Post-op Instructions: Ligation and Stripping of Veins

Diet

If you had your surgery performed under general anesthesia, a light meal is recommended for the first day after anesthesia. Otherwise, you may resume a regular diet immediately.

Activity

Use common sense in day to day activities; if it hurts, don't do it. Otherwise there are no restrictions.

Medications

For moderate to severe pain, use prescribed medication as directed. For mild pain, you may try acetaminophen or ibuprofen and use as directed.

Narcotic used for pain management may cause constipation. Take a laxative such as Milk of Magnesia or prune juice if you have not moved your bowels in 2 days.

Resume all medications that you were taking prior to surgery unless instructed otherwise by your surgeon.

Wound Care

Your legs are wrapped with a compressive dressing. This dressing is typically removed in 2 to 3 days. Please follow the instructions of your surgeon.

Keep your legs elevated as much as possible for 2 – 3 days following surgery to reduce pain and swelling.

Once the dressings are removed you may shower or bathe but do not soak in a hot tub or swim for 2 weeks.

When to Contact Your Physician

Call for advice if signs of wound infection such as: redness, swelling, heat, increased tenderness, drainage, red streaks and fever of 101°F or greater.

Your surgeon or their staff can be reached Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM - 5 PM at: (707) 393-4090 or through the hospital operator at (707) 393-4000.

For all problems after hours and on weekends and holidays, call (707) 393-4044 or the emergency department at (707) 393-4800.

For non-urgent issues, you may also email your doctor.