Varicose Veins Treatment in Toronto: Comprehensive Care and Compression Socks Benefits

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that most often appear in the legs when small one‑way valves fail and blood pools in surface veins. This page explains how venous reflux causes symptoms such as aching, heaviness, swelling and visible bulging veins, and how conservative measures — especially graduated compression — plus minimally invasive procedures can ease symptoms and slow progression. You’ll learn which signs merit medical review, how compression stockings work and how to choose the right mmHg level, and which endovenous treatments are commonly used in Toronto.

When you’re ready for clinical assessment, Ontario Vascular offers a free OHIP‑covered vein consultation with English and Spanish support and provides a full range of minimally invasive options; that mention is here to help when you want to take the next step while keeping the focus on patient education first. The sections below cover what varicose veins are, available minimally invasive treatments, practical compression‑sock guidance, reasons to choose Ontario Vascular, lifestyle tips to protect your veins, and step‑by‑step booking information to prepare for a consultation.

What Are Varicose Veins? Symptoms, Causes, and Risk Factors

Varicose veins are enlarged superficial veins that develop mainly because venous valves become incompetent, allowing blood to flow backward (venous reflux). That reflux raises pressure in surface veins, which leads to dilation, inflammation and the twisted, visible veins patients notice. Knowing this mechanism helps people pick the right conservative measures or procedures that directly target reflux. Below we explain common symptoms and the most frequent risk factors so you can decide when to seek specialist evaluation.

What Are the Common Symptoms of Varicose Veins?

Symptoms range from cosmetic concerns to functional problems, and early recognition helps with timely care. Typical complaints include aching or a heavy feeling in the legs after standing, visible bulging or twisted veins, leg swelling (edema), cramps—often at night—and itching or skin discolouration near affected veins. More worrying signs that need prompt attention include skin breakdown or ulcers, persistent severe swelling, sudden sharp increases in pain, or symptoms that could suggest deep vein thrombosis; these require urgent assessment. Noticing progressive or disruptive symptoms is the first step toward discussing options such as compression therapy or referral for duplex ultrasound and specialist review.

What Causes Varicose Veins and Who Is at Risk?

The primary cause of varicose veins is venous valve failure leading to reflux and higher pressure in superficial veins, commonly worsened by inflammation and weakening of the vein wall.

• Age‑related valve wear

• Family history (genetic predisposition)

• Female sex and hormonal changes (pregnancy, hormonal therapy)

• Obesity

• Prolonged standing or sitting

• Previous leg injury or thrombosis

Jobs or situations that keep you on your feet for long periods, or long immobile travel, increase venous pressure and reduce the calf‑muscle pump’s effectiveness. Knowing your personal risk lets you target prevention — for example, choosing the right compression strength and adding calf‑strengthening exercises to reduce symptoms and slow progression.

Which Minimally Invasive Treatments Are Available for Varicose Veins in Toronto?

Minimally invasive procedures either close or remove refluxing superficial veins to relieve symptoms and improve appearance without open surgery. Techniques seal a faulty vein (using heat, adhesive or a sclerosant) or extract bulging segments through tiny incisions, lowering venous pressure and redirecting flow through healthy channels. Compared with traditional vein stripping, endovenous and ambulatory methods usually mean less pain, faster recovery and fewer complications. At Ontario Vascular we offer radiofrequency ablation (RFA), sclerotherapy, glue ablation (VenaSeal) and microphlebectomy as part of individualized plans that follow duplex ultrasound findings and patient goals.

Each minimally invasive option suits different clinical situations; the table below summarizes common indications and what to expect from recovery to help you compare choices before a consultation.

This table compares common minimally invasive approaches and their typical recovery profiles.

Procedure	Typical Indication	Outcome / Recovery
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA)	Reflux in great or small saphenous veins causing symptoms	High closure rates; outpatient procedure; return to light activity same day; compression recommended post‑procedure
Sclerotherapy (foam or liquid)	Small to medium varicose veins and spider veins; adjunct to ablation	Minimally invasive injections; veins collapse gradually; multiple sessions possible; minimal downtime
Glue ablation (VenaSeal)	Non‑thermal closure for symptomatic refluxing veins	Adhesive closure without heat or tumescent anesthesia; quick recovery; option for patients sensitive to heat or extensive injections
Microphlebectomy (ambulatory)	Large bulging surface veins causing discomfort or cosmetic concern	Immediate removal through tiny incisions; minor bruising; fast symptom relief and aesthetic improvement

This comparison clarifies that the best choice depends on vein size, reflux pattern, symptom severity and patient preference, which guides duplex ultrasound evaluation and personalized treatment planning.

