The Vein Institute

Frequently Asked Questions

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About The Vein Institute

What is The Vein Institutes philosophy?

Dr Zil Yassine founded The Vein Institute to redefine varicose vein care throughout Australia. Patients and their needs are at the heart of our business and everything we do.

Every day, we strive to provide patients with the best varicose veins treatment possible. What does that mean to us? It means high success rates, minimal discomfort, fast recovery, no hospital stays, happy and healthy patients.

Where are you located?

We currently have 4 clinics:

Sydney CBD – 227 Elizabeth Street, Sydney, NSW 2000

Parramatta – George Street Gatehouse, O’Connell St NSW 2150

Canberra – 1 Elouera St, Unit 10, Braddon ACT 2612

Melbourne – Level 1, Suite 126 at Chelsea House 55 Flemington Road, North Melbourne VIC 3051

How can I contact you?

You can call our clinic on 13 VEINS (that’s 13 83467) to speak to a member of our team. Alternatively, you can fill out a form to make an enquiry.

Can you perform my treatment in a different city?

We prefer that you continue treatment in the same clinic you started with. If you are relocating to a different city, please call our office and we will discuss your options.

Are your team all qualified doctors?

All our doctors are fully qualified and have completed their degrees at top universities. They have all gone on to complete further specialisations in interventional radiology, phlebology, or vascular health. Usually, a nurse and a sonographer will assist with the procedure. If you want to learn more about The Vein Institute you can do so here: about us

Does The Vein Institute offer urgent care?

Our doctors are on hand throughout your treatment plan to assist with any questions you may have. If you require urgent care, please contact your local GP or hospital.

How is The Vein Institute different?

The Vein Institute believes in patient-first care and getting you the best results possible. We offer patients treatment plans so that there are no hidden costs and guaranteed results.

Our team of highly trained doctors uses the highest quality equipment to ensure the best results with minimal stress and discomfort for patients. We are located in central locations in major cities to offer the most convenient services to patients.

Is there parking available near your clinics?

We are located close to train stations in most of our locations or bus routes. Alternatively, there is plenty of on-street parking and paid parking options next to our clinics.

Do I have to make an appointment, or can I just walk in?

The Vein Institute works on an appointment basis. Please call us on 13 VEINS (13 83467) and we would be happy to book you in.

Conditions

What conditions do you treat?

At The Vein Institute, we focus on what we are good at, and that is varicose veins. We do not treat spider veins on their own. However, if you have spider veins as a result of varicose veins, we will be able to treat them.

If you are not sure if you have varicose veins or spider veins, try our self assessment tool. You can also email photos of the affected area to [email protected] for our doctors to assess.

Do you treat spider veins?

We don’t exclusively treat spider veins, we specialise in the medical treatment of varicose veins. However, if you have any pain or swelling associated with your spider veins then there could be an underlying varicose vein, and we would recommend you speak with your doctor.

If you are not sure if you have varicose veins you can try our vein self assessment tool.

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, swollen, and twisting veins. They can appear protruding from the skin or may not be visible to the naked eye. They form when your vein valves aren’t functioning properly. Additionally, they often come with pain, itching, and swelling.

What causes varicose veins?

While there is no definitive answer, a number of risk factors can increase your chances of getting varicose veins. These include genetics, obesity, taking the contraceptive pill, pregnancy, and working in professions where you sit or stand for long periods of time.

Learn more about varicose vein causes.

 

Where do varicose veins appear?

Varicose veins usually appear on your legs. They are often found on your thighs, the backs and fronts of your calves, or even deep inside your legs (in which case you may not be able to see them). However, they can appear pretty much anywhere there are veins. Other affected areas include the arms, pelvis, torso, and groin.

Can varicose veins appear in one leg only?

Yes, this is very common. It is not exactly clear why varicose veins can appear in only one leg. 

What are the symptoms of varicose veins?

Symptoms of varicose veins include:

  • Aching or heaviness in your legs
  • Burning, throbbing, or swelling in lower legs
  • Worsening pain from sitting or standing for long periods
  • Itching around your veins

Can varicose veins come back after treatment?

Unfortunately, you can’t permanently cure varicose veins, you can only treat them. In general, the veins we treat are gone for good. Minimally invasive treatments are highly effective, with EVLA and RFA both having a 98% success rate.

