⚠ Draft — pending clinical sign-off by our CMO
Varicose vein treatment: cost, NHS wait & what to expect
Typical self-pay price
£1,800–£3,500
Typical NHS wait
Often not funded on the NHS unless complications are present
Overview
Varicose vein treatment closes or removes swollen, twisted veins — commonly with minimally invasive techniques such as endovenous laser/radiofrequency ablation or foam sclerotherapy.
Why it's done
- Aching, heavy or swollen legs
- Skin changes or ulcers
- Bleeding from a vein
What happens
Most modern treatments are walk-in, walk-out under local anaesthetic, taking under an hour.
Recovery
- Walking is encouraged the same day
- Compression stockings for a week or two
- Most return to normal activities quickly
Risks & things to consider
- Bruising
- Temporary numbness
- Recurrence
- Rarely, blood clots
Alternatives
- Compression stockings
- Lifestyle measures
- Watchful waiting
Questions to ask your provider
- Which technique do you recommend and why?
- Is the price per leg?
- Is an ultrasound assessment included?