How Does Radiofrequency Ablation Work and What Are Its Benefits?

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) uses controlled thermal energy delivered through a catheter to heat and collapse the refluxing vein wall, causing it to seal and redirect blood to healthier veins. Heat denatures vein proteins, producing controlled fibrosis and durable closure that reduces venous pressure and symptoms. Benefits include high success rates, minimal scarring, an outpatient setting under local anaesthesia, and a quick return to normal activity — many patients resume light exercise within days. After RFA we usually recommend wearing graduated compression stockings for a short period to reduce bruising and swelling and aid healing.

What Are Sclerotherapy, Glue Ablation, and Microphlebectomy?

Sclerotherapy injects a sclerosant into small and medium veins to irritate the lining, causing the vein to collapse and be reabsorbed — it’s especially useful for spider veins and reticular veins.

Glue ablation (VenaSeal) applies a medical adhesive to close the targeted refluxing vein without heat, often reducing the need for tumescent anaesthesia and offering comfort advantages for selected patients. Microphlebectomy removes large surface varicosities through tiny incisions, giving immediate cosmetic and symptomatic improvement. These treatments can be combined as needed depending on duplex findings and your goals — Ontario Vascular explains expected recovery and follow‑up and tailors the plan to your anatomy and lifestyle.

How Do Compression Socks Help Manage Varicose Veins? Benefits and Usage Guidelines

Graduated compression stockings apply the most pressure at the ankle and gradually less up the leg, which supports venous return, lowers venous pressure and limits fluid buildup. This effect helps reduce aching, heaviness and swelling and can slow disease progression when worn consistently. Compression is also an important support after many procedures to help healing and reduce bruising; used conservatively it can make symptoms manageable for people not ready, or not yet indicated, for invasive treatment. Ontario Vascular offers clinical recommendations on compression levels, fitting guidance and help obtaining medical‑grade stockings when appropriate.

Different stocking styles and mmHg ratings suit different needs; the table below pairs common options with typical uses so you can choose the most appropriate level for symptom control or post‑procedure support.

Compression Type	Compression Level mmHg	Typical Use Case / Benefit
Knee‑high stockings	15–20 mmHg	Mild symptom relief, travel, standing jobs, preventative support
Knee‑high medical‑grade	20–30 mmHg	Symptomatic varicose veins, moderate swelling, post‑procedure support
Thigh‑high or pantyhose	20–40 mmHg (varies)	Extensive leg involvement or more proximal disease; improved reflux control
Higher medical‑grade	30–40+ mmHg	Severe swelling, chronic venous insufficiency, ulcer prevention under clinical guidance

This guide helps you understand which compression level is commonly recommended for specific situations and supports clinic‑assisted fitting to ensure comfort and effectiveness.

What Are the Different Types and Compression Levels of Compression Socks?

Compression stockings are available as knee‑high, thigh‑high and pantyhose styles, and come in over‑the‑counter ranges as well as medical‑grade graduated options with specific mmHg ratings. The mmHg value denotes the pressure applied: 15–20 mmHg is often enough for mild symptoms and travel, while 20–30 mmHg is the most common medical‑grade recommendation for symptomatic varicose veins and post‑procedure care. Fabric (nylon, elastane) and construction (open toe vs closed toe, seams) affect comfort and fit, so accurate sizing is essential to achieve therapeutic pressure without constriction. For patients in Toronto seeking medical‑grade stockings or custom fitting, Ontario Vascular provides practical guidance and access to appropriate products.

The mmHg rating indicates the pressure applied; 15–20 mmHg is often enough for mild symptoms and travel, while 20–30 mmHg is the most commonly recommended medical‑grade level for symptomatic varicose veins and post‑procedure care. Materials (nylon, elastane) and construction (open toe vs closed toe, seams) affect comfort and fit, so proper sizing and fitting are essential to achieve therapeutic pressure without constriction. For patients in Toronto seeking medical‑grade stockings or custom fitting, Ontario Vascular provides guidance and access to appropriately graded stockings to match clinical indications.

When and How Should Compression Stockings Be Worn for Best Results?

Compression stockings work best when put on first thing in the morning before legs swell, because the graduated pressure can prevent daytime pooling. For everyday symptom management they are usually worn during waking hours and removed at night unless your clinician advises otherwise; after procedures, most patients follow a defined daytime wear period with a gradual taper.

Helpful donning tips include using rubber‑grip gloves or a donning aid, rolling the stocking onto the foot and pulling up smoothly to distribute pressure evenly. Follow manufacturer care instructions — regular washing preserves elasticity and effectiveness. If stockings cause numbness, tingling or increased pain, seek medical re‑evaluation, as that may indicate poor fit or a different problem.

