What Is the Recovery Time for Vein Stripping Surgery?

Varicose veins and advanced venous insufficiency can cause pain, swelling, and major disruptions to daily life. For some patients—especially those with large, symptomatic veins—vein stripping surgery (also called surgical phlebectomy or ligation/stripping) may be recommended.

While modern vein care now favors minimally invasive treatments such as VenaSeal, EVLT, and radiofrequency ablation, vein stripping is still used in select cases.

If you’ve been told you may need vein stripping, understanding the recovery timeline, expected soreness, restrictions, and when you can return to normal activity can help you prepare.

What to Expect Immediately After Surgery (Day 0–3)

After surgery, patients are moved into a recovery area while anesthesia wears off. During this period:

• Vital signs are monitored
• Pain medication is administered if needed
• Legs are wrapped or placed in compression stockings
• You’ll be instructed to begin light walking soon after surgery to prevent blood clots

Most patients go home the same day, but some may remain overnight depending on the extent of the procedure and overall health.

You will leave with detailed wound-care instructions, including:

• Keep incisions dry for the first 24–48 hours
• Avoid submerging wounds until cleared by your doctor
• Wear compression stockings as directed
• Begin short, gentle walking sessions

Short-Term Recovery (Week 1–4)

Short-term recovery generally lasts 2–4 weeks.

Expected symptoms:

• Mild–moderate pain
• Bruising along the treated vein path
• Tightness or pulling sensation
• Temporary swelling

Activity recommendations:

• Walk several times per day
• Avoid lifting anything over 10–15 lbs
• Avoid high-impact exercise
• Avoid twisting, bending, or deep squatting

You may have a follow-up appointment during this phase to remove stitches and evaluate healing.

Most patients can resume desk work within 1–2 weeks, depending on soreness and swelling.

Long-Term Recovery (4–12+ Weeks)

Full healing after vein stripping can take 6–12 weeks, with some patients needing a little longer depending on how extensive the surgery was.

During this period:

• Continue wearing compression stockings if recommended
• Gradually increase walking distance
• Avoid high-intensity workouts until cleared
• Expect bruising to fade and incision sites to flatten

Most patients return to full activity—including workouts—between 6–8 weeks, although those with extensive stripping may require up to 12 weeks for full resolution of discomfort.

Factors That Affect Recovery Time

Recovery can vary based on:

Patient factors

• Age
• General health
• Diabetes
• Circulatory problems
• Smoking history

Procedure factors

• Number of veins removed
• Severity of venous insufficiency
• Size and depth of the affected veins
• Whether other procedures were performed at the same time

Post-op behavior

Patients who follow post-op instructions—especially regarding compression, walking, and avoiding strain—typically heal significantly faster and with fewer complications.

When to Call Your Doctor

Contact your vein specialist if you experience:

• Increasing redness or swelling
• Fever or chills
• Drainage from the incision sites
• Severe pain not relieved by medication
• Sudden swelling in one leg
• Signs of deep vein thrombosis

Expert Vein Care in Northern California

At BASS Vein Center, our vascular specialists provide modern, minimally invasive vein treatments and expert guidance through every stage of recovery. Whether you're exploring surgical options or want to understand less invasive alternatives, our team is here to help.

Schedule a consultation today to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.