With all the improvements in keyhole techniques, Surgery for varicose veins is hardly ever required now.

Any surgical operation, even if performed as a day case, requires admission to a surgical unit, a general anaesthetic, a more traumatic surgical procedure and a period of recovery in hospital as an inpatient.

If you have seen a surgeon who has advised a surgical operation for your veins, it’s very likely that you haven’t received the best advice available. UK guidelines clearly recommend the use of laser ablation and foam sclerotherapy in preference to an operation. We no longer advise or perform traditional surgical procedures in the management of varicose veins.