Varicose Vein Treatment: Surgery or a Minimally Invasive Option?

Are Varicose Veins More Than Just a Cosmetic Issue?

Varicose veins are often seen as a cosmetic concern, but they can also be a sign of underlying vein disease. If your legs feel heavy, achy, or swollen, or you experience cramps and restlessness at night, you may be dealing with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)—a condition that can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

While vein stripping surgery was once the standard treatment, modern minimally invasive procedures—like Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) and Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)—offer effective results with less pain and downtime. If you’re considering varicose vein treatment, it’s important to understand your options and which one is best for you. and which one is best for you.

Should You Get Surgery for Varicose Veins?

For years, vein stripping surgery was the primary treatment for severe varicose veins. This procedure requires general anesthesia and involves making incisions to remove the affected vein. While effective, it comes with a longer recovery and a higher risk of complications compared to newer techniques.

Today, most specialists recommend less invasive treatments like Endovenous Ablation (EVLA or RFA), which close diseased veins rather than surgically removing them. These methods allow for faster healing, minimal discomfort, and high success rates.

Comparing Vein Stripping Surgery and Endovenous Ablation

Treatment	Vein Stripping Surgery	Endovenous Ablation (EVLA/RFA)
Procedure Type	Surgical	Minimally Invasive
Recovery Time	4-6 weeks	1-2 weeks
Anesthesia	General Anesthesia	Local Anesthesia
Hospital Stay	1-2 days	Outpatient (same-day discharge)
How It Works	Removes the vein through incisions	Closes vein using laser or radiofrequency energy
Pain & Bruising	More severe	Mild

Unlike vein stripping, endovenous ablation allows for quick recovery with minimal discomfort, making it a preferred option for most patients.

Who Should Consider Treatment for Varicose Veins?

Treatment may be right for you if you experience:

• Leg pain, swelling, or fatigue after standing for long periods
• Visible, bulging veins that cause discomfort
• Skin discoloration or ulcers near the ankles
• A burning or itching sensation around varicose veins

However, surgery or ablation may not be suitable if you have:

• Extremely large, complex veins that require different interventions
• A history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Severe circulation issues that affect healing

If these symptoms sound familiar, now is the time to explore your varicose vein treatment options.

What to Expect After Treatment?

One of the biggest advantages of choosing endovenous ablation over surgery is the faster recovery.

• After Vein Stripping Surgery: Patients typically require 4-6 weeks to heal, with swelling, bruising, and discomfort.
• After Endovenous Ablation: Most people return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks, with only mild soreness.

Minimally invasive treatments close the damaged veins, and the body naturally reabsorbs them over time, improving circulation and reducing symptoms.

Is Varicose Vein Treatment Covered by Insurance?

Most insurance plans cover varicose vein treatment if it is considered medically necessary rather than purely cosmetic. You may qualify for coverage if you experience:

• Leg pain, swelling, or heaviness that impacts daily life
• Ulcers, skin changes, or venous insufficiency
• Difficulty standing for extended periods due to discomfort

To verify coverage details, check with your provider regarding:

• Pre-authorization requirements
• In-network vein specialists
• Potential out-of-pocket costs

Choosing the Right Treatment for Your Veins

Before making a decision, consider:

• Do my varicose veins cause pain or discomfort?
• Do I want a minimally invasive procedure with faster recovery?
• Have I explored all my treatment options, including laser and radiofrequency ablation?

Choosing the right varicose vein treatment depends on your symptoms, preferences, and lifestyle.

For more information on vein treatments, visit our blog section.