Varicose Vein Removal Surgery Kingsbridge Private Hospital Belfast

General Surgery

Are you troubled with painful, itchy leg veins or simply fed up with their unsightly appearance? At Kingsbridge Private Hospital our team of Vascular Surgeons are here to help.

Varicose vein surgery can remove varicose veins which are enlarged and twisted veins in the leg affecting both men and women. They tend to run in families and can become worse during pregnancy.

People who stand a lot in their daily life or are required to stand for long periods during work can also develop varicose veins.

Research shows that varicose veins affect about one third of people at some point in their life.

15-20% of adults in the UK have bulging varicose veins while 15-20% have hidden varicose veins. In most cases there is no obvious cause and the condition is rarely associated with any serious illness. There is thought to be a genetic tendency involving some degree of inherited weakness in the vein wall.

There are various factors which are often thought to be associated with varicose veins.

Varicose Veins: The Risk Factors

Getting older - valves get weaker
Being female - possibly because hormones can relax the vein walls
Pregnancy - increases amount of blood in body, but decreases flow from the legs
Being overweight - puts more pressure on the veins
Long periods of time standing - veins have to work harder against gravity
Sitting for long periods - leads to poor circulation

The Causes Of Varicose Veins

Varicose veins can develop when the small valves inside the veins stop functioning properly. In a healthy vein, blood flows smoothly to the heart.

There are two main types of veins in your legs:

Superficial veins - these lie under your skin and include the long and short saphenous veins
Deep veins

When blood doesn't flow properly from the superficial veins to your deep veins, pressure can build up and varicose veins can occur, this is due to valves in the leg or pelvic veins not working properly.

Valves are designed to let blood flow one way. The blood is prevented from flowing backwards by a series of tiny valves that open and close to let blood through. However, if the valves are damaged or weakened then blood may not flow correctly and can collect in the vein, eventually causing it to be swollen and enlarged (varicose) becoming visible.

Managing Varicose Veins Without Surgery

The following activities can help ease the symptoms of varicose veins:

Avoid standing or sitting still for long periods, move around every half hour or so
Regular exercise can improve the circulation and help lose weight
Raise the lower leg on pillows or a stool while resting
Consider compression stockings after medical advice

Whilst these activities may help some patients and ease their condition, varicose veins will not go away without treatment and symptomatic varicose veins tend to get worse with time. Possible complications can include inflammation (thrombophlebitis), swelling, skin discolouration and bleeding.

It has been proven that earlier treatment of symptomatic varicose veins produces a better clinical outcome and cosmetic results.

Symptoms Of Varicose Veins

Symptoms of varicose veins can vary from person to person. Some people don't have any symptoms at all.

If you do have symptoms, they may include:

Aching, heavy, uncomfortable or throbbing legs
Itchy or restless legs
Swollen feet and ankles
Lumps or bulging veins
Muscle cramp in the legs

These symptoms may be caused by problems other than varicose veins. A GP can help you diagnose if you have varicose veins based on the symptoms presented. At Kingsbridge Hospital we provide same day appointments at our Private GP Service.

Complications Caused By Varicose Veins

Complications of varicose veins include the following:

Thrombophlebitis – your superficial veins can become painful and red due to inflammation or a blockage in your veins
Bleeding – your varicose veins can bleed if you cut or bump your leg
Varicose eczema – your skin can become brown or purple which can often become permanent
Venous ulcers – you can get ulcers when fluid leaks out of the varicose vein into the surrounding tissue

How Are Varicose Veins Diagnosed?

Varicose veins are easy to see in your leg. However, to work out the position and extent of any valve damage, your doctor at Kingsbridge Private Hospital may perform the following tests.

A Doppler test - This is an ultrasound technique that uses sound waves to produce an image of the inside of your leg. It will give your doctor information about the direction of blood flow in your vein and whether your valves are working properly.

An ultrasound scan (duplex) - This will allow your doctor to examine your deep veins in detail.

Types Of Varicose Veins

Telangiectasia varicose veins - Telangiectasia varicose veins are commonly known as thread veins or spider veins, are small clusters of blue or red veins that sometimes appear on your face or legs. They are harmless and, unlike trunk varicose veins, do not bulge underneath the surface of the skin. You may wish to have them treated to improve the cosmetic appearance of the area affected.

Trunk varicose veins - Trunk varicose veins are near to the surface of the skin and are thick and knobbly. They are usually visible, often quite long and can look unpleasant.

Reticular varicose veins - Reticular varicose veins are red and are sometimes grouped close together in a network

Do You Need Treatment For Varicose Veins?

In the past varicose veins were only treated if they were really causing problems. Since 2013, however, new guidance from NICE says that all patients suffering from varicose veins and who are experiencing discomfort (itching, swelling, aching, heaviness) or visual signs (pigmentation, eczema, leg ulcers) should be referred to a vascular consultant.

Varicose veins can not only be painful but for many men and women, pronounced varicose veins can affect confidence.

Varicose veins treatment is usually performed under a general anaesthetic. Varicose vein surgery usually takes between twenty minutes and two and a half hours.

