Varicose Veins

Reference Surgery for varicose veins includes tying off (ligation) and removing (stripping) larger veins. Surgery may be used to treat varicose veins if:

• The varicose veins have not responded to home treatment and your symptoms are bothering you.
• You are concerned about the way varicose veins look, and laser treatment, radiofrequency treatment, or Reference sclerotherapy Opens New Window is not likely to improve their appearance to your satisfaction.

Opens New Window Varicose Veins: Should I Have a Surgical Procedure? Opens New Window

Less invasive procedures are another option to treat varicose veins. Less invasive procedures are more commonly done than surgery. These procedures can give good results with less risk than surgery. These procedures include Reference laser treatment (including endovenous laser); Reference phlebectomy, or stab avulsion; and Reference radiofrequency treatment.

What to think about

Some people may want to have surgery to improve how their legs look, even though their varicose veins are not causing other problems. Surgery may be appropriate in some cases as long as you don't have other health problems that make the treatment risky.

Keep in mind that surgery for varicose veins done only for cosmetic reasons (that is, not medically necessary) is usually not covered by insurance.

In some cases, a combination of surgery and sclerotherapy may be used to treat varicose veins. Sclerotherapy is a nonsurgical procedure in which a chemical is injected into the vein, causing the vein to close off.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.