Everything You Need to Know
Varicose veins are caused by weakened or damaged valves in the veins, leading to blood pooling and vein enlargement. Symptoms include leg pain, swelling, and fatigue, which can progress to more serious health issues if untreated. Laser treatment for varicose veins targets these problematic veins with laser energy, closing them off and allowing blood to reroute through healthier veins. This process offers an effective treatment with the benefits of no hospital stay, quick recovery, and significant symptom relief.
Before Treatment
Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with a thorough consultation with our vascular specialists. This meeting provides an opportunity to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and treatment expectations. Our team will outline the laser treatment process, ensuring you understand the procedure and its benefits fully.
Diagnostic Assessments
Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. You may undergo diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound scans, to assess the severity and extent of your varicose veins. These assessments are crucial in designing a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Preparing for Your Treatment
Based on your diagnostic results, we will guide you through preparing for the laser treatment. Preparation may include guidelines on medication, hydration, and what to wear on the day of the procedure, ensuring you are fully prepared for a successful treatment experience.
During Treatment
The laser treatment for varicose veins is performed under local anaesthesia, minimising discomfort. The procedure includes:
Laser Procedure
A small incision is made in the skin, through which a thin laser fibre is inserted into the varicose vein. The laser is activated, delivering precise energy to the vein walls, causing them to collapse and seal shut. This process reroutes the blood to healthier veins, with the treated vein eventually being absorbed by the body.
Recovery
Recovery time is minimal, with most patients able to walk immediately after the procedure and return to normal activities within a day. You will be given specific aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing and results.
After Treatment
Recovery and ongoing care are integral to achieving the best outcomes. Post-treatment support includes:
- Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure the success of the treatment.
- Compression garment guidance to support recovery.
- Advice on resuming activities and preventing future varicose veins.
from £2,435*
The price shown includes all costs associated with your treatment, from admission to discharge. Doesn’t include surgeon or anaesthetist fee. Our hospital fee is guaranteed at the price quoted and valid for one month from the date issued, subject to pre-assessment.
| £2,435 |
| £2,860 |
| £2,610 |
| £3,035 |
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.
Initial Consultation
Discuss your condition and explore treatment options with our specialists.
Personalised Treatment Plan
Receive a custom treatment plan, including detailed preparation and recovery guidelines.
Diagnostic Assessments
Undergo comprehensive assessments to confirm your varicose veins’ severity and plan your treatment.
The Procedure
Experience the advanced laser treatment designed to minimise discomfort and downtime.
Aftercare and Monitoring
Benefit from our dedicated follow-up care, ensuring a smooth recovery and lasting results.
Top Tips
- Follow all pre- and post-treatment instructions provided by your care team.
- Wear compression stockings as recommended to support vein health.
- Stay active and maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your legs.
- Elevate your legs when resting to improve circulation.