Canberra Vein Care
By The R ClinicA leading vein care clinic specialising in non-surgical treatment of varicose veins. We help our patients reduce, repair, and remove unwanted varicose veins.
Canberra Vein Care
Canberra Vein Care
Canberra’s specialised vein care clinic
Struggling with sore, achy legs and unsightly lines and bumps? Restore healthier legs today with Canberra Vein Care.
With a local doctor and a dedicated team, we are proud to provide accessible vein treatment to patients within Canberra and surrounding communities.
Conditions
Treatments
Varicose Veins
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged diseased veins most commonly occurring in the legs and feet. Any vein that is close to the skin’s surface (superficial) can become varicosed and often appear blue or dark purple in colour.
Symptoms associated with varicose veins can include heaviness, burning, aching, stinging, throbbing, swollen ankles, restless legs and leg cramps. The presence of a skin rash, small blue veins on the feet, skin discolouration, ulcers and scarring can be due to advancing vein problems. Furthermore, varicose veins are prone to developing superficial thrombophlebitis, which is a blood clot along with inflammation of a segment of vein.
Receiving varicose vein treatment for abnormal veins will significantly improve these symptoms.
Dilated Veins & Capillaries Around Feet & Ankles
Dilated Veins & Capillaries Around Feet & Ankles
Abnormally dilated veins around the ankles and feet referred to by doctors as Corona Phlebectatica (CP).
Corona phlebectatica is a cutaneous sign of chronic venous insufficiency and it is characterized by the presence of abnormally visible cutaneous blood vessel at the ankle with (1) venous cups, (2) blue and red telangiectasis, (3) capillary stasis spots.
This condition is more common than you think. Whenever corona phlebectatica is present, a duplex ultrasound examination should be offered to evaluate the underlying causes. As conditions further progress, varicose veins can also develop on the ankles and feet which appear as twisted, enlarged veins.
Spider Veins
Spider Veins
Spider veins are the finest veins that appear on the surface of the skin and may resemble a spider web and appear as short, seemingly unconnected lines.
Spider veins also known as ‘telangiectasias’ are usually fed by larger ‘reticular veins’ which appear just below the skin. Spider veins may cause aching especially with prolonged standing, other patients have no symptoms at all, and spider veins appear simply as cosmetic. However, it is best to seek advice on spider vein treatments due to risks associated with underlying venous conditions.
Phlebitis & Superficial Thrombophlebitis
Phlebitis & Superficial Thrombophlebitis
Phlebitis, or thrombophlebitis, is an inflammation of a vein that causes a blood clot to form. When it affects a vein close to your skin’s surface, it’s called superficial thrombophlebitis. When it affects a deeper vein, it’s called deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Unlike varicose veins, which occur in your legs, phlebitis can also occur in your arms and other parts of the body. The condition can cause pain and irritation, as it prevents proper circulation.
Superficial thrombophlebitis usually subsides quickly and doesn’t cause any serious health concerns, which is very different to deep vein thrombosis. When the inflammation settles, a persistent darkened area of skin (hyperpigmentation) may remain over the affected vein.
Venous Ulcer
Venous Ulcer
A venous ulcer or varicose ulcer is an open sore that is very slow to heal and can be difficult to treat. Venous ulcers can occur anywhere on the skin but most often occur on the inside of the legs, just above the ankle.Once established, they can last anywhere from a few weeks to years.
It is estimated that 1% of the general population and 5% of patients with varicose veins will develop a chronic venous ulcer during their life. They can sometimes lead to more serious problems so it’s best to seek venous ulcer treatment as soon as possible.
Venous Eczema
Venous Eczema
Venous eczema, also known as stasis dermatitis, varicose eczema or gravitational dermatitis, is an inflammatory condition of the skin seen in association with venous insufficiency also called venous reflux.
Venous eczema is more common in people with varicose veins, but not all patients with venous reflux and venous eczema will have visible varicose veins, as the varicose veins may be ‘hidden.’ Without the correct varicose vein treatments, venous eczema may lead to chronic skin ulceration.