However, if you have a genetic tendency to develop varicose veins, we cannot guarantee that a separate vein won’t appear over time. 

On the off chance that the branch reopens during your treatment plan with us, we will re-laser it at no additional cost to you. 

Do I need these veins?

No, you no longer need these veins. Varicose veins are veins that have become incompetent and are now holding back blood instead of pumping it around the body for proper circulation.

Closing these dysfunctional varicose veins will allow the body to reroute blood flow to healthy, functional veins. Hence, removing the vein will improve your overall circulation.

Are varicose veins serious?

Varicose veins are not considered a serious medical condition. However, they can be a sign of an underlying condition or become a serious issue if left untreated.

As varicose veins are a circulatory disorder, left untreated, your circulation may become worse, leading to changes to the colours and textures of your skin. There are increased risks of developing Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVTs) and venous ulcers.

 

How can I stop the formation of Varicose Veins?

There are several things you can do to reduce your risk of developing varicose veins. Unfortunately, there is no way to completely prevent the condition, as it typically develops due to genetics.

  • Avoid sitting or standing for long periods.
  • Exercise frequently – we recommend thirty minutes of walking a day and a couple of additional exercise sessions per week. Swimming and yoga are particularly good options as they boost blood flow and activate the muscles without putting much strain on the veins.
  • Wear compression stockings.
  • Mind your weight.

Can varicose veins cause heart problems?

Heart disease and varicose veins are not related. Varicose veins are primarily caused by genetic predisposition, sitting or standing for long periods, and pregnancy. Heart disease is caused by a genetic predisposition to heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Does crossing your legs cause varicose veins?

There is no evidence that crossing your legs for long periods causes varicose veins. Read more about other varicose vein myths.

 

Are varicose veins only a problem for older women?

Varicose veins can affect people of any age or gender. Whilst there is no definitive cause for varicose veins, there are several things that could increase an individual’s chances of getting the condition.

These include genetics, professions where you sit or stand for long periods, being overweight, and taking the contraceptive pill. You can learn more about varicose vein causes.

Will my diet affect my varicose veins?

If you already have varicose veins, changing your diet will not fix the faulty valves. However, a vein-friendly diet can improve overall vein health. Current research recommends eating plenty of: 

  • Fibre
  • Antioxidants
  • Vitamins C, D, and E

Additionally, you should avoid eating excess salt and trans fats. These make you retain water and may even cause plaque to build up in the arteries.

Varicose Vein Questions on Treatments

What treatments are there for varicose veins?

There are several different treatments available for varicose veins. These include Endovenous Laser Ablation, Radiofrequency Ablation, Sclerotherapy and ClariVein. At The Vein Institute, our doctors will recommend the appropriate treatment for each patient after an assessment and ultrasound scan at your consultation.

Are the treatments safe?

Our doctors are highly trained and experienced in treating varicose veins. New treatments, in general, are considered safer than surgery. However, as with any medical treatment, there is always a risk of complications. Fortunately, dangerous complications like DVT and nerve damage have a less than 1% chance of occurring.

Does treatment hurt?

It shouldn’t be painful. Patients usually describe the sensation as more of a discomfort than outright pain. Patients also say varicose vein treatment feels like a blood draw.

To ensure your comfort, we will inject a regional anaesthetic into the leg, so this is the only sensation you should feel. The treated leg may feel heavy, numb, and tight after laser treatment. These sensations are completely normal as the anaesthetic wears off and the area starts to heal.

 

Will I need to take time off work?

The Vein Institute is a walk-in walk-out clinic, and all our treatments are non-surgical. Hence, you generally won’t need to take much time off work. However, our doctor may advise taking 2-5 days off work if your profession requires a lot of standing or heavy lifting. 

What is the recovery plan?

  • Depending on your doctor’s advice, you may need to take 2-5 days off work.
  • You can drive after the procedure if you haven’t taken any medications to reduce anxiety. 
  • You shouldn’t do long-distance travel (5+ hours) for 4 weeks after your treatment.
  • We recommend that all patients wear compression wrap for 24 hours after their treatment. After, you should wear compression stockings for a few days to assist the healing process and reduce common side effects like aches and swelling.

