Hi all,
Back when I was 19 I had veins stripped on my left leg. Legs were fine until about 8 years ago (I'm now 35) and now look awful again, plus I now have an added VV on my right leg. I went to see my doc a few years ago and she suggested support stockings and said if they didn't work she might be able to refer me but it was unlikely as I didn't have ulceration etc. So I've left it as I've been studying and have now moved to the next county over (hence the name), but now I'm getting really pissed off with them - additionally I have developed eczema on the veins and suffer from swollen ankles if standing for too long.
I work as a gardener and support stockings are just not an option because of the summer heat and discomfort - I work in a sheltered garden where it can easily reach 35ºC in the sun. So before I go and plead to my (new) doctor, can anyone give me an idea of how much surgery costs when private? I'm not bothered about the thread veins, it's the knobbly ones I hate. They are very noticeable and I've had comments before, which makes me even more self-conscious and it's hugely affecting my confidence.
On my salary I really can't afford surgery but I'd seriously consider getting a loan to pay for it. I'm assuming I'd have to go for stripping as they're big bulgy veins.