Can varicose vein removal cause the treated leg to become fatter and discolored?

I had a varicose vein removed from my right leg 22 years ago. That leg is fatter than the left leg (which was not treated) and is a different color. Is this common?

Answers from doctors (8)


West Coast Vein & Aesthetic Center

Published on Jan 12, 2018

I do not believe that your bigger, discolored leg was caused by varicose vein removal 22 years ago. It is more likely that you are having disease progression of severe venous insufficiency in that limb. You should see a varicose vein specialist.

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Answered by West Coast Vein & Aesthetic Center

I do not believe that your bigger, discolored leg was caused by varicose vein removal 22 years ago. It is more likely that you are having disease progression of severe venous insufficiency in that limb. You should see a varicose vein specialist.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Intermountain Vein Center

Published on Aug 12, 2013

If you had the old stripping done, then you probably have more bad veins that need to be treated. It has been discovered that the old stripping surgery actually led to development of new varicose veins. Find a doctor that is recommended by the American College of Phlebology to treat your veins.

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Answered by Intermountain Vein Center

If you had the old stripping done, then you probably have more bad veins that need to be treated. It has been discovered that the old stripping surgery actually led to development of new varicose veins. Find a doctor that is recommended by the American College of Phlebology to treat your veins.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Arizona Vein Specialists

Published on Jul 31, 2013

I do not know which vein you had removed. It is possible you have lymphedema. See a qualified vein specialist for evaluation.

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Answered by Arizona Vein Specialists

I do not know which vein you had removed. It is possible you have lymphedema. See a qualified vein specialist for evaluation.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Published on Jul 31, 2013

I suspect the problem that caused the varicose veins is still an issue. This could be causing the leg to swell or appear fatter.

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Answered by Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

I suspect the problem that caused the varicose veins is still an issue. This could be causing the leg to swell or appear fatter.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Center of Orange County

Published on Jul 30, 2013

The difference in appearance has nothing to do with the fact you had a vein removed; rather, it may be due to underlying new vein problems. See a vein doctor for an evaluation and venous ultrasound.

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Answered by Vein Center of Orange County

The difference in appearance has nothing to do with the fact you had a vein removed; rather, it may be due to underlying new vein problems. See a vein doctor for an evaluation and venous ultrasound.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on Jul 30, 2013

I am not aware that vein treatment can make a leg fatter. However, there can be some localized discoloration> This usually goes away after a few months.

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

I am not aware that vein treatment can make a leg fatter. However, there can be some localized discoloration> This usually goes away after a few months.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Bellagio Vein Clinic

Published on Jul 30, 2013

No, in general, vein treatment will make the ankle and legs skinnier through decreased swelling. Discoloration may be due to recurrence of veins and leakage of blood. It is best that you get an evaluation from an experienced vein specialist.

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Answered by Bellagio Vein Clinic

No, in general, vein treatment will make the ankle and legs skinnier through decreased swelling. Discoloration may be due to recurrence of veins and leakage of blood. It is best that you get an evaluation from an experienced vein specialist.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Jul 30, 2013

It is very difficult to answer your question without seeing your leg and having more information. There are many reasons for a leg to swell and be discolored. See a vein specialist for an evaluation and to figure out the cause of your problem.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

It is very difficult to answer your question without seeing your leg and having more information. There are many reasons for a leg to swell and be discolored. See a vein specialist for an evaluation and to figure out the cause of your problem.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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