Why Choose Ontario Vascular and Dr. Luis Figueroa for Varicose Vein Treatment in Toronto?

Ontario Vascular provides patient‑centred, minimally invasive care for venous disease with a focus on evidence‑based options and conservative treatment where appropriate. Our team offers bilingual support in English and Spanish and provides RFA, sclerotherapy, glue ablation and microphlebectomy so we can match treatment to each patient’s anatomy and goals. We also offer a free OHIP‑covered vein consultation that includes a focused evaluation and, when indicated, duplex ultrasound — a streamlined first step for eligible patients. That combination of modern techniques, bilingual communication and an OHIP‑covered initial assessment makes our clinic a convenient local resource for people seeking up‑to‑date vein care.

What Expertise Does Dr. Luis Figueroa Bring as a Board-Certified Vascular Surgeon?

Dr. Luis Figueroa is a board‑certified vascular surgeon who specializes in diagnosing and treating venous disease using minimally invasive techniques and ambulatory procedures. His English and Spanish language skills help ensure clear communication with a diverse patient population and support informed shared decision‑making. Dr. Figueroa integrates duplex ultrasound findings with your symptoms to recommend conservative measures or targeted interventions tailored to your anatomy and lifestyle. Patients benefit from a clinician‑led approach that prioritizes symptom relief and durable outcomes through careful selection of therapy.

How Does Ontario Vascular Offer Convenient and Compassionate Care in Toronto?

We structure initial visits to include a focused history, a targeted physical exam and duplex ultrasound when needed so we can give a clear diagnosis and practical, evidence‑based recommendations during the free OHIP‑covered consultation. Our patient‑centred model emphasises plain‑language explanations, bilingual support and coordinated follow‑up for procedure planning, post‑procedure compression guidance and long‑term surveillance if required. Practical help — like assistance choosing medical‑grade stockings and arranging minimally invasive procedures — is part of the care pathway, reducing friction for patients navigating options. Our goal is to shorten the time from diagnosis to effective therapy while keeping you informed and comfortable at every step.

What Lifestyle Changes and Prevention Tips Support Vein Health with Varicose Veins?

Lifestyle changes complement medical and procedural care by improving calf‑muscle pump function, lowering venous pressure and limiting factors that worsen reflux. Regular calf‑focused exercise, weight management, intermittent leg elevation and avoiding prolonged immobility are simple, effective interventions that reduce symptoms and slow progression. These measures improve venous return, cut down stasis and reduce inflammatory stress on vein walls.

The table below summarizes common interventions, how they work and the benefits you can expect to help prioritise effective daily habits.

Intervention	Mechanism	Expected Benefit
Regular walking and calf exercises	Activates the calf‑muscle pump to boost venous return	Less leg heaviness and swelling; improved circulation
Weight management and healthy diet	Reduces intra‑abdominal and venous pressure	Lowers progression risk and eases symptoms
Leg elevation for 15–20 minutes daily	Uses gravity to reduce venous pooling	Quick reduction in swelling and discomfort
Daily use of compression when indicated	Applies graduated external pressure to assist flow	Better symptom control and reduced edema

This framework helps you combine complementary strategies for meaningful symptom relief and longer‑term vein health.

Which Lifestyle Habits Help Prevent Varicose Veins from Worsening?

Consistent movement, targeted strength work and practical workplace adjustments deliver measurable benefits and slow progression. Simple habits include walking 20–30 minutes a day, doing seated or standing calf raises hourly during long work periods, maintaining a healthy weight, and elevating your legs during rest to lower hydrostatic pressure. For desk or standing jobs, short frequent breaks to move and change posture reduce sustained venous pressure and support return. Using these habits alongside appropriate compression creates a layered plan that maximises symptom control and complements clinical care.

When Should You See a Vascular Specialist for Varicose Veins?

See a vascular specialist when conservative measures no longer control symptoms, when you notice skin changes (eczema, hyperpigmentation) or ulcers, or when swelling and pain are progressive or unexplained. Episodes that suggest superficial thrombophlebitis, recurrent vein inflammation, or significant cosmetic or quality‑of‑life concerns also warrant specialist assessment and duplex ultrasound to evaluate reflux and plan treatment. If your symptoms interfere with daily activities despite compression and lifestyle changes, booking an OHIP‑covered consultation gives you a timely clinical evaluation and a personalised plan. Early specialist input clarifies whether minimally invasive closure, sclerosant therapy or removal procedures are the right next step.

How Can You Book a Free OHIP-Covered Vein Consultation at Ontario Vascular?

