How Many Days Do I Need in Korea for Varicose Vein Treatment?

How long should I stay in Korea for varicose vein treatment?

The treatment itself fits into one day. You are admitted, treated under local anesthesia without an incision, monitored while you walk, and discharged the same day. But a trip abroad has other parts: getting there, the ultrasound that decides your plan, recovery before a long flight, and sometimes a short check. Building in a few extra days makes the experience calmer and safer.

Your coordinator will suggest a schedule once they know your symptoms and travel distance. Final timing is confirmed after the ultrasound.

What needs to fit into the trip?

1. Arrival and rest

Long flights leave your legs tired and swollen. A rest day before your appointment is wise, especially if you cross several time zones. An airport pick-up can take you straight to your hotel.

2. First visit and ultrasound

The doctor examines you and maps your veins with duplex ultrasound. This decides which veins need treatment and which methods are best. See first visit and ultrasound fee .

3. Treatment day

The day follows the 10-step treatment process : examination, admission, ECG and vein marking, treatment, rounds, monitored walking, aftercare training, choosing your next visit date, and discharge. When possible and appropriate, overseas patients may be able to have the ultrasound and treatment close together; ask your coordinator.

4. Walking and recovery

After treatment, walking is encouraged. LEDAS advises light walking for 2–4 weeks. The first few days in Busan let you settle into this routine near the clinic, in case you have questions.

5. Extra sessions or a check, if planned

Some patients need additional sclerotherapy for smaller veins, or the doctor may want to see you before you fly. Ask about this when you receive your plan.

Sample plans

These are examples only. Your doctor's advice comes first.

• Shorter trip: arrival day → first visit with ultrasound → treatment → several days of walking and rest in Busan → any planned check → flight home.
• Longer trip: suits both legs, more complex reflux, recurrence after earlier surgery, or a long-haul flight. Add extra days for any further sessions and recovery.

What makes the trip longer?

• Both legs or many affected veins. See treating both legs .
• Recurrent veins after earlier surgery, which can be more complex. See re-operation clinic .
• A very long flight home , which increases blood clot risk from sitting.
• Other health conditions , such as a history of clots or heart disease.
• Clinic closures : LEDAS is closed on Sundays and every second Wednesday and Saturday. Hours are usually 9:00–18:00 with lunch 12:30–13:30; confirm by phone. See opening hours .

When can I fly home?

Not on treatment day. The safe timing depends on what was treated, your health and how long the flight is, so ask your doctor. Wear compression stockings, choose an aisle seat, walk and drink water during the flight. Read flying after vein treatment .

Tips for booking

• Agree on dates with your coordinator before buying tickets.
• Choose a changeable return ticket.
• Book a hotel near Seomyeon with flexible cancellation. See hotel and flight booking help .
• Check visa rules early. See medical visa .

Building blocks of your stay

Trip length – frequently asked questions