If you feel discomfort following the treatment, your doctor may also recommend pain reliever medications.

 

Do I need to follow up after treatment?

All patients must have a review scan within four weeks of the laser procedure to ensure that the laser treatment successfully sealed the problem veins. Following the laser treatment, a few sessions of sclerotherapy injections may be required to treat the more superficial veins.

Do I need a GP referral?

All our doctors have GP qualifications, meaning you will not need a referral to get a Medicare rebate for the consultation or treatment.

Do I have to wear compression stockings?

Yes, we will apply a compression wrap to your treated leg, which you will need to wear for 24 hours. After, you can change over to the compression stockings for 5 days. These socks promote the best possible healing and outcomes. In some cases, like after sclerotherapy, you may not need to wear compression socks. Your doctor will advise one way or the other.

Do I need to prepare for the procedure?

If your procedure is scheduled for the morning, be sure to eat breakfast and take any normal medications. You should wear loose-fitting pants because your legs will be wrapped with elastic bandages after the procedure. Additionally, you should avoid shaving your legs the morning of the treatment.   

Is it possible to receive treatment on the same day as my consultation?

No, we do not perform the treatment on the same day as your initial consultation. At the consultation, your doctor will use an ultrasound to make an accurate assessment of your veins and discuss your different treatment options. We keep the consultation and treatments separate to give you time to consider.

Can you treat all my veins in one sitting?

Our doctors will treat deeper, larger veins first. If they find smaller varicose vein branches or spider veins attached to the treated vein, they will address these in follow-up treatments. This process ensures the best results and maximum comfort for patients. 

Can I travel throughout treatment?

We advise against undertaking long-haul travel (more than five hours) for a few weeks following treatments. It is important to discuss your travel plans with your treating doctor during your consultation.

 

Can I have a treatment close to a major operation?

It depends on the operation. But generally, if it’s a major operation, it’s best to wait until your surgery and recovery are complete before starting your vein treatment.

Can I take antibiotics during treatment?

You should not stop taking antibiotics until you’ve completed your entire course. It’s completely fine to take antibiotics during vein treatment, but you may need to delay treatment if you have an ongoing systemic infection to ensure your safety.

Is there anything I need to avoid while having treatment?

You should avoid:

  • Shaving your legs just prior to treatment
  • Really hot shower pre and post treatment
  • Laser hair removal for the duration of treatment and for a couple of months post treatment
  • Waxing for the  duration of treatment and for a couple of months post treatment
  • Overseas long haul travel for at least 3 weeks post treatment
  • Strenuous exercise for one week

Can I take the contraceptive pill during treatment?

Generally (but not always) your doctor will recommend that you stop taking the contraceptive pill for four weeks post laser treatment and sclerotherapy treatments, however, this will be determined based on a few factors which will be explained to you in your consultation. 

Can I take hormone replacement therapy during treatment?

Ideally you should stop taking hormone replacement therapy during treatment as it can slightly increase the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis / Pulmonary Embolism. However, if it is necessary to continue taking HRT, many patients have been safely treated with laser and sclerotherapy.

Can I see a Physiotherapist /Chiropractor/Osteopath for treatment whilst undergoing treatment for my veins?

Yes – There is no problem with having this treatment at the same time.

Do traditional remedies or vitamins work for varicose veins?

Remedies, supplements and vitamins on their own will not fix your varicose veins. However, they may help to reduce symptoms or their appearance. Read more about varicose vein natural remedies.

 

Is it best to do it in winter or summer?

This is a personal choice. Some patients like to schedule their treatment prior to an event. Though healing varies between patients, we recommend commencing treatment six months prior to any event for optimal results. The recommended compression stockings are lightweight and easily worn in summer or winter. Some people prefer to have them treated in winter to have the extra layer and because they are less likely to be wearing shorts.  

Can I go to the gym after treatment?

We recommend you abstain from rigorous activities like gym work, running, heavy lifting, aerobics etc for 10 days post laser and sclerotherapy to let veins heal – Gentle walking every day is advised! You can carry on with normal work or home duties as long as they are not overly strenuous.

 

Am I too young, or too old for treatment?

