Saphenous Vein Stripping (Both Legs) in Turkey

Vein stripping is a surgical procedure that physically removes the saphenous vein from the leg. Two incisions are made, one in the groin (or behind the knee) and one near the ankle or calf. A flexible wire (stripper) is threaded through the vein, and the vein is pulled out through the lower incision.

At the same time, the junction of the saphenous vein with the deep venous system is surgically tied off (ligation) to prevent recurrence. Visible varicose branch veins may also be removed through small incisions (phlebectomies) during the same procedure.

Vein stripping is performed under general or spinal anaesthesia and typically takes 60-90 minutes per leg. The longer hotel stay (6 nights) reflects the more significant recovery compared to endovenous techniques.

While newer minimally invasive techniques have become the first-line recommendation, vein stripping remains clinically effective with long-term success rates of 85-90%. It may be the most appropriate option when vein size, tortuosity, or anatomy makes endovenous catheter techniques impractical.

This package covers treatment for both legs in a single session.

You may be suitable for this treatment if you have symptomatic varicose veins that are affecting your quality of life.

You may be a good candidate if:

• You have visible varicose veins causing aching, heaviness, or swelling
• Your legs feel tired and uncomfortable, particularly after standing
• You have skin changes (discoloration, eczema, thickening) around the ankles
• You have had a duplex ultrasound confirming venous reflux
• Conservative measures (compression stockings, exercise) have not provided sufficient relief
• You have been on an NHS waiting list and want to proceed sooner

You may not be suitable if:

• You have significant deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the affected leg
• You are pregnant (treatment is deferred until after delivery)
• You have peripheral arterial disease affecting blood supply to your legs
• Your varicose veins are purely cosmetic with no symptoms or reflux

Before your procedure

A free consultation reviews your symptoms and any previous ultrasound findings. A duplex ultrasound scan is performed in Turkey to map your veins and confirm the treatment plan. This scan shows exactly which veins are faulty and guides the treatment approach.

On the day

You are driven from your 5-star hotel to the clinic. Your personal translator accompanies you. The veins to be treated are marked on your skin. You receive general or spinal anaesthesia for the procedure.

An incision is made in the groin, and the saphenous vein is tied off and removed using a flexible stripping wire. Visible branch veins may also be removed. The procedure takes 60-90 minutes per leg.

After the procedure

Compression stockings are applied immediately. You can walk out of the clinic and are encouraged to walk regularly. You return to your hotel the same day. Follow-up appointments and ultrasound checks are scheduled during your stay.

Hotel recovery

Your hotel stay allows time for follow-up scans, graduated compression wear, and comfortable recovery before travelling home.

Recovery from vein stripping is longer than endovenous techniques due to the surgical incisions.

Days 1-3: Rest with the leg elevated. Moderate discomfort and bruising, managed with pain medication. Wear compression stockings continuously. Walking short distances is encouraged.

Days 4-7: Gradually increase walking. Bruising may be significant but resolves over 2-3 weeks.

Weeks 1-2: Most patients return to light activities. Avoid prolonged standing and heavy lifting. Stitches removed around day 10.

Weeks 2-4: Progressive return to normal activities. Continue wearing compression stockings during the day. Bruising fades.

Weeks 4-6: Full return to normal activities including exercise. The groin incision heals into a small, discreet scar.

Long-term: Results are typically permanent for the treated vein. Maintain a healthy weight and stay active to prevent new varicose veins.

This is a safe, well-established procedure with a strong track record. Understanding the possible side effects helps you feel fully informed.

Common and temporary effects:

• Bruising along the treated vein (resolves in 1-2 weeks)
• Mild to moderate discomfort or tightness in the leg
• Firmness or a cord-like feeling along the treated vein (this is the sealed vein, it softens over weeks)
• Slight skin discolouration along the treatment area (usually fades)
• Temporary numbness near the treatment area

Less common risks:

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), rare, minimised by walking and compression stockings
• Nerve damage causing numbness (usually temporary, rarely permanent)
• Skin burns (rare with modern equipment and experienced operators)
• Phlebitis (inflammation of the vein, managed with anti-inflammatories)
• Need for additional treatment sessions (some patients need touch-up treatments)

Your treatment is performed by an experienced vascular specialist in a government-licensed facility. Follow-up ultrasound scans during your stay confirm successful treatment.