Can I get NHS varicose vein treatment even if the vein doesn't hurt but just looks fugly?

[hmc]

Have big varicose vein on right thigh. It doesn't hurt and I know this will sound vain and shallow ( I am vain and shallow!) but it's bloody ugly. I have a shapely pair of pins and would look good in shorts - but can't wear them due to the big bulbuous vein. Likewise feel self conscious in my swimmers.

Will the NHS do something about them - is it worth me going to the GP and asking or will he send me away with a flea in my ear?

I suppose I would pay privately if necessary

Chances are no. Cosmetic treatments are always at the sharp end when funds are tight, and there is usually a need to demonstrate physical harm from the problem. No one should send you away with a flea in your ear just for asking though - just don't get your hopes up.

I thought that might be the case......thanks.

Am tempted to lie and say it hurts

Depends on your postcode but scarce.
You will wait very long time even if get a maybe.

Depends where you live but IME yes you can. Without much of a wait. It seems it really is a lottery.

Ok - so perhaps, perhaps not. No harm in asking I suppose - will do that. Keep your fingers crossed for me. Thanks all

They have recently stopped treating them even for non cosmetic reasons in alot of areas. Part of the cutbacks, but yes you can try.

Sympathies, OP.

Does anyone know what the cost ought to be to go privately? I have two very big and very painful VVs in my right leg; I am trying to persudae GP to make a referral (they are not normally funded in my area but GP can still make a referral for clinical reasons I'll wager). But if I and the OP have to go private, what are we looking at in terms of dosh?

Sorry yours are painful Linerunner - I can understand why the NHS might not pay for mine, but for symptomatic varicose veins I think it is pretty rubbish if NHS doesn't fund!

Would be useful to know how much it costs and also who to approach (we don't have private health insurance but would pay from cash flow)