There are no age limits for varicose vein treatment, however if a patient is younger that 16 we would advise speaking to your pediatrician.

I was told I needed surgery, is there an alternative?

Modern varicose vein treatments have come a long way since vein stripping and other surgical procedures that required hospitalisation and lengthy downtime and recovery.

Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA), Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) and Foam Sclerotherapy injections are excellent alternatives for most patients. However, if your varicose veins are extensive or very complex, a procedure like phlebectomy may be the best option.

Varicose Vein Questions on Prices, Billing and Insurance

How much is treatment?

The cost of varicose vein treatment varies depending on the severity of your case. At your initial consultation, your doctor will assess your vein concerns and advise whether you require treatment. If you do, they will provide you with a tailored plan and a quote for treatment.

Most patients’ out-of-pocket cost is between $3,400 – $4,500 for the total treatment plan including laser, sclerotherapy, and compression stockings. The initial consultation fee is $290 and you will receive approximately $80.00 back from Medicare.

Read more about what is included in our treatment plans.

What is the cost of the consultation?

The consultation fee is $290. As all our doctors have GP qualifications, you will get an ~$80 Medicare rebate (as long as you’re a Medicare card holder).

Do you have payment plans?

We offer an in-house payment plan for 60 days or longer plans are available through Medipay. This will allow you to begin the procedure immediately, then pay over a period of time that suits you.

Is it covered by medicare?

Medicare does provide rebates for varicose vein consultations and treatments. However, you will need to pay a gap fee.

Is it covered by private insurance?

Unfortunately, private health insurers do not cover the treatment as we are a private clinic. Private Health Insurance will only cover in-hospital procedures.

Varicose Vein Questions on Pregnancy

Why does pregnancy cause or exacerbate varicose veins?

Pregnancy can cause or exacerbate varicose veins for a number of reasons. The higher levels of pregnancy hormones; estrogen and progesterone, can cause veins to dilate. Additionally, blood volume increases to supply your growing baby.

In addition, during pregnancy, the uterus can put pressure on the inferior vena cava, the main vein that carries blood to the heart from the lower extremities. Read more about varicose veins in pregnancy.

I am pregnant and have noticed my veins are getting worse. What should I do?

It is not unusual for pregnant people to feel their veins are getting worse. Pregnancy can also be a time when you first notice the appearance of varicose or spider veins. Hence, we recommend wearing medical grade compression stockings from the beginning of the pregnancy and for several weeks after birth.

Once you have finished breastfeeding, we suggest making an appointment with a vein specialist.

Do I need to wait until I have completed my family to have treatment?

No, you do not need to wait until you have completed your family to have treatment. 

Can varicose veins cause problems for the baby or during the birth?

Varicose veins should not cause a problem for the baby or during birth as they usually have a low level of blood flow through them. In some cases, vulvar varicose veins can lead to pelvic congestion syndrome.

Varicose Vein Questions: Treatment Types

What type of non-surgical treatment options are available?

Endovenous Ablation Therapy: Also known as endovenous laser ablation or radiofrequency ablation, these treatments are performed comfortably in our clinic with local anaesthetic. The treatments are minimally invasive methods to treat larger varicose veins. Additionally, specialists consider them to be gold standard treatments as they don’t require hospitalisation or general anaesthetic. Both of these procedures use heat to close the vein.

Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy: This treatment is non-surgical and leads to no visible scarring and virtually no downtime. We inject a specialised medication into the diseased veins to collapse the vein and allow the body to absorb it. The vein’s appearance usually improves over a few weeks and continues to improve for about three months.

ClariVein: ClariVein is a specialised catheter with a 360-degree tip that can inject sclerosant deeper into the problem vein. Hence, we can use the treatment on larger veins than traditional sclerotherapy allows.

VenaSeal Medical Super Glue: VenaSeal is a modern, non-surgical treatment that uses a medical adhesive to treat varicose veins. As the medical superglue sets within minutes, there is a faster healing process than is sometimes associated with other treatments.

What can I expect during varicose vein treatment?

Once you arrive at the clinic, one of our patient liaison managers will greet you. You are welcome to bring in a book, magazine or phone during treatment.

We’ll start the treatment itself with an ultrasound scan to assess if any changes to your veins occurred and to confirm the branches we need to treat.

