Is edema and pain in the calf normal after VNUS closure?

I just had VNUS closure 3 days ago. Right after the procedure was done, I could see large amounts of swelling in my upper leg. It is now in my lower leg, which is swollen and painful. What's causing this to happen? Is edema and calf pain normal?

Answers from doctors (7)


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Aug 23, 2017

This is not normal and you should be seen immediately by your surgeon or go to the ER in case there is a blood clot. You should also be in compression hose to the thigh.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

This is not normal and you should be seen immediately by your surgeon or go to the ER in case there is a blood clot. You should also be in compression hose to the thigh.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Medilaser, Cosmetic Surgery and Vein Center

Published on Aug 22, 2017

It is hard to say with out seeing you, but the swelling in the upper thigh possibly could be from all the fluid put into your leg from the procedure so. There could be a number of reasons why there is swelling in the calf. If it is concerning you, the best decision is to follow up with your doctor so they can take a look and resolve any issues.

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Answered by Medilaser, Cosmetic Surgery and Vein Center

It is hard to say with out seeing you, but the swelling in the upper thigh possibly could be from all the fluid put into your leg from the procedure so. There could be a number of reasons why there is swelling in the calf. If it is concerning you, the best decision is to follow up with your doctor so they can take a look and resolve any issues.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


VeinSolutions - Edina

Published on Oct 25, 2013

If you had VNUS closure 72 hours ago, you should have had a follow-up ultrasound to confirm that the closure was successful and that the closure is within normal parameters. As for the edema (swelling) you are experiencing post-operatively, this does seem rather unusual. However, it is less uncommon if you had additional work done, most specifically microstab phlebectomies. If you did indeed have work done other than just the closure, it is perhaps more to be expected that there would be some post-op edema. If it was only the closure you had done and you are having this issue, I would seek medical attention if the problem does not improve within 24 hours. There is a possibility that the edema could be indicative of a DVT (deep vein thrombosis). Most immediately, I would recommend you elevate the leg and limit your activity.

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Answered by VeinSolutions - Edina

If you had VNUS closure 72 hours ago, you should have had a follow-up ultrasound to confirm that the closure was successful and that the closure is within normal parameters. As for the edema (swelling) you are experiencing post-operatively, this does seem rather unusual. However, it is less uncommon if you had additional work done, most specifically microstab phlebectomies. If you did indeed have work done other than just the closure, it is perhaps more to be expected that there would be some post-op edema. If it was only the closure you had done and you are having this issue, I would seek medical attention if the problem does not improve within 24 hours. There is a possibility that the edema could be indicative of a DVT (deep vein thrombosis). Most immediately, I would recommend you elevate the leg and limit your activity.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Oct 24, 2013

If you had closure of the small saphenous vein, then posterior calf pain would be normal. If you had closure of the greater saphenous vein to the calf, then medial calf pain would be normal. Swelling can occur with any venous closure. If you have calf pain and swelling and nothing was done in the calf area, then I would get a venous duplex to make sure that there is no deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Follow up with your treating physician.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

If you had closure of the small saphenous vein, then posterior calf pain would be normal. If you had closure of the greater saphenous vein to the calf, then medial calf pain would be normal. Swelling can occur with any venous closure. If you have calf pain and swelling and nothing was done in the calf area, then I would get a venous duplex to make sure that there is no deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Follow up with your treating physician.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


General Vascular Surgery Group

Published on Oct 24, 2013

While your symptoms are not unusual after having a VNUS closure, you should consult with your treating MD.

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Answered by General Vascular Surgery Group

While your symptoms are not unusual after having a VNUS closure, you should consult with your treating MD.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


South Palm Cardiovascular Associates

Published on Oct 24, 2013

Yes, edema and pain are normal that soon after VNUS closure. Speak with your treating physician to find out how the symptoms can be minimized during the healing process.

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Answered by South Palm Cardiovascular Associates

Yes, edema and pain are normal that soon after VNUS closure. Speak with your treating physician to find out how the symptoms can be minimized during the healing process.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Veins etc. at Comprehensive Cardiovascular Consultants

Published on Oct 24, 2013

In some cases, edema and pain are expected to a degree. But, in general, it is not normal. Go back to your treating physician. An ultrasound should be performed to make sure there are no complications?

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Answered by Veins etc. at Comprehensive Cardiovascular Consultants

In some cases, edema and pain are expected to a degree. But, in general, it is not normal. Go back to your treating physician. An ultrasound should be performed to make sure there are no complications?

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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