Stasis dermatitis is usually found around the ankles or lower legs and frequently misdiagnosed as cellulitis or simple eczema. Patients have typically struggled with this condition for many years with chronic relapsing.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Deep Vein Thrombosis or DVT occurs most often in the deep veins of the legs and thighs. It’s a condition defined by blood clots, formed when blood thickens and clumps together.
DVT is often connected to long periods of immobilization such as may occur when resting in bed after surgery or during long haul plane flights (economy class syndrome).
Untreated DVT can lead to pulmonary embolism, a serious condition in which the blood clots break, travel through the blood circulation and lodge in the lung, blocking the blood flow. Other complications include Post-Phlebitis Syndrome, characterised by swelling, skin discolouration and pain in the affected leg.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI), also called Venous Reflux, is a condition that results in progressive dilatation and tortuosity of the veins, leading to formation of varicose veins. This is caused by a malfunctioning in the valves, inside each of your leg veins.
The valves regulate the flow of blood in the direction of the heart, each time your calf muscle contracts. But when the valves are leaky, there is venous reflux, causing the blood to pool in that vein. This is what causes bulging veins or varicose veins.
CVI may cause mild symptoms at first. But over time, this condition may interfere with your quality of life and lead to serious complications.
Endovenous Thermal Ablation
Endovenous Thermal Ablation
Endovenous Thermal Ablation, including laser and radiofrequency ablation (two different techniques but with the same goal) is one of the most popular, reliable, and effective vein treatment procedures and is commonly used alongside sclerotherapy for varicose vein treatment.
At Canberra Vein Care, endovenous thermal ablation is a walk-in and walk-out procedure performed under ultrasound guidance and tumescent anaesthesia. This means no hospital admission, general anaesthetic or hospital stay so patients can resume their lives and normal activities immediately after treatment.
Micro-Sclerotherapy & Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy
Micro-Sclerotherapy & Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy
Ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy and micro-sclerotherapy are minimally invasive procedures for treating small varicose veins and spider veins. Sclerotherapy is considered the gold standard treatment for these types of veins due to its safety record and efficacy. It focuses on closing damaged superficial veins by injecting them with a medication called sclerosant.
Here at Canberra Vein Care whilst most sclerotherapy treatments are done using ultrasound imagery (i.e. US guided sclerotherapy), some are performed under direct vision or with assistance from vein visualization technology e.g., AccuVein.
Sclerotherapy can be a treatment on its own for spider veins and small varicose veins or can be used in conjunction with other procedures when required.
Medical Superglue Treatment by VenaSeal
Medical Superglue Treatment by VenaSeal
Glue treatment is one of the newest and most innovative, nonthermal treatment for vein disease and varicose veins.
Using medical-grade superglue, VenaSeal is used to seal off the saphenous vein, which is the most common cause of varicose veins. This treatment is minimally invasive and boasts excellent success rates compared to other treatment options, with most patients describing only minimal discomfort.
Unlike most other varicose vein treatments, it has a unique advantage in that the majority of patients do not have to wear a compression stocking after the treatment.
Since inception of Canberra Vein Care, Dr Melanie Sung has been at the forefront of the use of minimally invasive means of vein treatment in ACT and find it an excellent adjunct technique in certain cases.
Vascular Laser
Vascular Laser
At Canberra vein care, the trusted destination for state-of-the-art laser treatment for spider veins. Our experienced vein doctor utilises cutting-edge laser technology to target and eradicate spider veins.
During the laser treatment, a concentrated beam of light is applied to the spider veins, targeting the pigment in the blood. The laser energy is absorbed by the red blood cells heating up the vessels causing them to coagulate without damaging the skin or surrounding tissues. Over time, the damaged blood vessels are reabsorbed by the body and gradually fade away.
Laser treatment is a non-surgical procedure that involves no incisions or downtime, ensuring a comfortable experience with minimal risks. Laser treatment for spider veins has a high safety profile when performed by our highly trained professionals.
