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Which varicose vein treatment does the health insurance fund pay for?

The diagnosis of varicose veins presents many people with a decision: have them removed or live with them? And will the health insurance even pay for the operation? Because from a medical viewpoint, the bluish meanderings on your legs do not always have to be removed.

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Which varicose vein treatment does the health insurance fund pay for?

Fundamentally, the statutory health insurance bears the cost for the removal of varicose veins either totally or partially, if it is medically required. The patient must pay if the removal of varicose veins is for purely cosmetic reasons. But not all health insurance funds cover the costs of all procedures. What the statutory health insurance funds normally pay for is the classic removal of varicose veins by vein stripping or partial stripping.

But nowadays there are other, considerably more gentle methods of removing varicose veins, which can be performed as an outpatient with a low risk of complications, such as


They are, however, somewhat more expensive than the traditional methods. Although one of the modern procedures would be advisable for many varicose vein patients, the costs are not necessarily reimbursed by the health insurance fund.

Private health insurance funds and additional insurance schemes cover the costs, most of the statutory funds do not. With this in mind, you should definitely contact your health insurer in order to clarify any potential reimbursement of costs. Because some statutory health insurers have agreed special service packages with special doctors and hospitals.

Does the health insurance fund bear the cost of compression therapy?

A conservative therapy for treating varicose veins is also possible using compression, that is by applying external pressure. Usually, this entails using compression stockings, which are worn by the patient during the day, but which are also helpful for aftercare following operations. Private health insurers bear the complete cost for compression stockings, statutory ones only partially. This usually incurs a supplementary charge for the insured party.

How much does it cost to have varicose veins removed?

Varicose vein patients can simply choose one of the more gentle procedures and bear the costs themselves. Generally, there is also the possibility to submit a cost reimbursement application in advance to the health insurance fund. If that is not accepted, it is good to know how expensive such an operation can be. Have the doctor treating you explain this in detail in advance.

Is the cost of removing spider veins covered by health insurance funds?

In contrast to varicose veins, spider veins do not pose a health risk and are classed as a purely cosmetic problem. Accordingly, the health insurance fund does not pay for their removal. The fine, bluish-reddish branches can be removed by laser, sclerotherapy or pulsed light. Dermatologists usually offer these services. But you have to pay all of the costs yourself.

Before you decide to have the spider veins removed, you should collect detailed information on the costs involved. Because one session is usually not enough, and several appointments are required until the shimmering blood vessels are no longer visible from the outside. Ask the doctor treating you about this in advance.