Varicose Veins – Diagnosis & Treatment
Evaluate and treat varicose veins – by an experienced dermatologist at Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich - Sihlcity
Varicose Veins – Diagnosis & Treatment
Have chronic abscesses and painful nodules clarified and treated by an experienced dermatologist at the Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich - Sihlcity
Heavy legs, visible veins, or pulling pain in the lower legs – treat varicose veins gently with laser, without surgery
Examinations
Vein ultrasound
Procedure
Initial consultation
Treatment with laser
Duration
between 30 and 60 minutes
What are varicose veins?
The veins in your legs return blood back to the heart – upwards, against gravity. Small valves in the veins help with this process, working like little one-way gates: they only let the blood flow upward.
When these valves don’t close properly anymore, part of the blood flows back down. This builds up in the veins, increasing pressure and permanently widening the veins. This leads to varicose veins – also called varices in medical terms.
Without proper treatment, the condition of the veins can worsen over time. The skin suffers from the constant pressure, which can cause discoloration, itching, or open sores.
It’s a good idea to get checked and treated if you …
- often have heavy or tired legs, especially in the evening or after standing for long periods
- notice swollen ankles or twisted, visible veins in your legs
- got varicose veins after pregnancy
- have a family history of vein problems
- want a gentle treatment option that doesn’t involve surgery
What happens during diagnosis and treatment?
First, we examine your leg veins using a special ultrasound technique (called duplex ultrasound). This lets us clearly see if vein valves aren’t closing properly or if the blood flow is disrupted.
What happens during treatment?
For the treatment, a very fine laser probe is gently inserted into the affected vein through a small entry point. The vein is not cut open or removed. Instead, the probe uses heat to seal the vein from the inside.
The surrounding tissue is not harmed. Over the next few weeks, your body will gradually break down the sealed vein. Blood flow is maintained, as other healthy veins take over its job.
How does the diagnosis process work?
Initial consultation & ultrasound
At your first appointment, we talk about your symptoms and any risk factors. We then carry out an ultrasound scan of your leg veins.
Treatment planning
If the ultrasound shows vein weakness that needs treatment, we’ll explain your options.
Laser therapy
The laser treatment is done on an outpatient basis at our clinic, usually with local anaesthesia. The affected vein is sealed off through a small access point.
Follow-up & aftercare
Right after the treatment, we give you a compression stocking for the treated leg. In most cases, you can go home the same day. The first check-up is the next day, and another usually follows after 2 to 4 weeks.
At Derma Medical Clinic, vein conditions are diagnosed and treated by Dr. Benjamin Miller, specialist in dermatology and vein medicine (phlebology).
He has many years of experience in the diagnosis and treatment of vein disorders.
Dr. Benjamin Miller
Board-certified Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology FMH
Dr. med. Markus Dendorfer
Board-certified Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology FMH
What you can expect from us
Gentle laser method
We use modern laser systems that seal the affected vein from the inside – with no cuts and no scars. In many cases, this method replaces traditional surgery.
Outpatient treatment
Laser treatment is performed on an outpatient basis: you come for your appointment and go home the same day. No general anaesthesia or hospital stay is usually needed.
Personal support – from first visit to aftercare
Instead of changing doctors, you have dedicated contact persons who know you, understand your needs, and guide you through the entire process.
Everything in one place
You get diagnosis, medical care, and cosmetic support all in one place. This means short distances, consistent contact persons, and well-organized care from start to finish.
Have you noticed visible veins, a constant feeling of heaviness in your legs, or pulling pain when walking?
Book an appointment now for a detailed check-up and tailored treatment at Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich - Sihlcity.
FAQ – Common questions about varicose veins
What are varicose veins and how can I recognize them?
Varicose veins – medically called varices – are permanently widened, twisted veins, usually in the legs. They often appear as bluish, bulging veins. Common signs are heavy legs, swelling, a tight feeling, or visible veins in the lower legs.
What symptoms can varicose veins cause?
Typical symptoms include heavy or tired legs (especially in the evening), a feeling of tightness, swelling in the ankles or lower legs, and visible bulging veins. Itching, pain, or skin discoloration may also occur – especially if the condition progresses.
When should varicose veins be treated?
As soon as you notice symptoms like pain, swelling, or changes to the skin. Even without symptoms, treatment can make sense to prevent complications like inflammation, thrombosis, or slow-healing wounds.
How do varicose veins develop?
Varicose veins develop when the vein valves are weak and the blood can’t flow properly back to the heart. Causes often include genetics, lack of movement, long periods of sitting or standing, hormonal changes (e.g., in pregnancy), or being overweight.
What happens during the examination?
Diagnosis is done with a special ultrasound that lets us clearly see how well the blood is flowing and whether the valves are working. The test is painless and takes about 30 minutes.
How can varicose veins be treated?
Depending on the findings, there are several options – such as laser (endovenous thermal therapy), sclerotherapy (foam treatment), compression therapy, or surgery in some cases. At our clinic, we focus on gentle, modern laser treatment.
What happens to the blood when the vein is sealed?
The blood is naturally redirected through healthy neighboring veins. The sealed vein slowly breaks down without affecting your circulation.
How long does the laser treatment take?
Laser treatment usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. It’s done on an outpatient basis – you come in for the procedure and go back home the same day.
Can varicose veins be prevented?
Yes, with regular exercise (like walking or cycling), elevating the legs, avoiding long periods of sitting or standing, and eating a healthy diet. If you’re prone to vein problems, wearing compression stockings – for example during pregnancy or in standing jobs – can help.
