Experts from a specialist vein clinic in Sutton Coldfield are advising people not to wait until the summer months to get their varicose veins treated (February, 2025).

The colder months of the year are the opportune time for people to seek help with varicose veins as they will have ample time to heal before the warmer months arrive.

Donald Adam, Consultant Vascular Surgeon at Premier Veins at Ashfurlong Medical Centre on Tamworth Road in Sutton Coldfield, said: “As the weather warms up, shorts, skirts and other summer clothes make a reappearance in our wardrobes. Many people will have holiday plans on the horizon and be gearing themselves up to being able to confidently wear their chosen swimwear, and it’s at this time that many will notice varicose veins on their legs. They might have even noticed them sooner but had put the idea of getting them treated to the back of their minds.

“Varicose veins occur when the valves in your veins don’t function properly, causing blood to flow backwards and pool. This results in swollen, twisted veins that you can see on the surface of the skin. Sometimes they can cause pain, heaviness, and swelling in the legs which, if left untreated, can worsen over time, leading to further discomfort.

Donald Adam, Consultant Vascular Surgeon at Premier Veins in Sutton Coldfield, which is advising people not to wait until the summer months to get their varicose veins treated.

placeholder image — Donald Adam, Consultant Vascular Surgeon at Premier Veins in Sutton Coldfield, which is advising people not to wait until the summer months to get their varicose veins treated.

“We’re urging people not to leave getting their varicose veins treated until the summer months as now is the ideal time to get them sorted.

“Winter, particularly the colder months, is widely considered the best time for varicose vein treatment. For one, wearing compression garments is much more manageable during winter. These garments play a crucial role in promoting blood flow and supporting recovery, but they can feel warm and restrictive in the summer heat. In winter, however, they fit seamlessly under your clothing, making them less noticeable and more comfortable to wear.

“Additionally, the colder season minimises your exposure to the sun, which is especially important for healing skin. Sunlight can lead to hyperpigmentation or irritation on treated areas, so the shorter, darker days of winter work to your advantage. Winter also encourages a naturally slower pace, making it easier to prioritise rest and recovery without feeling like you’re missing out on outdoor activities or social events.”

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is most commonly used to treat large varicose veins in the thigh and back of the calf. Recommended as a first-line treatment by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, RFA involves using an ultrasound probe to guide a fine catheter into the vein, which transmits heat to collapse and seal the vein walls. Blood flow is then redirected through healthy veins.

Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy (UGFS) can also be used to treat more twisted veins. This involves making small punctures to insert tiny tubes, through which a foam mixture is injected to collapse and seal the vein. Like RFA, the procedure redirects blood flow through healthy veins.

Donald added: “One of the most encouraging aspects of varicose vein treatment is the almost immediate relief many patients experience. Pain caused by the backward flow of blood often diminishes quickly after treatment, providing a sense of comfort and reassurance. While the healing process begins right away, the full benefits of the procedure unfold gradually.

“It can take about six months to see a significant improvement, with the healing process continuing for up to a year. Starting treatment now ensures that by the time summer rolls around, you’ll be ready to show off your legs with confidence.

“We are ready to help in our local Sutton Coldfield clinic with free, no obligation consultations available for patients to find out more about the treatments we offer.”

Donald qualified from the University of Edinburgh and went on to gain extensive training in vascular and endovascular surgery in Edinburgh, Leicester and Adelaide, Australia.

He was appointed as Consultant Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon in Birmingham in 2004.

Donald has been awarded a doctorate in vascular research at the University of Edinburgh and is an author of several publications on varicose veins and leg ulcers.

Premier Veins is dedicated to transforming vein health and restoring confidence. Its expert team, with a strong foundation in the NHS and research, established Premier Veins in the Midlands in 2012 to deliver a superior level of personalised attention.

Its experienced consultant vascular specialists offer advanced, minimally invasive treatments that can help people regain confidence in their appearance.

The company has received the Best for Varicose Vein Treatments - UK award by Global 100 for two consecutive years.