Booking a free OHIP‑covered vein consultation at Ontario Vascular is straightforward and patient‑friendly. We offer bilingual support in English and Spanish and schedule the OHIP consultation to include a focused history, physical exam and duplex ultrasound when clinically indicated to assess venous reflux.

1. Confirm OHIP eligibility: Have your provincial health card ready so we can verify coverage.

2. Request a consultation: Contact the clinic to request an OHIP‑covered vein assessment and tell us your language preference for bilingual support.

3. Prepare necessary items: Bring your OHIP card, a list of current medications and any prior leg imaging if available.

4. Attend the appointment: Expect a focused history, physical exam and duplex ultrasound if indicated, followed by clear treatment recommendations.

These steps simplify access and help you arrive prepared, enabling an efficient evaluation and clear next steps after the consultation.

What Is Included in the Free Vein Consultation?

The free OHIP‑covered vein consultation normally includes a focused clinical history to document symptoms and risk factors, a targeted physical exam of the legs, and duplex ultrasound when the clinician judges it necessary to assess reflux and venous anatomy. The visit concludes with a discussion of findings and personalised recommendations that range from conservative care and compression guidance to minimally invasive procedure options suited to your anatomy and goals. We allow time to answer questions about expected outcomes, recovery and whether same‑day or scheduled procedures are appropriate, so you can make an informed choice. This structured assessment prioritises safe, evidence‑based care tailored to each patient.

How to Schedule Your Appointment with Ontario Vascular in Toronto

Scheduling is organised so we capture language preferences and OHIP coverage and provide helpful pre‑visit instructions. When you call to book, tell us you want the free OHIP‑covered vein consultation and specify English or Spanish support so we can arrange bilingual assistance. After booking, the clinic sends confirmation and practical guidance on what to bring, how to prepare for a possible duplex ultrasound and what to expect during the visit. Clear pre‑visit instructions reduce anxiety and streamline the diagnostic process, making the first step toward relief straightforward and patient‑focused.

Frequently Asked Questions

What lifestyle changes can help manage varicose veins effectively?

Targeted lifestyle changes can significantly reduce symptoms. Regular activity that works the calf muscles improves venous return and lowers swelling. Maintaining a healthy weight eases pressure on the veins, and elevating the legs for 15–20 minutes daily can relieve discomfort. Avoiding long periods of standing or sitting also helps. Combining these habits with appropriate compression stockings creates a practical, effective approach to managing varicose veins.

Are there any dietary recommendations for preventing varicose veins?

A balanced diet supports vein health. High‑fibre foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation, which can raise venous pressure. Foods rich in flavonoids — like berries and citrus — may support circulation and vessel strength. Staying well hydrated also helps maintain healthy blood volume and flow. Overall, a vascular‑friendly diet is a useful complement to other preventive measures.

How can I tell if my varicose veins require medical attention?

Seek medical attention if you have persistent pain, swelling or heaviness that doesn’t improve with home care, or if you notice skin changes such as darkening, ulcers or ongoing itching near affected areas. Sudden symptom changes — more pain, swelling or redness — also warrant prompt review. Early assessment helps prevent complications and leads to better treatment outcomes.

What are the potential complications of untreated varicose veins?

Untreated varicose veins can lead to chronic venous insufficiency, where veins struggle to return blood to the heart, causing persistent swelling and skin changes. There’s also a risk of blood clots, including superficial thrombophlebitis and, less commonly, deep vein thrombosis. Poor circulation can result in skin ulcers and dermatitis. Timely treatment reduces these risks and improves long‑term vein health.

How do I choose the right compression stockings for my needs?

Choosing the right stockings depends on needed compression level, style and fit. Compression is measured in mmHg: 15–20 mmHg for mild symptoms, and 20–30 mmHg for moderate symptoms and most post‑procedure support. Select knee‑high or thigh‑high based on where you have symptoms, and ensure accurate sizing for therapeutic benefit. Consult your clinician for personalised recommendations and fitting when possible.

What should I expect during a vein consultation at Ontario Vascular?

At your consultation we review your symptoms and medical history, perform a leg exam and may recommend duplex ultrasound to check blood flow and identify reflux. That assessment leads to personalised treatment options — from conservative measures and lifestyle advice to minimally invasive procedures. Our aim is to give you a clear understanding of your condition and the best path forward.

Conclusion

Effective management of varicose veins starts with understanding their causes and symptoms and then considering both conservative and minimally invasive options. Graduated compression stockings often reduce discomfort and slow progression, while lifestyle changes further support vein health. For personalised care, Ontario Vascular provides comprehensive consultations to assess needs and recommend tailored solutions. When you’re ready, take the first step toward relief by booking your free OHIP‑covered vein consultation.