i.f.o. hospitalization insurance
Stripping of spider veins is a surgical procedure that removes spider veins (varices). Varicose veins are dilated and tortuous veins that occur mainly in the legs and are caused by weakened valves in the veins. This allows blood to backflow and accumulate, leading to symptoms such as pain, swelling and discomfort.
Do you suffer from medium to large varicose veins, visible as swollen, blue or purple veins in your legs? Stripping of varicose veins, also known as venous stripping, is the ideal solution for people aged 18 and above who struggle with this. Varicose veins can not only cause pain and swelling, but also make your legs feel heavy.
When traditional treatments such as compression stockings and lifestyle changes do not provide enough relief, stripping may be the answer.
This procedure is especially suitable for those who have persistent symptoms or experience complications, such as venous ulcers (open wounds) or phlebitis (vein inflammation).
At I Care Clinic, our experienced specialists will make sure you get the best treatment to make your legs healthy and comfortable again. Ready to say goodbye to varicose veins and improve your quality of life? We are here for you!
The stripping of varicose veins is a surgical procedure in which the affected vein, usually the vena saphena magna or vena saphena parva, is removed. The procedure involves a few steps:
You will first be given a local or general anaesthetic, so you won't feel any pain during the procedure.
The surgeon makes small incisions at the groin and ankle (for the vena saphena magna) or at the knee (for the vena saphena parva). A flexible wire is then inserted through the vein, after which the vein is attached to the wire and carefully removed from the leg through the incisions made.
The incisions are sutured and the leg is carefully bandaged.
• Effective: Stripping completely removes the affected vein, providing a permanent solution.
• Symptom relief: It can significantly reduce symptoms such as pain, swelling and fatigue in the legs.
• Improved aesthetics: The appearance of your legs improves as visible varicose veins are removed.
• Invasive: Stripping is a surgical procedure that requires anaesthesia and recovery time.
• Scarring: Scarring may occur where incisions are made.
• Recovery time: It may take several weeks to fully recover and resume your daily activities.
As with any surgical procedure, there are some rare risks with varicose vein stripping, such as infection at the site of the incisions. There is also a small risk of bleeding, nerve damage or the formation of blood clots.
Can I help you?
Dr. Françoise Lefebvre
Dr Lefebvre specialised in vascular surgery, and later in preventive medicine and nutrition. Her extensive training and experience make her an expert in the field of orthomolecular nutrition. For the stripping of varicose veins, you can consult this experienced doctor with all your questions and for the actual procedure, which involves an initial assessment followed by an ultrasound of the lower limbs.
The recovery process after varicose vein stripping usually involves the following steps:
Rest: immediately after surgery, rest is important. The leg should be kept elevated to reduce swelling
Compression stockings: wearing compression stockings is recommended to improve circulation and prevent the formation of blood clots
Exercise: light exercise is encouraged after a few days to improve blood circulation and prevent possible complications
Aftercare appointments: regular check-up appointments with the surgeon are important to monitor the healing process and recognise any complications early on
It is essential to follow the doctor's instructions and not engage in strenuous activities until the body has fully recovered. Most patients can resume daily activities after about 1-2 weeks, although recovery may vary from person to person.
At I Care Clinic, the cost of stripping varicose veins is i.f. hospital insurance.
Testimonials