The procedure is well-tolerated by most patients, and adverse effects are generally mild and temporary, such as redness or slight bruising that subsides quickly.
Medical Compression Stockings
Medical Compression Stockings
Compression therapy plays a vital and effective role in managing varicose veins and spider veins. If you’re getting treatment from these conditions, then compression therapy, most likely in the form of stockings, will almost always be a part of your treatment plan
We use medical grade compression stockings. This compression strength is recommended for varicose veins and post-treatment recovery. This type of compression stocking is more intense than the stockings you may receive on an airplane flight or in the hospital. It is important that the right type of stocking and compression strength is used, otherwise the stockings can be ineffective. We encourage all patients to speak with our clinical team to ensure that the appropriate grade of compression is used.
Duplex Ultrasound Scan
Duplex Ultrasound Scan
Before we commence any leg vein treatment, patients receive a duplex venous ultrasound as part of a comprehensive assessment and physical exam. A duplex venous ultrasound allows our vein doctor to see beneath the surface and assess the underlying root cause of your varicose veins or vein incompetence.
By performing a comprehensive scan our doctor is able to ‘map out’ your veins, allowing for individualised treatment of your condition.
Why Choose Canberra Vein Care by The R Clinic
We treat your veins holistically, ensuring we get to the root cause of your varicose veins, treating deeper diseased veins, not just treating what appears on the surface.
We have developed a particular expertise in minimally invasive, non-surgical vein treatment options. We understand that treating veins doesn’t have to involve a big operation or surgery.
Our highly advanced treatments don’t require a hospital stay and can take place right here in our state-of-the-art Canberra clinic, so you can go home or return to work much quicker.
Specialised in Leg Vein Treatment
Specialised in Leg Vein Treatment
We specialise in non-surgical treatments for varicose veins, spider veins as well as other venous conditions caused by venous insufficiency.
We offer endovenous thermal ablation, medical superglue treatment, micro-sclerotherapy, ultrasound guided sclerotherapy, and compression therapy.
Tailored Treatments
Tailored Treatments
As a patient with Canberra Vein Care, you will receive a comprehensive assessment with our vein care doctor including full medical history, physical exam, and duplex venous ultrasound.
Our vein care doctor will provide a detailed assessment of your condition and formulate an individualised treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Advanced & Minimally Invasive Treatments
Advanced & Minimally Invasive Treatments
Our advanced and minimally invasive procedures offer an alternative to surgery to our patients. By offering non-surgical treatment for your varicose veins, drastically reduces waiting times for treatment associated with attending a vascular surgeon.
In addition, the minimal downtime associated with these forms of non-invasive treatments means better outcomes for our patients, allowing you can return to work and your normal activities right away.
Our walk-in walk-out procedures are completed within our comfortable and fully equipped clinic.
Comprehensive After Care
Comprehensive After Care
After your treatment you will have regular follow up reviews with our vein doctor to monitor the progress of the treatment.
Duplex ultrasounds after vein procedures are important to ensure the success of treatments. Ongoing surveillances are important in any vein care, and being a local service, we are proud to be able to provide you a long-term service.
Meet Dr Mel
Devoted mother, passionate pianist and dedicated doctor helping to improve the vein health of Canberrans.
Dr Melanie Sung (Dr Mel) is the Medical Director of Canberra Vein Care specialising in all non-surgical vein treatments. Dr Mel is the first doctor in Australia to be able to introduce the latest radiofrequency device, the VENCLOSE device, for varicose vein treatments to her patients.
Dr Mel is one of a small cohort of females to undertake formal training in phlebology (a branch of medicine specialising in veins) and is a certified sclerotherapist by the Australasian College of Phlebology. Using the latest non-surgical and minimally invasive technology, Dr Mel brings together professional expertise and innovative treatments helping her patients to live healthier lives free from advanced vein disease and conditions including varicose veins, spider veins, lymphoedema, venous eczema and leg ulcers. Using the latest and safest non-surgical and minimally invasive technology, Dr Mel strives to achieve the best outcomes both medically and aesthetically for her patients without the need for surgery, lengthy hospital admission and painful recovery times.
