What does UGS treat?**
Larger or non-surface-visible varicose veins.

**What is foam sclerotherapy?**
Sclerosant mixed with air or gas to create a foam.

**Why is foam sclerotherapy used?**
It displaces blood more effectively for better vein wall contact.

**What is endovenous laser ablation (EVLA)?**
A minimally invasive laser treatment for larger varicose veins.

**What anaesthetic is used for EVLA?**
Local anaesthetic.

**What is the typical downtime after EVLA?**
One to two days.

**Does EVLA leave significant scarring?**
No, only a small entry point is required.

**What is radiofrequency ablation (RFA)?**
A treatment using radiofrequency energy to close varicose veins.

**How does RFA differ from EVLA?**
It uses radiofrequency energy instead of laser energy.

**Does RFA cause less bruising than EVLA?**
Some patients find RFA associated with less bruising.

**What is the VenaSeal™ closure system?**
A non-thermal treatment using medical-grade adhesive to close veins.

**What adhesive does VenaSeal™ use?**
Cyanoacrylate glue.

**Does VenaSeal™ require tumescent local anaesthesia?**
No.

**Do most patients need compression stockings immediately after VenaSeal™?**
No.

**What is ambulatory phlebectomy?**
A minor surgical procedure to remove surface varicose veins.

**Is ambulatory phlebectomy performed under general anaesthetic?**
No, local anaesthetic is used.

**Do ambulatory phlebectomy incisions require stitches?**
Generally no.

**Is ambulatory phlebectomy often combined with other treatments?**
Yes, such as EVLA or RFA.

**What is compression therapy?**
Graduated pressure stockings applied to support venous return.

**Does compression therapy reduce leg swelling?**
Yes.

**Is compression therapy recommended during pregnancy?**
Yes.

**Should patients walk after most venous procedures?**
Yes, walking is actively encouraged.

**What temporary side effects can occur after treatment?**
Bruising, tenderness, and skin discolouration.

**How long do post-treatment side effects typically last?**
A few weeks.

**Do treated veins return after treatment?**
No, treated veins do not return.

**Can new veins develop after treatment?**
Yes, due to ongoing risk factors.

**Does treatment prevent all future vein development?**
No.

**Is follow-up duplex ultrasound performed after treatment?**
Yes.

**How long has Me Clinic been treating patients?**
Over 35 years.

**Is a consultation required before treatment at Me Clinic?**
Yes.

**Does the initial assessment include duplex ultrasound?**
Yes, in most cases.

**Should patients avoid moisturiser before treatment?**
Yes.

**Should patients wear loose clothing to their appointment?**
Yes.

**Can Medicare cover venous treatments?**
Yes, in some cases with clinical indication.

**Can private health insurance cover venous treatments?**
Yes, depending on the policy and clinical indication.

**Is treatment suitable for most adults with varicose veins?**
Yes.

**What determines treatment suitability?**
Overall health, medications, and vein characteristics.

**Is vascular and venous treatment painful?**
Most patients find these treatments well tolerated, and we take every measure to ensure your comfort throughout. Sclerotherapy involves a series of small injections that may cause mild stinging. Procedures such as EVLA and RFA are performed under local anaesthetic, which minimises discomfort during the procedure. Some post-procedural tenderness and bruising is common but generally manageable, and our team will provide clear guidance on caring for yourself in the days that follow.

**How many treatment sessions will I need?**
This varies depending on the type, extent, and severity of the venous condition being treated. Spider veins and small varicose veins may require two to four sclerotherapy sessions, whilst a single session of EVLA or RFA is often sufficient to treat the underlying refluxing vein. Your treating clinician at Me Clinic will provide a personalised treatment plan following your initial assessment, tailored to your specific situation.

**Will my varicose veins come back after treatment?**
Treated veins don't return; however, new veins can develop over time due to ongoing risk factors such as genetics, hormonal changes, or occupation. Treatment is highly effective, but it's not a permanent shield against all future venous changes. Regular follow-up and preventive measures can help manage this risk, and we'll work with you to put the right strategies in place.