If your varicose veins don't cause you any discomfort, you may decide not to have any treatment. If your veins do cause discomfort or if you want treatment for cosmetic reasons, then our surgeons at Kingsbridge Private Hospital offer the latest techniques in varicose veins treatment.

During your consultation, all aspects of surgery will be discussed with you and you can rest assured that any concerns or questions you have will be answered.

How Are Varicose Veins Treated?

If your varicose veins don't cause you any discomfort, you may decide not to have any treatment. However, if your veins do cause you discomfort or if you want treatment for cosmetic reasons then our surgeons at Kingsbridge Private Hospital offer the latest techniques in varicose veins treatment.

Pathway 1 - Non-Surgical Treatment for Varicose Veins

There are a number of modern techniques used to treat varicose veins. This involves the closure of the veins using injected foam or applied heat energy through a small skin incision. These techniques have the advantage in that they can be carried out under local anaesthetic and rarely require overnight stay. Most patients will be able to walk immediately afterwards and can resume normal activities in 1 to 2 days.

These treatments include:

VNUS Closure Procedure using radiofrequency energy
Ultrasound guided Foam Sclerotherapy
Microsclerotherapy for thread veins

Pathway 2 - Surgical Treatment for Varicose Veins

Larger veins often require surgical removal under general or spinal anaesthesia. Depending on the extent of your veins and your occupation, you may need to take between one to two weeks off work to recover.

In surgery, superficial veins that have become varicose veins are removed. The veins that are situated deep within your legs will take over the role of the damaged veins.

There are many types of operation depending on which veins need treated. Your surgeon at Kingsbridge Private Hospital will provide you with advice on which operation is best for you.

A common operation is ligation and stripping. In this operation, your surgeon will tie off the faulty vein to stop any blood flowing through it and then remove it. You may have phlebectomy with ligation and stripping to remove the smaller surface veins that lie under your skin. In this operation, your surgeon will use hooks to pull out your varicose veins through small cuts in your leg.

Although many people won't need any further treatment after surgery, it’s possible that new varicose veins can form.

Please note that all your options will be discussed in depth at your consultation with our experienced Vascular Consultants. We provide a full assessment service with clinical examination and ultrasound.

What To Expect After Varicose Vein Treatment?

After your treatment at Kingsbridge Private Hospital you should no longer have varicose veins, and any symptoms you had should be improved. Varicose vein surgery should also help prevent complications that varicose veins may cause and the general appearance of the area where the varicose veins were present.

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Patient Testimonials

"I am extremely happy with the treatment, and with the standard of care I have received. There is no doubt as to whether this treatment is highly effective. I have had several cosmetic surgeries (although not on my face) but can say in comparing the results of the Spring Thread procedure with other less invasive treatments, the results are more in keeping with the surgical procedures I have had." Spring Thread Patient Review, Cosmetech at Kingsbridge Patient

"I had surgery here at the weekend and I can't recommend this place highly enough. They took great care of me and kept me at ease throughout my stay. The staff were brilliant, really friendly and chatted away and the food was top class. This hospital was better than any hotel I wonder could I book a weekend away in it when I fully recover?" Mr McGinnity, Kingsbridge Patient

"EXCELLENT - Had surgery today under the very caring Dr Stewart and her team. I cannot thank her enough for all she’s done for me over the past few months. Everything was explained to me in detail and all my care was considerate, professional and compassionate. Everyone I’ve met today has been beyond kind from Will the Anaesthetist, the Nurses and theatre staff, the catering staff - there has been no exception. Thank you all for taking care of me so well today - look forward to getting home tomorrow x" Mrs McAleavey, Kingsbridge Patient

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"Just received surgery at this hospital and I couldn't have been made to feel any more comfortable from the minute I stepped in until the minute I left. All the staff are wonderful and so friendly I will highly recommend this hospital to everyone" Ms McGivern, Kingsbridge Patient

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"As hospitals go this one is pretty amazing! Had surgery with Mr Molloy at the end of October and have another one the end of this month. Mr Molloy is a gentleman who puts you at ease right away and ensured my last procedure went smoothly! From start to finish all the hospital staff go above and beyond to make your stay as comfortable and stress free as possible. The facilities are brilliant with the rooms spacious and modern to recover in. Keep up the good work!" Ms Roulston, Kingsbridge Patient

"My mother had a total hip replacement surgery. We stayed for three days and were discharged today. Honestly, words can't describe the quality of the job and care they do. The doctors Roger Wilson, Sherman, David, the nurses Susan, Sinead, Siobhan, Andrea, the catering staff who provided customised halal food, and the remaining team whose names I cannot remember were the kindest, nicest, politest, the most caring, professional and pleasant people we have ever come across in healthcare environment. These are true gems and real stars. We are indebted to their treatment.
They are 7 star people. We love you!" Mr Yourish, Kingsbridge Patient