Dr Melanie believes a well-considered treatment plan should be holistic and take into account individual circumstances, listening and working with her patients and offering unbiased advice, Dr Melanie is able to develop bespoke treatment plans individualised to each patient. Dr Mel is a passionate, friendly, and caring medical practitioner who is dedicated to provide outstanding care for her patients. She strives to bring together the latest non-surgical techniques in a friendly and professional environment.
Dr Mel’s time within her private practice has afforded her great insight and understanding into the many challenges patients face when seeking care for the treatment of their vein conditions. Because of this, it has been her goal to establish a more accessible locally based service for Canberrans and those within surrounding communities.
Through Canberra Vein Care Dr Mel offers multiple state-of-art, non-surgical varicose vein treatments tailored to your condition with comprehensive aftercare for her patients.
Qualifications & Affiliations
- Bachelor of Physiotherapy (La Trobe University)
- Bachelor of Medical Science (University of Tasmania)
- Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery Honours (University of Tasmania)
- Fellow of The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (FRACGP)
- Certificate of Clinician Performed Ultrasound with Australasian Society for Ultrasound in Medicine (ASUM)
- Certified Sclerotherapist (The Australasian College of Phlebology)
- Ultrasound in Phlebology (Australian Institute of Ultrasound Training)
- Multiple ultrasound courses in Obstetrics and MSK US (Australian Institute of Ultrasound Training))
Areas of Speciality
- Venous limb ultrasound and all non-surgical varicose and spider vein limb treatments.
Results
Comprehensive Guide to Varicose Vein Treatment
Want to know more about the conditions we treat and more about our advanced non-surgical procedures?
Download our Comprehensive Guide to Varicose Vein Treatment.
FAQs
Have further questions or want to learn more?
Am I suitable for the medical super glue treatment?
In order to determine your suitability for the VenaSeal treatment, you will need to have a consultation with Dr Melanie Sung at The R Clinic. Dr Melanie Sung is an experienced varicose vein doctor in Canberra, offering a full suite of treatment options for varicose veins.
This treatment technique is used for patients where the varicose veins are being fed by a large, relatively straight superficial vein (such as the great or small saphenous vein). The glue is used for the ‘feeding vein’. The varicose veins are then closed by sclerotherapy.
How is the glue treatment different from thermal energy procedures?
The VenaSeal (medical superglue) procedure uses an adhesive to close the superficial vein. This differs from thermal energy procedures that use heat to close the vein.
This intense heat requires numbing medicine, which is injected through multiple needle sticks. The injections may cause pain and bruising after the procedure.
How soon before flying can I have endovenous treatment?
If your flight is longer than 4hrs, it is generally recommended you complete your treatment at least 4 weeks prior to travel. In certain circumstances such as unexpected work travel, we can prescribe a blood thinning agent to be taken prior to travel to reduce your risk of deep vein thrombosis.
How to choose the right compression level?
You should always talk to your doctor to get advice about the right compression level. There are four main levels of compression:
- mild compression, which should be used if you have mild chronic venous insufficiency to support healthy blood flow so your legs can feel lighter
- a moderate compression, which is more effective and is usually recommended once you’re experiencing symptoms of spider or varicose veins
- firm and extra-firm compression, which are typically recommended by a doctor in more serious cases of various venous diseases, including deep vein thrombosis, leg ulcers, and lymphatic edema
How will my doctor decide upon my treatment pathway?
At your first appointment, our vein doctor will carefully assess your medical history and do a thorough physical examination. This is usually followed by a comprehensive venous duplex ultrasound to map out the causes of the problem.
We will then explain the findings and discuss treatment options with you. There is plenty of time for questions. You will get detailed written information to take away and read through again at your convenience.
How will treatment interfere with my work or usual routine?
The main effect on your daily routine is that you are required to wear a special compression stocking for a minimum one week (preferably two weeks) on your treated leg. This is important, especially after any sclerotherapy or endovascular ablation. It is also important to walk regularly as part of your routine after treatment.