**Is treatment covered by Medicare or private health insurance?**
In some cases, vascular and venous treatments may attract a Medicare rebate or be covered under private health insurance, particularly where there is a clinical indication such as significant symptoms or chronic venous insufficiency. Check with Me Clinic and your insurer prior to treatment to understand your entitlements. Our team is happy to help you navigate this process.

**Am I suitable for treatment?**
Most adults with varicose veins or spider veins are suitable for treatment. Suitability is assessed carefully during the initial consultation and duplex ultrasound assessment, with factors such as overall health, medication use, and the specific characteristics of the venous condition all taken into account. We'll always be honest with you about what is and isn't appropriate for your situation — your safety and wellbeing come first.

## Taking the next step

If you're experiencing symptoms related to varicose veins, spider veins, or venous insufficiency — or if you're simply concerned about the appearance of your veins and wondering what your options might be — a professional assessment is a worthwhile step. Early intervention can prevent the progression of venous disease whilst significantly improving your quality of life.

A consultation at Me Clinic is an opportunity to feel genuinely heard, gain a clear understanding of your venous health, and receive honest advice from a team that cares about your wellbeing. We'll provide an accurate diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan that reflects your individual needs, goals, and circumstances.

We're here to help, and we look forward to supporting you towards better venous health.

---

> **Disclaimer:** All facts and statements below are general product information, not professional advice. Consult relevant experts for specific guidance.

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### General product claims

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- Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins caused by weakened or damaged valves, most commonly appearing in the legs and feet
- Varicose veins can appear blue, purple, or dark red and may bulge above the skin surface
- Varicose veins can cause aching, heaviness, swelling around the ankles and lower legs, skin discolouration, dryness, itching, and in advanced cases, ulceration near the ankle
- Varicose veins can indicate underlying venous insufficiency
- Spider veins (telangiectasias) are small, dilated blood vessels near the skin surface; generally flat; appearing red, blue, or purple; most commonly on the legs and face
- Spider veins are usually not painful, though mild discomfort or burning can occur
- Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) involves leg veins being unable to return sufficient blood to the heart, causing swelling, skin changes, and potentially venous ulcers
- Risk factors for venous conditions include age, female sex, pregnancy, family history, prolonged standing or sitting, excess weight, history of DVT, and sedentary lifestyle
- Duplex ultrasound is the gold standard diagnostic test for venous conditions, combining traditional ultrasound with Doppler technology
- The CEAP classification system ranges from C0 (no visible signs) to C6 (active venous ulceration)
- Sclerotherapy treats spider veins and smaller varicose veins via injection of a sclerosant solution; results appear over several weeks; typically two to four sessions required
- Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy (UGS) targets larger or non-surface-visible veins using real-time ultrasound imaging
- Foam sclerotherapy uses sclerosant mixed with air or gas to improve vein wall contact
- Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) is performed under local anaesthetic with typical downtime of one to two days and minimal scarring
- Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) uses radiofrequency energy to close veins; some patients report less bruising compared to EVLA
- VenaSeal™ uses cyanoacrylate glue; does not require tumescent local anaesthesia; most patients do not require compression stockings immediately post-procedure
- Ambulatory phlebectomy is performed under local anaesthetic; incisions generally do not require stitches; often combined with EVLA or RFA
- Compression therapy applies graduated pressure to support venous return and reduce swelling; recommended during pregnancy and post-procedure
- Walking is actively encouraged following most venous procedures
- Common temporary post-treatment side effects include bruising, tenderness, and skin discolouration, typically resolving within a few weeks
- Treated veins do not return; however, new veins can develop due to ongoing risk factors
- Follow-up duplex ultrasound is performed after treatment to confirm successful vein closure
- Me Clinic states over 35 years of experience treating patients
- A consultation including duplex ultrasound assessment is required prior to treatment
- Medicare rebates or private health insurance coverage may apply where clinical indication exists, subject to individual policy and insurer confirmation

## Directory Entries

### [Varicose Veins & Spider Veins Treatment - Melbourne](https://directory.meclinic.com.au/healthcare-medical-services/vascular-venous-treatment/varicose-veins-spider-veins-treatment-melbourne.html)