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"Currently just back from recovery on the ward. I have just had ACL reconstructive surgery on my left knee. What can I say? This place is brilliant. I arrived at 8.35am, taken to the ward at 8.45am (my admission time was 9am). Tended to by a lovely Nurse. Dr Roger Wilson spoke to me around 9.45am, in Theatre for 10am, recovery for 11.10am and now currently back on ward. These guys are awesome. From the consultant to anaesthetist to nurses to cater assistants. Absolutely brilliant. Thank you so much. I am so grateful to everyone at Kingsbridge for the service." Mr McNicholl, Kingsbridge Patient

"I just had a total hip replacement done by Mr Molloy. He made me feel totally at ease (a real gentleman). I had 1st class treatment and as for the staff they couldn’t do enough for me. My experience was excellent from the time I arrived until the day I left for home. Thanks a million to all involved." Miss Bennett, Kingsbridge Patient

"Excellent experience with Kingsbridge Hospital, my dad had a day procedure here recently and not only did he receive fantastic care, but so did myself and my mum. The staff were so understanding and without saying anything could see I was looking after my mum also who has dementia, they went above and beyond to make the time spent waiting on my Dad as pleasant and stress free as possible, I will never forget the extra mile they went to, to support us. Many thanks x" Ms Forde, Kingsbridge Patient

"I have just been discharged from Kingsbridge today after surgery and was in for 3 days. From start to finish my experience was excellent. From catering staff up to senior nurses and doctors they were all fantastic and made my stay a positive experience. As a nurse myself I probably have high expectations of care and I certainly experienced the best of care in Kingsbridge who have staff they should be proud off. Great teamwork." Ms Armstrong, Kingsbridge Patient

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"I got my tonsils out yesterday, all the staff were so pleasant and nothing was too much for them. I really did receive one to one care. They just had so much time for me. The food was lovely and the staff from the kitchen where first class. Glad I received my surgery here." Miss Wright, Kingsbridge Patient

"The service and staff are first class. Had my cataract operation done on the 20th of January and I would like to thank all the staff of this fantastic hospital for giving me my life back. You are all a credit to your profession. Excellent service and I would highly recommend you. Once again thank you so much and I am truly grateful to you all." Mr Doolan, Kingsbridge Patient

"Amazing 5-star hospital. Have had other surgery here before on my back.
Yesterday's was a neck disc replacement operation. I would highly recommend this hospital like a hotel manner. Thanks again guys." Mr Phillips, Kingsbridge Patient

"I recently got an MRI scan at Kingsbridge and was very impressed with how simple the process was and how little time I had to wait. The staff were friendly, and it was an all-round pleasant experience." Mr Sharkey, Kingsbridge Patient

"Can’t praise Kingsbridge Private Hospital enough!! I had an operation a couple of weeks ago and I was so well looked after. My surgeon Mr Rashid was fantastic, and the nursing staff was also fabulous. I found they communicated very well to each other, so everyone knew when my meds were due, my allergies etc. They were so kind, so lovely, constantly checked to see how I was i.e. my temperature etc. The food was fabulous and the catering staff very helpful having had an operation were very happy to accommodate ... Thank you to all!" Ms Cheong, Kingsbridge Patient

"Staff very friendly and very efficient. Surgeon and surgery top class. Big thanks to the Nurses for all their care and patience" Mr Howard, Kingsbridge Patient

"I was in your facility yesterday for a day procedure (operation on my left arm). I wanted to write and express how impressed I was with the facilities and more importantly the staff on the Ward.

Everyone was excellent, and I mean excellent, i don't normally write congratulatory e-mails so this is high praise in my view. The Senior nurse was excellent, as was the Theatre nurse and the anaesthetist. Even the assistants that helped with catering and other duties. All came together to form a great impression of the establishment." Jason Carpal Tunnel Surgery, Kingsbridge Patient

"Very well satisfied with everyone at my appointment - firstly with reception who were very friendly and helpful, secondly with Mr Cusick who took his time to explain everything to me and finally One2One with Rose who organised the dates for my pre op and operation. I would highly recommend Kingsbridge Private Hospital." Patient Review, Orthopaedic Clinic

"When I attended Kingsbridge Private Hospital on the 14th May for a knee replacement the care I got was fantastic from entering the door until I was discharged on the 16th May. The surgeon Mr Laurence Cusick and his team was absolutely fantastic, the nurses and the rest of the team you couldn’t ask for better and the food was very good" Paitent Review , Knee Replacement Clinic

"My first knee replacement was October 2023, and this was done the manual way. The pre and post op was fantastic for both! There was almost no pain in my hip or rest of my body after the second surgery which was a huge difference compared to my first knee. I was able to continue my physio as normal and I noticed I had more movement a lot sooner with my second knee, the robotic assisted. I could not thank the staff enough and Mr McCaffrey for how kind and understanding, attentive they were. From the beginning, I felt heard, and understood. The nurses, the caterers, the physios, the doctors, pharmacists, it is top class care! Overall, in summary, I would highly recommend going for robotic assisted. It’s still a serious surgery, so pain is to be expected and recovery is not going to be rosy, but it is worth it. The relief I have now in both knees, walking without that bone-on-bone pain, I am grateful. And the robotic assisted was a noticeably less painful, faster recovery. " Robotic Assisted Knee Replacement , Kingsbridge Hospital North West Patient