What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are superficial (just under the skin) veins that have become dilated, twisted or raised in appearance because the one-way valves inside the veins are failing to work properly. Blood that should be travelling back toward the heart slows or flows in reverse (“reflux”), increasing pressure and causing vein walls to stretch.
While many people have varicose veins without serious symptoms, for others, they can cause discomfort, visible changes or skin-related complications.
What to expect
1
In-Clinic Assessment
You’ll meet with a medical practitioner who will:
- Review your concerns and symptoms
- Examine the affected areas
- Discuss contributing factors and medical history
- Determine whether your case is cosmetic, symptomatic, or requires vascular referral
This stage ensures an accurate understanding of your veins and the safest pathway forward.
2
Personalised Treatment Plan
After assessment, we outline your options clearly, which may include:
- Lifestyle & circulation-support advice
- Compression recommendations
- In-clinic aesthetic management of visible veins (if suitable)
- Or, when needed, referral to a trusted vascular specialist for procedural treatment (e.g., ablation, foam, surgical options)
You will receive an honest explanation of expected outcomes, limits, risks and aftercare.
3
Treatment / Referral Pathway
You proceed with the option that best suits your goals:
- In-clinic non-invasive care, or
- Vascular specialist intervention
Every pathway is led by your preference, safety and comfort.
4
Aftercare & Support
Should you go ahead with treatment with us, we will follow up as needed to:
- Review your progress
- Support your skin health
- Monitor results over time
- Adjust or refine recommendations if required
Our team remains available for any questions throughout your journey.
When and where do they appear? Signs & contributing factors
Varicose veins can begin gradually, often becoming more visible with age. Symptoms may worsen after prolonged standing or sitting, or near the end of the day. In some cases, pregnancy, weight changes or increased time on your feet can trigger or accelerate them.
Appearance
- Most commonly on the legs (especially the lower legs) due to the effect of gravity and venous return from the feet to the heart.
- You may see cords or bulges just under the skin, blue or dark-purple in colour.
- The skin around the ankles or calves may show changes in texture, colour, swelling or even eczema‐type features.
Contributing Factors
- Ageing and weakening vein walls/valves.
- Family history (heredity).
- Pregnancy (hormonal changes + increased volume + pressure).
- Prolonged standing or sitting (poor circulation).
- Prolonged weight gain (increased pressure in legs).
- Previous deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) or other venous disease.
Why address them (And when might you)?
While varicose veins are often more of a visible or comfort concern than a serious medical emergency, there are good reasons to get them assessed:
- They may cause symptoms such as aching, heaviness, itching or swelling of the lower legs, especially after long hours of standing.
- Skin changes around the veins (pigmentation, eczema, hardening) may increase the risk of complications (ulcers, bleeding) if left unmanaged.
- While purely cosmetic concerns (i.e., you dislike how they look) are valid, many public /NHS referral pathways only cover treatment when there are symptoms or complications.
- Early assessment can help you understand your options, reduce the risk of progression, and improve comfort or appearance as desired.
What we offer
At Cambridge Contour Clinic, we believe in informed choice and personalised care. In your consultation, we will:
- Conduct a full assessment of your legs and veins (including medical history, risk factors, and symptoms).
- Discuss whether your varicose veins are likely to benefit from minimally invasive treatments or require referral to a vascular specialist.
- Map and explain your options clearly - so you understand the benefits, risks, realistic results and after-care.
- Support you in both symptom management, e.g., improving comfort, skin care, lifestyle advice and, if suitable treatments are available, aesthetic improvement aligned with your goals.
Varicose Veins Frequently Asked Questions
Are varicose veins purely cosmetic?
Not always. While some people have no symptoms and are simply bothered by how they look, others experience aching, skin changes or swelling. Treatment decisions should consider both comfort and appearance.
Will treatment make all visible veins disappear?
Realistic expectations are important. Even after successful treatment, new veins may develop, and some visible cords may remain.
Is treatment always available on the NHS?
Not necessarily. NHS access often depends on symptoms such as pain, skin changes and ulceration, rather than purely cosmetic reasons. Private clinics offer more flexibility.
What are the risks of treatment?
As with any treatment, there are always potential risks depending on the treatment method. Your specialist will go through these with you in your consultation.
Can I reduce my risk of developing more varicose veins?
Yes - healthy lifestyle, movement, avoiding prolonged standing/sitting, managing weight and wearing compression hosiery can all help.
