Last updated on December 10, 2025
Undergoing treatment for varicose veins is often a significant turning point for people who have lived with ongoing leg pain, swelling, fatigue, or visible bulging veins. Whether the primary concern is discomfort, circulation, or appearance, successful treatment can greatly improve both physical comfort and confidence.
One of the most common questions patients ask after treatment, however, is whether varicose vein recurrence is possible over the long term. It is natural to wonder whether treated veins can return, why new veins may develop and what can be done to prevent varicose veins returning in the future.
At Vein Doctors Sydney, patients receive care that focuses not only on effective treatment but also on long-term vein health planning to support stable, lasting outcomes.
Do Varicose Veins Come Back After Treatment?
When a varicose vein is treated properly, it is permanently closed or removed and does not reopen once the vein has fully sealed. This means that the same vein that has been treated will not return.
Over time, however, it is possible for new varicose veins to develop in other areas of the legs. This is often what people are referring to when they ask whether varicose veins come back after treatment. In most cases, this reflects the natural progression of underlying vein weakness rather than a failure of the original procedure.
Varicose veins are commonly linked to inherited valve dysfunction within the venous system. While treatment resolves the visible problem veins, it does not completely eliminate the body’s tendency to form new abnormal veins in the future. This is why long-term vein monitoring, healthy lifestyle habits and early intervention for new symptoms play an important role in maintaining results over time.
Varicose veins can recur because the underlying factors that contribute to vein disease remain active.
Why Varicose Veins Can Recur
Varicose vein recurrence most commonly occurs because the underlying factors that contribute to vein disease remain active. Genetics play a major role. If varicose veins run in your family, your vein walls and valves may naturally be weaker and more prone to future problems.
Hormonal changes also affect vein health. Pregnancy, menopause and hormone-based medications can increase pressure inside the veins and reduce valve efficiency. Lifestyle factors such as prolonged sitting or standing, limited daily movement, excess body weight and reduced muscle tone in the legs all contribute to higher venous pressure.
Over time, this ongoing pressure may cause new veins to enlarge and become visible even after earlier veins have been successfully treated.
How Long Do Varicose Vein Treatment Results Last?
For most patients, long-term varicose vein treatment outcomes are very positive. Treated veins typically remain closed permanently and do not reappear. Many people enjoy years of symptom relief following successful therapy.
The durability of results depends on several important factors:
Accurate diagnosis of underlying reflux
Treating only surface veins without addressing deeper faulty valves can allow pressure to continue building.
Consistent use of compression stockings
Wearing compression stockings after treatment supports healing and reduces the risk of early recurrence.
Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight
Maintaining good leg circulation through regular walking and healthy weight management further stabilises results.
When performed by a qualified practitioner and combined with appropriate follow-up care, these treatments have an established safety profile and a high rate of long-term success.
There are a variety of treatment options for varicose veins, and the right treatment is guided by several factors, such as vein size and severity of symptoms.
Treatment Options for Varicose Veins
Modern varicose vein treatment focuses on closing or removing faulty veins while preserving healthy circulation. At Vein Doctors Sydney, treatment selection is guided by detailed ultrasound findings, vein size and the severity of symptoms.
Sclerotherapy is commonly used for smaller surface varicose veins. A specialised solution is injected directly into the vein, causing it to collapse and gradually fade as the body naturally absorbs it over time.
Laser Vein Treatment (Endovenous Laser Ablation)
Laser vein treatment is used for deeper refluxing veins. A fine fibre is inserted into the vein, and heat energy is applied internally to seal it closed. This treats the underlying source of abnormal blood flow rather than just the visible surface veins.
Medical glue treatment involves injecting a specialised adhesive into the faulty vein to seal it shut without the use of heat. The treated vein is then safely rerouted while healthy circulation is maintained.
Ambulatory phlebectomy removes bulging surface vein branches through tiny skin incisions under local anaesthetic. It is performed as a same-day outpatient procedure and is often used alongside other treatments for optimal cosmetic and symptom improvement.
Compression stockings remain an important part of both symptom relief and long-term recurrence prevention. They support circulation, reduce swelling and assist with vein healing after treatment.
Preventing Varicose Veins Returning
While it is not always possible to completely prevent new varicose veins from forming, the risk can be significantly reduced with consistent long-term habits.
Regular Physical Activity
Staying active strengthens the calf muscles, which act as a natural pump to move blood upward toward the heart. Walking, swimming and low-impact exercise all help reduce venous pressure and improve circulation.
Avoiding Prolonged Immobility
Long periods of sitting or standing allow pressure to build in the lower legs. Taking regular movement breaks helps prevent blood from pooling in the veins.
Maintaining a Healthy Body Weight
Excess body weight increases strain on the venous system. Keeping weight within a healthy range reduces pressure on the legs and supports long-term circulation.
Leg Elevation During Rest
Raising the legs above heart level when resting assists venous drainage and reduces swelling after long days on your feet.
Compression Stockings
Compression stockings provide external support to improve circulation. They are especially helpful for people who stand for long hours, travel frequently, or have a family history of vein disease.
Ongoing Vein Monitoring
Long-term success is also supported by periodic review with a vein specialist, particularly if early symptoms begin to return. Early detection allows for timely management before larger veins develop again.
How to Book an Appointment
At Vein Doctors Sydney, we are committed to providing personalised and compassionate care for patients seeking treatment for varicose veins. For more information on our services or to schedule a consultation at our clinic, please contact our friendly staff by either calling us on (02) 9023 9970, via our online form or by sending us an email.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can varicose veins return after treatment?
Once a varicose vein has been properly treated, it is permanently closed or removed and will not reopen. However, new varicose veins may develop in other areas over time due to factors such as genetics, lifestyle influences, ageing, or hormonal changes.
How long do results from treatment last?
Varicose vein treatment results are typically long-lasting. Many patients enjoy years of symptom relief, particularly when underlying vein reflux has been accurately identified and treated at the time of the initial procedure.
Is recurrence a sign that treatment failed?
In most cases, recurrence does not indicate treatment failure. Varicose vein disease is a chronic condition, and new veins can form over time even after successful treatment of the original veins.
Does pregnancy increase the risk of recurrence?
Yes, pregnancy increases blood volume and places added pressure on the leg veins. These changes can raise the likelihood of new varicose veins developing, even in women who have previously undergone treatment.
This information is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment. It is aimed at presenting a perspective only and is not a substitute for a prescription. Anyone experiencing a medical condition should consult their doctor.
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