Varicose Vein Removal
Varicose veins are twisted, swollen veins that become visible under the surface of the skin. This common form of vein disease, or Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI), often appears in the legs and can cause pain and discomfort as well as having an impact on other aspects of your health and wellbeing.
At UK Vein Clinic, we offer minimally invasive varicose vein removal surgery, conducted by the UK’s leading vascular surgeons, consultants and clinical nursing staff.
How are varicose veins removed?
We offer two main treatments for removing varicose veins, Radiofrequency Ablation and Foam Sclerotherapy. Both of these treatments are minimally invasive and are performed at one of our clinics under local anaesthetic, so you won’t require any long hospital visits or invasive surgeries. Your first step will be to get a diagnostic assessment and Duplex Ultrasound to determine the cause of your varicose veins and the best treatment option for you.
A small incision is made and a catheter is guided to the vein. A probe is then inserted into the catheter and radiofrequency energy is sent through to heat up the walls of the varicose vein, causing it to collapse and seal shut. The blood is then redirected to a healthy vein while the body reabsorbs the blocked vein, effectively removing it.
Procedure time: Around 30 - 45 minutes per session
A harmless foam is injected directly into the varicose vein, scarring it and blocking off the blood flow, causing the vein to collapse. With the vein sealed closed, the blood is then redirected to a healthy vein while the body reabsorbs the closed vein. You may require several sessions before the varicose veins are fully removed.
Procedure time: Around 30 - 45 minutes per session
Radiofrequency Ablation and Foam Sclerotherpy are the most effective and least invasive treatments for varicose veins. Other methods such as endovenous laser treatment or vein stripping often result in longer recovery times and increased postoperative pain. Our doctors and vascular surgeons choose to only offer what they perceive to be the most effective and safest forms of varicose vein removal.
To learn more about getting started with your treatment journey, take a look at our treatment pricing below:
Is varicose vein removal covered by insurance?
Varicose vein treatment is often covered by private medical insurance (PMI) if the patient is experiencing pain, discomfort or circulatory issues caused by their varicose veins. It is unlikely that PMI will cover the costs of varicose vein removal if the treatment is only for cosmetic reasons.
At UK Vein Clinic, we have partnered with a number of insurance partners to offer easier access to our varicose vein removal services, however it is still possible to get treatment from us using other PMI providers. Find out more about varicose vein removal and insurance here.
How long is recovery after varicose vein removal?
As both of our varicose vein treatments are minimally-invasive, the recovery time is relatively short. The treated area may feel sore or numb for the first 24 hours, however most patients will be able to resume normal activities straight after their treatment. You will be asked to wear compression stocking for up to 2 weeks post-treatment to aid recovery, and should avoid anything too strenuous during that time. You’ll also be seen by our expert aftercare team who will give you all the advice you need following your treatment.
Where to get your varicose veins removed
We are proud to offer varicose vein removal treatments throughout the UK. Book your varicose vein removal at a clinic near you and benefit from the experience and expertise of the UK’s leading vascular surgeons.
Meet our varicose vein removal specialists
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get varicose veins removed on the NHS?
Depending on the severity and symptoms of your varicose veins, you may be able to get them removed on the NHS, although this will likely involve long wait times. However, if you are looking to get your varicose veins removed due to cosmetic reasons, or your pain and discomfort is not severe enough, the NHS will not provide treatment. Find out more about eligibility criteria for NHS treatment here.
How many varicose veins can be removed?
There is no limit on the number of varicose veins that can be removed, however if multiple veins need removing then it is likely that more than one treatment session will be required.
Can varicose veins be removed without surgery?
Although Foam Sclerotherapy and Radiofrequency Ablation are minimally invasive, they are still technically considered to be a form of surgery. However, as the procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic and the entire procedure is minimally invasive, this isn’t what you would normally consider to be ‘surgery’.
Does it hurt to have varicose veins removed?
Varicose vein removal via Foam Sclerotherapy or Radiofrequency Ablation is not considered to be painful. The procedure itself is carried out under local anaesthetic and you should only expect some mild discomfort for a few days after the procedure.
Is it dangerous to have varicose veins removed?
No, it is not dangerous to have your varicose veins removed via Foam Sclerotherapy or Radiofrequency Ablation. These are safe, approved methods of varicose vein treatment with minimal side effects.
Does removing varicose veins improve circulation?
Removing varicose veins can help to improve overall blood circulation as blood flow is not longer slowed down by a damaged vein and is redirected to a healthy vein.
Can you fly after having varicose veins removed?
We advise our patients to avoid long-haul flights for around 4 - 6 weeks post treatment.
Do varicose veins come back after removal?
While it is possible for varicose veins to come back after being removed, this is incredibly unlikely.
How many times can you have varicose veins removed?
You may require more than one session of your chosen treatment before your varicose veins are fully removed. Although the treatment is usually permanent, there is a chance that once removed, your varicose veins will come back again, and you may be able to have them removed again but will need a diagnostic assessment first to ensure you are eligible for repeat treatment.
Call us on 0208 1873999
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