Following that, we will clean your leg and inject a tiny amount of regional anaesthetic into the incision point. This will feel similar to getting a vaccination. Then, we will make a tiny incision for a catheter or laser fibre, or make a series of syringe injections. 

You should not feel any pain during this process, but you may experience some discomfort. After the procedure, you will need to wear compression stockings for 2-5 days and walk for 30 minutes a day.

Read more about what to expect.

What can I expect during the consultation?

At the initial consultation, the doctor will perform a visual examination of both of your legs, discuss your symptoms and concerns, and perform an ultrasound on both legs.  Then, the doctor will design a treatment plan suited to treat your venous disease and address your concerns.

Following that, one of our Patient Liaison Managers will discuss pricing and scheduling with you and help you book your treatment.

Why do I need an ultrasound scan?

We use an ultrasound scan to correctly diagnose varicose veins or other vascular disorders. While some varicose veins are easy to identify visually when they protrude through the skin, they are not always visible to the naked eye. Additionally, there may be hidden branches attached to a visible vein.

How do the treatments work?

Endovenous Laser Ablation uses laser energy to close the vein wall and seal the faulty vein. Once we seal the vein, your body will reroute blood flow to a healthy vein absorb the treated one. 

Radiofrequency ablation uses radiofrequency energy to close the vein wall and seal the faulty vein. The body will gradually reabsorb the faulty vein and reroute blood flow to nearby healthy ones. 

Sclerotherapy uses sclerosant that we inject directly into the vein. The solution irritates the lining of the blood vessel, making it collapse. As with ablation procedures, once we seal the vein, your body will absorb it and reroute blood flow.

ClariVein is a special catheter with a 360-degree rotating tip that delivers sclerosant deeper into the vein.

VenaSeal Medical superglue uses a small amount of vein glue to close the vein. We inject the glue through either a small catheter or syringe injections. Like with sclerotherapy, you usually won’t need compression socks.

 

What are the possible complications of the treatments?

All the treatments we offer are low-risk procedures. However, as with all medical procedures, there is a chance of complications.

Endovenous Laser Ablation / Radiofrequency Ablation:

  • Rare side effects include soreness or phlebitis which usually settles with Nurofen and medical grade compression stockings.
  • Very side effects include Deep Vein Thrombosis or Pulmonary Embolism. These only have a <1% chance of occurring. However, we advise keeping an eye out for symptoms like significant leg swelling or pain, chest pain, shortness of breath or tiredness. If you do feel these symptoms, please contact your GP or head to your nearest hospital ASAP.
  • Lastly, one extremely rare side effect is nerve damage. Here, you may experience a loss of sensation or pain.

Sclerotherapy:

  • One rare side effect you might experience is some soreness or inflammation after the procedure. However, this isn’t dangerous, and you can usually manage it with Ibuprofen.
  • Very rare side effects include changes to skin sensation, allergic reaction to the solution being used, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism.  If you experience significant leg swelling or pain, chest pain, shortness of breath or tiredness, please contact your GP or hospital.

VenaSeal Medical Superglue:

  • One rare side effect is feeling some soreness after the procedure. But, this usually settles after a week and with some help from Ibuprofen.
  • Very rare side effects include changes in skin sensation, an allergic reaction to cyanoacrylate, deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.  If you experience significant leg swelling or pain, chest pain, shortness of breath or tiredness, please contact your GP or hospital.

Why would you choose EVLA or RFA over cheaper alternatives?

Both Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) and Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) have extremely high success rates. Hence, specialists consider them the gold standard treatment for varicose veins. While Sclerotherapy and VenaSeal are a cheaper solution, they are not as effective as laser. Not to mention, they aren’t suitable for larger veins. To determine which treatment is best for you, we will do a duplex ultrasound scan.

What can you treat with VenaSeal Medical Superglue?

Specialists can treat straight veins between 4mm and 16mm with the Venaseal Medical Superglue procedure. They also use duplex ultrasound imaging to determine the suitability of the procedure. 

Are there different laser types?

There are many different laser types each with their own specific uses. We use the latest radial tip laser fibres. We use these as research and patient feeback shows that patients experience less pain than they would with traditional bare tip laser fibres.
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