You should however avoid strenuous and intense physical exercise and avoid lifting heavy objects for 4 days after treatment. Depending on your occupation, if your work duties involve lifting you may need to reduce some of these tasks for 4-5 days while you recover from your treatment.
You should also avoid long-distance travel (trips longer than 4 hours) for 4 weeks after treatment. This is to minimise the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis.
If I wear compression stocking, do I still need varicose vein treatment?
Using medical compression stockings to support varicose veins is a short-term measure, not a cure. We know that left untreated, varicose veins do not correct themselves and medical intervention by a vein doctor or phlebologist is necessary. However, compression stockings have been shown to relieve symptoms and prevent the worsening of the condition.
Here at The R Clinic, we have a range of non-invasive treatments for varicose veins including endovenous thermal ablation (EVLA & RFA), ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy, and VenaSeal (medical adhesive). Our vein specialist Dr Mel will select the right treatment for you based on the severity and location of the problem vein.
Is it okay to eliminate veins? Don’t I need them?
Varicose veins and spider veins are veins that have stopped working. They are part of the superficial venous system. The superficial venous system carries only a tiny amount of blood back to the heart.
The work of carrying blood back to the heart is done by the deep venous system (the veins running through the leg muscle) and they never become varicosed.
Getting rid of varicose veins doesn’t harm your circulation, it improves it.
Is laser treatment or thermal ablation better than sclerotherapy?
Laser treatment, or endovenous thermal ablation, is another good alternative to the ligation and stripping of varicose veins.
It’s generally safe but can have some side effects like you do with sclerotherapy. However, it’s difficult to do ablation on a varicose vein that has a lot of twists and turns. Your vein care provider will need to consider what your veins look like when deciding on the best treatment for you.
What is the estimated number of treatments I need?
The number of treatments varies from person to person and is determined by the condition of your veins.
When advising your treatment plan, the estimated number of treatments will be given to you in writing along with the estimated cost, this enables you to decide on whether to proceed with treatment and discuss further with our vein doctor.
What veins can be treated with foam sclerotherapy?
Foam sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive treatment that is relatively inexpensive and can be an effective stand-alone treatment if the abnormal varicose veins if they are small. Most commonly however it is a secondary treatment used in addition to endovenous thermal ablation or phlebectomy.
It works well for veins less than 4mm in diameter and poorly for veins greater than 8mm in diameter, with variable results for veins 4-8mm in size. If foam sclerotherapy is performed on veins that are too large it is likely that it will not be effective long-term, and the veins will reopen and become painful, lumpy, stain, and require re-treatment in the future.
Why I should use compression stockings?
Compression stockings (or socks) are a special kind of elastic hosiery that supports healthy blood circulation and helps prevent a variety of health conditions, including:
- chronic venous insufficiency
- spider veins
- varicose veins
The pressure that these stockings put on your ankles and legs compresses the surface arteries and veins, helping the vein valves to function properly and blood to flow back to your heart without obstructions.
Why is an ultrasound scan important prior to vein treatment?
Ultrasound provides an essential ‘road map’ for our vein doctor to understand the exact nature of your vein dysfunction and plan the most appropriate treatment. Often what is seen on the surface is figuratively speaking the “tip of the iceberg”.
We have seen many patients have unsatisfactory outcomes when treated elsewhere without an investigative ultrasound first. Surface sclerotherapy performed without first eliminating venous reflux and ‘feeder vessels’ for example may lead to new vessel growth and sometimes dramatic worsening in appearances.
Will the treated veins come back?
Treated correctly, no, those veins should not come back.
New veins may develop over time but whether this happens at all and how quickly depends on an individual’s genetics, how much standing or sitting you do each day and other factors such as starting the contraceptive pills, becoming pregnant, or obesity. This is the reason we offer ongoing surveillance services to monitor this. The sooner we can pick this up the sooner we can help you to address this.
Have questions or need guidance?
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- 02 5119 3898
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