Varicose Vein Treatments in Melbourne
Advanced, minimally invasive options for varicose veins, spider veins and venous reflux — tailored by a Specialist Vascular & Endovascular Surgeon. Fast recovery. Lasting results.
Book a consultation with Mr Peter Milne
30+ years Specialist vascular experience. Duplex ultrasound at your first visit, so you leave with a personalised plan — not a generic recommendation.
Why treat varicose veins?
Varicose veins are more than cosmetic. They can cause pain, swelling, skin changes and, if untreated, complications. Our goal is to provide safe, effective solutions that improve comfort, function and appearance.
Our treatment options
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)
Suitable for over 85% of patients, with most returning to normal activity within 2 hours to 4 days and back to work in 1–4 days. Performed under local anaesthetic. (General anaesthesia is available in hospital if you want both legs done simultaneously.)
- Similar effectiveness to surgery for most cases
- Lower recurrence and less discomfort for many patients
- Often combined with ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy
Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy
Injection of a sclerosant solution into abnormal veins using ultrasound guidance to target deeper or residual varices. Outpatient setting, minimal downtime; pairs well with EVLA.
- Excellent for smaller or remaining veins after laser or surgery
- No hospitalisation required
Surgical Treatment
Modern surgery uses ligation, puncture and extraction through tiny incisions — avoiding old-style stripping — with approximately 90% effectiveness at 5–10 years. Hospital stay 1–3 days; return to normal activity in 3–14 days.
- Preferred option for very large or tortuous veins
- Performed by a Specialist Vascular Surgeon
- Follow-up sclerotherapy may treat fine surface veins
Compression Stockings
External compression to relieve aching or swelling.
- Do not prevent or cure varicose veins
- Can feel tight and warm; use as advised
Coil (Clip) Occlusion
Minimally invasive option for leaking ovarian/testicular veins causing pelvic congestion or varicoceles.
- Coils block the faulty vein; sclerotherapy treats related varices
- Used successfully for decades; performed with imaging guidance
Vein Glue Treatments
Current evidence and our experience indicate glue is unsatisfactory and unproven versus laser for leg varicose veins.
Watch: injection & laser treatments
Short clips showing how our minimally invasive treatments are performed.
Laser vs Surgery: which is best?
Both options are effective. Laser suits most patients with quicker recovery; surgery remains superior for very large or complex veins. The best approach is confirmed after duplex ultrasound.
| Factor | Laser (EVLA) | Surgery |
|---|---|---|
| Return to activity | 2 hours – 4 days | 3–14 days |
| Return to work | 1–4 days | 3–17 days |
| Anaesthetic | Local (general optional) | General / Regional |
| Procedure time | 20–40 mins | 1–2 hours |
| Hospital time | Outpatient or short stay | Day or overnight |
Why a Vascular Surgeon?
- Specialist training with advanced diagnostic ultrasound
- Can operate under general anaesthesia (treat both legs safely in one session)
- Public and private pathways (insurance claims where applicable)
- Expert management of complex conditions (e.g. pelvic or scrotal varices)
What to expect
Initial consultation
Including duplex ultrasound mapping.
Tailored plan
Laser, surgery, sclerotherapy — or a combination.
Clear guidance
On recovery, stockings and follow-up.
FAQs
Is laser better than surgery for varicose veins?
For most patients, yes — EVLA offers similar effectiveness with faster recovery and less discomfort. Very large or tortuous veins may be better served by surgery. A duplex ultrasound confirms the best choice.
How long will I be off work?
After laser: typically 1–4 days. After surgery: typically 3–17 days, depending on your role and vein anatomy.
Do compression stockings cure varicose veins?
No. They can relieve symptoms but do not prevent or cure varicose veins.
Book a consultation with Mr Peter Milne
30+ years Specialist vascular experience. Duplex ultrasound at your first visit, so you leave with a personalised plan — not a generic recommendation.