Thread Vein Removal Cost

What causes Thread Veins

Thread veins, or spider veins, are generally considered to be a benign condition. The are most often found on the face and legs and are where blood has pooled in capillaries. These veins can become increasingly visible as people age and the skin becomes much thinner. There are many different causes of thread veins including, alcohol, smoking, pregnancy, exposure to extreme temperatures and genetics. In some cases of thread veins, no cause can be found at all. Whilst thread veins are not harmful some sufferers can find them unsightly and wish to have them removed. As removal of thread veins is considered to be a cosmetic procedure rather than a medical one it is not available on the NHS in the UK.

Laser Treatment

Laser treatment to remove thread veins works by using a laser which can be precisely targeted to destroy the veins. Prior to the laser, being applied the area is treated with a local anaesthetic. Once the veins have been treated by the laser the veins collapse and are then absorbed by the body's natural processes. To fully remove a vein most patients require two to three treatments with the treatments being two to three months apart. Costs vary between patients dependant upon the amount of thread veins to be treated. For a single vein, it typically costs in the region of £50 to £80, whereas treatment of a full face can start from around £180. Most clinics offer loyalty discounts if a course of three treatments is booked.

Microwave Treatment

Another form of treatment to remove thread veins is microwave treatment. This procedure works by inserting a tiny needle into the vein and using heat to destroy the vein. After this, the body will begin to absorb the destroyed vein naturally. The cost of microwave treatment varies between clinics and how large the area of thread veins to be treated is. Typical prices range from £150 to £250 per session with a course of two to four sessions required to remove the veins fully. Again many clinics offer discounts if a course of sessions is booked.

Microsclerotherapy

Microsclerotherapy is used most often to treat thread veins on the leg. It also destroys the vein but works by injecting a chemical into the vein which cause the vein to collapse in on itself and then gradually be absorbed. As with other thread vein treatments a course of microsclerotherapy will be required to fully remove the vein. As thread veins on the leg are often larger than on the face up to six sessions can be required. The typical cost of microsclerotherapy is between £150 and £250 for an individual session. On visiting a clinic, patients will be advised which method is most suited to their requirements.