Varicose Veins Treatment
Endovenous Laser Ablation / Stripping
Treatment to remove or close varicose veins in the legs.
NHS Average Wait
18.0 weeks
Private Cost
£2,000-£4,000
Private Wait
1-2 weeks
Recovery Time
1-2 weeks
NHS vs Private
| Aspect | NHS | Private |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free at point of use | £2,000-£4,000 |
| Typical Wait | 18 weeks average | 1-2 |
| Choice of Surgeon | Limited | Full choice |
| Choice of Date | Allocated | You choose |
| Private Room | Shared ward | Private room included |
| Follow-up Care | Included | Included |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the NHS wait for varicose veins treatment?
The estimated average NHS waiting time for varicose veins treatment is 18 weeks. Actual waits vary significantly between hospitals — check individual trust pages for current data.
How much does private varicose veins treatment cost in the UK?
Private varicose veins treatment costs typically range from £2,000 to £4,000. Private treatment wait is usually 1-2 weeks. Costs vary by provider and location.
Can I choose which hospital for my varicose veins treatment?
Under the NHS, you have the right to choose which hospital you are referred to for your varicose veins treatment. You can compare waiting times between hospitals to find the shortest wait.
Approximately 30,000 varicose veins treatment procedures are performed annually in England.