The Skinny
Average Recovery
3 weeks
Permanence
Permanent
Application
Minor Surgical Procedure
Surgical
Yes
Cost
$1500 - $3000
The Specifics
What is ligation and stripping for varicose veins?
A ligation and vein stripping is a cosmetic surgery to permanently remove varicose veins from the legs. It is a more invasive treatment option for varicose vein removal, and requires general anesthesia and sutures. A Ligation and stripping will remove the entire affected vein, which may reduce the risk of recurrence.Varicose veins are caused by blood pools from poor blood flow within blood vessels and valve dysfunction, especially in leg veins, and this may be due to chronic venous insufficiency among other causes.
Alternative treatment options that are less invasive and use only local anesthesia include ambulatory phlebectomy, foam sclerotherapy, laser treatments, and RF energy.
What cosmetic concerns does a ligation and stripping procedure treat?
1. Veins: In a ligation and stripping proecdure, the entire varicose vein is removed from the leg through surgical incisions in the groin and knee or ankle.Who is the ideal candidate for a ligation and stripping procedure?
The ideal candidate for a ligation and stripping has large veins and visible varicose veins in the lower legs, and has determined the underlying medical condition with a healthcare provider. Ligation and stripping is not recommended for those with poor circulation, lymphedema, certain skin conditions, AV fistulas, blood clots, or women who are pregnant.What is the average recovery associated with a ligation and stripping procedure?
Most patients experience a few weeks of recovery following ligation and stripping. The majority of candidates return to work after about one week. Compression stockings are worn daily for up to four weeks, legs should remain elevated whenever possible, and long periods of standing should be avoided.What are the potential side effects of a ligation and stripping procedure?
Possible side effects following ligation and stripping include discomfort, bleeding, hematoma formation, swelling, scarring, blood clots, trauma induced spider veins, and nerve injury with sensory disturbances.What can someone expect from the results of a ligation and stripping procedure?
The results of a ligation and stripping are immediate, permanent removal of the entire varicose vein. If the underlying cause contributing to the varicose vein was circulatory and it is not addressed recurrence is possible.What is the average cost of a ligation and stripping procedure?*
Ligation and stripping for varicose veins can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000. The actual cost of ligation and stripping is dependent upon location, healthcare provider, and length and involvement of the plastic surgery.Pros
- Completely Removes Affected Vein
Cons
- Most Invasive
- General Anesthesia
Invasiveness Score
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
What to Expect
Vein ligation and stripping is a minor surgery that permanently removes varicose veins. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after a ligation and stripping procedure.
Before Treatment
- No special measures need to be taken before treatment
- Advised to discontinue use of blood thinning medications 1 week before and after surgery
During Treatment
- General anesthesia
- Incisions made at groin and knee or ankle
- Varicose vein located and ligated at groin
- Wire threaded through vein and out second incision
- Wire pulls out affected vein
- Sutures to close
- Compressive dressings applied
Immediately After Treatment
- Discomfort
- Bruising and swelling
1-4 Weeks After Treatment and Beyond
- Return to work after a few days
- Wear compressive dressings constantly for 1 week
- Wear compressive dressings during the day for an additional week
- Compression therapy may last 4 weeks
- Return to all normal activity after 4 weeks
Result Notes
- Immediate results
- If the circulatory issue that originally caused the varicose veins is not addressed, recurrence is possible
The Takeaway
A ligation and stripping for varicose veins is the most invasive treatment for removal of undesirable bulging, prominent veins, however, it is permanent and completely removes the entirety of the affected vein.
