Contact number: 020 7806 4060
What is laser varicose vein treatment (EVLT)?
EVLT uses a thin laser fibre inserted into the affected vein under ultrasound guidance. The laser delivers targeted heat energy that seals the vein wall, causing it to collapse and be gradually absorbed by the body. Blood is naturally rerouted through healthy veins. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, takes around 45 to 60 minutes, and patients can walk out the same day with no general anaesthetic required.
EVLT is the NICE-recommended gold standard treatment for varicose veins and has a success rate of over 95%. It can be used to treat the great and small saphenous veins and is suitable for most patients with symptomatic varicose veins. Our vascular surgeons at our hospital in St John’s Wood (NW8) treat patients from across London.
Who is laser varicose vein treatment suitable for?
EVLT may be suitable if you:
- Have varicose veins causing pain, aching, swelling, skin changes or heaviness in the legs
- Have visible, bulging varicose veins affecting your confidence or comfort
- Have had an ultrasound scan confirming venous reflux in the saphenous vein
- Have not found adequate relief from compression stockings or other conservative measures
An initial consultation including a duplex ultrasound scan of the leg veins is required before treatment can be planned. Your consultant will use the scan results to confirm whether EVLT is appropriate and which veins require treatment.
Consultants who treat Varicose Veins in London
How Much Does Laser Varicose Vein Treatment Cost?
from £2,675*
The cost of private laser varicose vein treatment starts from £2,675* at St John & St Elizabeth’s Hospital.
*The price shown is an estimated guide to the hospital charges associated with your treatment from admission to discharge. Your final cost may vary depending on your individual clinical needs, the procedure performed, any additional treatments required, the type of implant/prosthesis used (where applicable), and the length of stay. This guide price excludes consultation fees, diagnostic tests, and professional fees charged separately by your surgeon, anaesthetist, and any other specialists involved in your care.
|
Varicose vein treatment (single vein, one side) |
£2,675* |
|---|---|
|
Varicose vein treatment (single vein, two sides) |
£3,150* |
|
Varicose vein treatment (multiple veins, one side) |
£2,875* |
|
Varicose vein treatment (multiple veins, two sides) |
£3,350* |
How to pay for your treatment
If you’re… paying for yourself
Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.
For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.
If you’re… insured
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal private health insurance policy, or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your care from your initial consultation through to treatment, surgery and aftercare such as physiotherapy. Not all private health insurance plans cover the same things. It’s very important to check exactly what you are covered for with your insurance provider.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Vein Removal
- St John’s Wood station (Jubilee Line) is just a 5-minute walk from the hospital.
- Finchley Road (NW3) and Kilburn stations (NW6) on the Jubilee Line provide excellent connections.
By Bus:
- Wellington Road: Routes 13, 46, and 113 stop near St John’s Wood Underground Station, just a short walk from the hospital.
- Circus Road: Routes 46 and 187 stop close to the hospital’s Circus Road entrance.
- Abbey Road: Routes 139 and 189 stop near the junction where Grove End Road becomes Abbey Road, providing easy access.
Major Roads:
If you’re travelling from NW3 or NW6, main routes such as Finchley Road or Kilburn High Road offer a direct approach to the hospital.
Our location ensures convenient travel for patients from across London, particularly those in NW8, NW3, and NW6 postcodes.
The cost of private varicose vein treatment depends on the number of veins and sites you have surgery on.
The cost of private varicose vein treatment (single vein, one side) is £2,675 & (single vein, two sides) is £3,150 at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital.
The cost of private varicose vein treatment (multiple veins, one side) is £2,875 & (multiple veins, two sides) is £3,350 at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital.
Your journey starts with a consultation with one of our vascular specialists. During this session, you’ll discuss your symptoms, medical history, and treatment expectations. Diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound scans, may be performed to assess the extent of your varicose veins. These tests are essential for creating a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Based on your diagnostic results, we’ll provide you with preparation guidelines. These may include advice on medications, hydration, and what to wear on the day of your procedure. Our goal is to ensure you feel fully prepared and confident ahead of your treatment.
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia to minimise discomfort. A small incision is made, and a thin laser fibre is inserted into the varicose vein. The laser delivers targeted energy to the vein walls, causing them to collapse and seal shut. Blood flow is redirected to healthier veins, and the treated vein is gradually absorbed by the body.
Recovery is typically quick, with most patients able to walk immediately after the procedure and return to normal activities within a day. You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions, including guidance on wearing compression garments and resuming physical activities, to support healing and prevent recurrence.
Yes, follow-up appointments are an integral part of your care. These allow us to monitor your recovery and ensure the treatment has been successful. Our specialists will also provide advice on maintaining healthy veins and reducing the risk of future varicose veins.