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The diagnostic criteria for varicose veins begin with the definition: “when reflux of venous blood lasts more than 0.5 seconds on a standing ultrasound examination.” Therefore, while a presumptive diagnosis can be made by visual inspection, an ultrasound is necessary for an objective and accurate diagnosis.

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It may vary depending on the physician, but it usually takes around 10 minutes.

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P Temporary symptom relief may be possible with medication, but it cannot cure varicose veins.

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Since our foundation, we have performed all types of varicose vein treatments. While most clinics usually offer only one or two methods, we carefully select the most suitable procedure for each patient’s condition. As a result, we have performed thousands of cases with every available method, building unmatched expertise and extensive experience. Among them, laser and radiofrequency ablation are the most frequently performed procedures.

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There is no single “best” method. The choice depends on several factors such as vein size, length, depth, number of affected veins, recurrence, and patient’s body type. That said, laser and radiofrequency ablation are the most commonly used treatments worldwide.

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Not necessarily. However, more advanced and costly techniques may have advantages such as less pain and fewer complications.

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Some clinics perform additional sclerotherapy for residual veins, while others address everything during the surgery. At our clinic, in most cases, we complete the entire treatment in a single day.

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No. What you see on the surface is only the tip of the iceberg. The underlying saphenous vein (the root vein) is far more important in treatment.

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It varies by surgeon. At our clinic, most incisions are the size of a needle hole, and it is rare for them to exceed 0.5 cm. In fact, 99% of our patients are able to shower the very next day.

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Yes. All patients are discharged on the same day and able to walk. To date, all 12,000 patients treated at our clinic have gone home on foot after surgery.

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Yes, you may come alone. However, since you may feel dizzy or uncomfortable after discharge, we recommend bringing a guardian if possible.

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It is generally recommended to avoid alcohol for at least 2–3 weeks, until recovery is complete and the incision has fully healed.

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It depends on the type and intensity of exercise. Most lower-body exercises are safe after about 3–4 weeks, while upper-body workouts can be resumed immediately.

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It varies by clinic, but in our case, the incision is so small that sutures are usually unnecessary. Even if sutures are placed, they are absorbable, so patients do not need to return for stitch removal.

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Since the wound is clean and very small, additional disinfection or ointment is unnecessary. Preventive antibiotics are not needed unless there is an actual infection.

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It depends on the clinic. At our hospital, we use a combination of local anesthesia and mild sedation. While some clinics perform spinal or general anesthesia, we prefer light sedation along with local anesthesia so patients feel no pain during the procedure.

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Yes. As long as there are no particular side effects, it is considered safe to take for more than 6 months.

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Since more than 80% of cases are hereditary, complete prevention is impossible. However, lifestyle changes such as avoiding obesity, prolonged standing or sitting, and exercising regularly can help.

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No. They do not actually prevent varicose veins, but may only provide temporary symptom relief.

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Yes. They can help relieve symptoms and may somewhat slow progression

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Most forms of exercise are recommended, especially non-weight-bearing activities such as swimming, cycling, yoga, and Pilates.

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Medical compression stockings should always cover the foot. Otherwise, swelling can occur on the top of the foot.

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Light daily activities or desk work are usually possible from the next day.

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We recommend about 2 weeks. They help reduce bruising, swelling, and pain after surgery. Not wearing them will not cause recurrence or harm the surgical site.

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Diet is not strongly related, but foods rich in antioxidants may be beneficial. Most exercises are helpful.

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Yes, but the effect is minimal.

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Avoid obesity, exercise regularly, and if discomfort occurs, visit the clinic promptly for evaluation.

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Standing alone does not cause recurrence. Genetic factors play a greater role—some people never experience recurrence despite standing, while others may even without standing jobs.

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Studies vary, but recurrence is reported at around 5%, significantly reduced compared to past rates of 20–30%.

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Light massages are usually fine 3–4 weeks after recovery is complete.

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Yes, if unrelated to the surgical site. However, some physical therapy may affect the surgical area, so caution is advised.

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Short flights (e.g., Jeju, China, Japan) are usually fine. For long-haul flights (e.g., to the U.S. or Europe), we recommend waiting at least one week.

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It may indicate that the disease has progressed beyond the point where medication is effective, or the cause may be unrelated to varicose veins and instead involve musculoskeletal or neurological issues.

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Although no major issues have been reported, it is advisable to avoid them.

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Generally, hospitalization is defined as a stay longer than 6 hours. If surgery, treatment, and recovery exceed this time, it qualifies as inpatient care for insurance purposes.

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Yes. It has no effect on the surgery.

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Yes. As long as your overall condition is stable, varicose vein surgery is generally not a problem.

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Policies vary by hospital, but at our clinic we offer free ultrasound examinations for life and provide free treatment in case of recurrence within one year.

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Medically, it is not a problem if done after a day or two.

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Yes. Since it may interfere with oxygen saturation measurement on your fingers, we recommend removing it at least from your thumb or index finger.