Should I opt for varicose vein treatment in the UK or abroad?

By

Nov

9

Varicose vein surgery

Varicose vein surgery is available on the NHS but will only be funded for patients who have a medical need for treatment and surgery will not be carried out for solely cosmetic reasons. If your varicose veins are causing you pain, you will probably be offered treatment like varicose vein removal on the NHS, but you can also choose to have private treatment with someone like The Private Clinic. Private treatment is expensive but the waiting list will probably be shorter and facilities are normally more modern and stylish than NHS clinics. You can also choose to go abroad for treatment, as prices are usually much lower than in the UK, but there are risks involved, which are highlighted in greater detail below.

Cosmetic varicose vein treatment

The majority of individuals who have varicose veins don’t require varicose vein treatment for medical reasons, as often they do not cause any pain or discomfort. However, some people may decide to have treatment for cosmetic reasons, which isn’t covered by the NHS in the UK. This may means that patients have to visit a private clinic for the treatment, where the costs are high. In recent years, medical tourism has become very popular, as prices are considerably lower in other countries. Travelling abroad for treatment could save you up to 70 percent and this saving may also include the cost of transport and accommodation, however, there are risks involved with going overseas for treatment.

Tips for travelling abroad

Low prices may be very appealing but travelling abroad for medical or dental treatment carries risks and it is important that you do your research before you go. In other countries, regulation of professionals and clinics may not be as stringent as in the UK and as a result of this, standards of clinical excellence may be lower and there may be problems associated with cross-infection protocol. It is imperative that you visit a doctor with the relevant qualifications and expertise and choose a clinic that has been approved and recommended by other patients. It’s also a good idea to get a complete price breakdown, which includes the cost of any preparatory or follow-up care, as this may require additional trips, which will increase the transport and accommodation costs.