Laser vein removal cost in London – What to expect & how much you’ll pay
If you’re dealing with varicose veins or spider veins and looking for a modern, effective treatment method, you’ve probably already considered laser vein removal. Over time, this procedure has become extremely popular, especially thanks to its quick recovery period and the fact that it’s minimally invasive, so it doesn’t involve traditional surgery.
To help you better understand what this treatment involves and what costs you can expect, we’ve prepared a complete guide that explains the process and the factors that influence the prices, so you can make an informed decision for your venous health.
Table of contents
- Understanding laser vein removal
- How much does laser vein removal cost in London?
- Factors that affect the cost of laser vein removal
- Is laser vein removal worth the cost?
- Why choose Dr. Omar – The Veins Doctor
- Book a consultation for laser vein removal in London
Understanding laser vein removal
Laser vein removal is, in medical terms, known as Endovenous Laser Ablation of the veins (EVLA). Unlike traditional surgery, which involved tying off and stripping the affected veins, this method uses laser energy to heat the walls of the varicose veins from the inside, prompting the body to naturally absorb the damaged tissue.
Here’s how the procedure typically unfolds:
- A small amount of local anaesthetic is administered in the area above the affected vein.
- A fine needle is inserted into the vein, through which a thin laser fibre is guided to the problematic area.
- The laser is then activated and gradually withdrawn, treating the entire affected section. Patients may notice a distinctive “burnt” smell or taste, but they do not feel pain.
- Once the treatment is complete, the needle is removed, the area is bandaged, and the patient can go home the same day.
The procedure generally takes 20–30 minutes per leg and can be combined with foam sclerotherapy or avulsions, followed by the application of a compression stocking. If you live in the UK and are wondering how much does laser vein removal cost in London, keep reading. Below, we’ll cover typical price ranges and the factors that may influence final costs.
How much does laser vein removal cost in London?
Before talking about prices, it’s important to understand that they vary depending on the type of venous problem: varicose veins or spider veins. Let’s take them one by one.
Varicose veins
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that are often visible on the legs and can cause discomfort, pain, or a feeling of heaviness. They indicate a problem with blood circulation and require careful assessment. In London, the cost of EVLA treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case and the chosen clinic:
- One leg: between £1,590 and £2,550
- Both legs: between £2,290 and £4,515
Spider veins
Spider veins (also called thread veins) are fine red, blue, or purple vessels visible under the skin. While they don’t pose a major medical risk, they can affect self-confidence. They may appear on the face, legs, or other parts of the body. Spider veins are generally treated with IPL (Intense Pulsed Light). IPL emits pulses of light that are absorbed by the dilated vessels, causing them to shrink and gradually fade.
Usually, several sessions are needed, depending on the size and density of the treated area. The average prices in London vary depending on the clinic, number of sessions, and the area treated. The average prices in London, for example, are approx. £150 per session for the face and approx. £180 per session for the face and neck.
In addition to the cost of the actual treatment, you’ll also need to factor in the initial consultation and duplex scan (a detailed Doppler ultrasound that allows the doctor to visualise the venous system). During the first consultation, the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and any questions about the treatment are discussed. The next step involves the Doppler ultrasound, which is very important for an accurate diagnosis in the case of varicose veins. Some clinics offer packages that include the consultation and duplex scan for around £250 on average.
| Feature | EVLA (Varicose Veins) | IPL (Spider Veins) |
|---|---|---|
| Type of veins treated | Varicose veins | Spider veins |
| Technology | Endovenous laser | Intense Pulsed Light |
| Invasiveness | Minimally invasive (with local anaesthetic) | Non-invasive |
| Treatment duration | 20–30 min / leg | 15–30 min / session |
| Number of sessions | Usually 1 | 2–4 or more, depending on the case |
| Results | Long-lasting, treats the root cause | Gradual aesthetic improvement |
| Approximate cost | £1,590–£4,515 | £150–£180 / session |
Factors that affect the cost of laser vein removal
The costs of treatments such as laser vein treatment in London are not fixed, since the procedure involves several steps. The main factors you need to consider include:
- The type of veins treated – it is important to distinguish between varicose veins and spider veins, as the treatments, and therefore the prices, differ.
- Technology used – different technologies come with different costs. EVLA is for varicose veins and requires a different approach compared to IPL, which is used for spider veins.
- Clinic and doctor’s experience – Each clinic has its own price list, sometimes published, sometimes not. Costs can also differ depending on how new and advanced the equipment is. Additionally, the practitioner performing the procedure matters: in some clinics, spider vein treatments (IPL) may be carried out by a nurse or practitioner at a lower price, while in more complex cases, a doctor will perform it at a higher cost. Vein specialists with greater experience may also have different pricing ranges.
- Treatment area and number of sessions needed – for both spider veins and varicose veins, costs rise in proportion to the size of the affected area. Simpler cases requiring fewer sessions will cost less compared to more complex ones.
- Follow-up and aftercare – some clinics include post-treatment consultations (approx. £100).
Is laser vein removal worth the cost?
The costs may seem high, especially if the treatment is not covered by insurance. Sometimes, private health insurance may cover varicose vein treatment if the condition is deemed medically necessary. In other cases, patients need to pay out of pocket.
However, it is important to view this cost as an investment in your health. Ignoring varicose veins can have serious consequences: pain, venous ulcers, unpleasant odour, reduced mobility, and in complicated cases, an increased risk of thrombophlebitis and pulmonary embolism. Although it may be more expensive, the investment is long-term, and, most importantly, it is in your health and well-being.
Benefits of laser vein removal
On the positive side, laser vein removal offers numerous benefits:
- Fast and painless – EVLA is performed under local anaesthetic, and patients can return to their daily activities immediately afterwards.
- Long-lasting results – it is a procedure designed to eliminate venous problems and improve quality of life.
- Improved aesthetics and confidence – yes, varicose veins and spider veins can make us feel self-conscious, especially in summer, at the beach, or simply when wearing skirts or lighter clothing that reveals veins. After treatment, these worries can be left behind and you can enjoy your smooth skin again.
- No recovery time – hospitalisation is not required.
Patients often find that the benefits of laser vein removal far outweigh the cost. See some of the results achieved by patients of Dr. Omar Abu Bakr.
Why choose Dr. Omar – The Veins Doctor
Why choose Dr. Omar – The Veins Doctor
When it comes to finding the best laser vein clinic in London, many patients choose Dr Omar – The Veins Doctor, a Consultant Venous Surgeon & Phlebologist with over 18 years of experience. He offers minimally invasive treatments for varicose and spider veins, including EVLA, foam sclerotherapy, and microsclerotherapy, in modern private clinics in Harley Street and South London.
The treatment process begins with a detailed consultation and a complete Doppler ultrasound scan, which takes about an hour. Based on the results, Dr. Omar designs a personalised plan for each patient. The success rate of his treatments is 99%.
Here’s what Dr. Omar’s patients say:
- Dr Omar explained what would happen today plus what causes varicose veins… He was very thorough and considerate.
- Very pleasant doctor, lovely manner and very reassuring.
- Kind, efficient, experienced surgeon. Thank you for your expertise.
For those seeking affordable vein treatment in London, transparency regarding private vein clinic prices is very important. Dr. Omar knows that, and he always provides a clear estimate before any intervention. Find out from Dr. Omar himself what the first step for a successful vein treatment is in the video below:
Book a consultation for laser vein removal in London
Are you ready to find out the exact laser vein removal cost for your case?
Book a private consultation with Dr. Omar – The Veins Doctor and receive a personalised evaluation and a complete treatment plan.
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