Fair Square Medicare Wordmark

Does Medicare Pay for Varicose Vein Treatment?

doctor examining a patient's varicose veins stock photo

By Daniel Petkevich

Nov 18, 2022

The answer could save you money

Varicose veins, also known as spider veins, can appear as you age. In some instances, you might be able get Medicare coverage for the various forms of varicose vein treatment if your doctor deems them to be medically necessary.

Speak with a Medicare Advocate

Talk to one of our Licensed Medicare Agents today to find the right plans for you.

Read more to find out how much money you could save by utilizing Medicare coverage to treat varicose veins.

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that you can see just under the surface of your skin. They might look blue or purple. They can vary in size and be found anywhere on the body but are often found on the legs. Varicose veins form when the valves in your veins don't work properly. This lets blood flow backward and puts pressure on the vein walls. Vein problems often run in families.

What are the treatment options for varicose veins?

When it comes to treating varicose veins, there are several options. Your doctor may recommend that you wear compression stockings or use a combination of lifestyle changes and medications. Surgery is another option for more severe cases. This includes procedures like sclerotherapy, micro sclerotherapy, Venaseal, endovenous laser therapy (EVLT), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), and ambulatory phlebectomy.

Does Medicare cover any of these treatments?

Medicare generally doesn’t pay for cosmetic procedures, including varicose vein treatment. If it's primarily for cosmetic purposes, you will have to pay the cost out-of-pocket. However, if your doctor determines the procedure is medically necessary, then Medicare may pay for it. It's important to note that Medicare requires pre-authorizations from your doctor before they will approve coverage for this type of treatment. In some cases, Medicare may also require you to get a second opinion from another doctor before coverage is approved.

If Medicare covers it, that means they will pay 80% of the cost. You will be responsible for the remaining 20%. If you have a Medicare Supplement plan, you may be able to get coverage for the 20% that Medicare doesn’t cover.

How much will the surgery cost?

The cost of varicose vein treatments varies widely, depending on the particular procedure and where you have it done. Generally speaking, sclerotherapy costs between $350-$600 per treatment. EVLT can range from $1,200 - $3,000 per session. Ambulatory phlebectomy typically starts at around $2,000 for a single leg. Speak with a medical professional and shop around your area for the best estimate of what you might expect to pay.

It's important to keep in mind that these costs don’t include any fees associated with doctor visits or pre-authorizations required by Medicare before they will approve coverage for the procedure. You should also factor in how much your Medicare Supplement plan may contribute towards covering the remaining 20% not paid for by Medicare.

What are the side effects associated with surgery?

The side effects associated with varicose vein treatments can vary depending on the type of surgery you have. Generally, they include bruising, tenderness and swelling in the area where the procedure was done. Other more serious side effects can occur such as infection or blood clots. It's important to talk to your doctor about any risks associated with the procedure before you decide to proceed.

How long will it take to recover from surgery?

Recovery time can also vary depending on the type of surgery you have and your individual health situation. Generally speaking, it takes a few weeks for the treated area to heal. During this time, you should avoid strenuous exercise or activities that may put a strain on the area. In some cases, it may take up to six months before you see full results from the treatment.

Are there any alternative treatments available?

In addition to surgery, there are some alternative treatments available for varicose veins. These include lifestyle changes such as wearing compression stockings, losing weight and exercising regularly. Other options include laser treatments or injections of special medications into the affected veins. These treatments may not be as effective as surgery, but they can often help reduce symptoms such as pain and swelling. It's important to talk to your doctor about what treatment is best for you before making a decision.

How can you prevent varicose veins from developing?

There are several things you can do to help prevent varicose veins from developing. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding standing or sitting for long periods of time can all help. Wearing compression stockings or elevating your legs can also reduce pressure in the affected area and make it less likely for new varicose veins to form. Eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants like Vitamin C and E can also help improve circulation and strengthen your veins. It’s important to talk with your doctor about what steps you should take to prevent varicose veins from occurring or worsening.

Conclusion

If you think you need varicose vein treatment, talk to your doctor about the available options and how Medicare coverage works with them. This content is for informational purposes only. With your doctor, you can make an informed decision on your care. For questions about what Medicare plan is right for you, give us a call at 1-888-376-2028 to speak with a Medicare expert today.

Speak with a Medicare Advocate

Talk to one of our Licensed Medicare Agents today to find the right plans for you.

Recommended Articles

Mental health stock photo

Does Medicare Cover Mental Health?

Oct 12, 2022

cartoon hospital and male doctor stock image

Can I Have Two Primary Care Physicians?

Oct 3, 2022

Leg bones and knees, 3d rendering. stock photo

Does Medicare Cover Boniva?

Nov 29, 2022

Hepatitis C stock photo

Does Medicare Cover Hepatitis C Treatment?

Nov 22, 2022

Senior black man standing up and experiencing knee pain stock image

Does Medicare Cover Zilretta?

Nov 28, 2022

Senior woman fretting in front of her laptop stock photo

How Medicare Costs Can Pile Up

Oct 11, 2022

Man with disability and service dog stock photo

Does Medicare Cover Service Animals?

Nov 29, 2022

senior man receiving dental care stock photo

Will Medicare Cover Dental Implants?

Jun 2, 2022

Cover image

Will Medicare Cover it?

Oct 3, 2023

senior african american man feeling pain in his knees from arthritis while on a couch stock photo

How Much Does Xeljanz Cost with Medicare?

Jan 25, 2023

Diagnosis incontinence stock image

Does Medicare Cover Incontinence Supplies?

Dec 22, 2022

Cover image

Medigap Plan N vs. Plan G — Which One Fits You in 2025?

Jul 14, 2025

Cover image

Should You Work With A Remote Medicare Agent?

Sep 20, 2023

Cover image

Does Your Plan Include A Free Gym Membership?

Jul 12, 2023

Cover image

Is Fair Square Medicare Legitimate?

Jul 27, 2023

Cover image

Can I Change My Primary Care Provider with an Advantage Plan?

Aug 25, 2023

Health insurance form on a table with pen, calculator and glasses stock image

What You Need to Know About Creditable Coverage

Jan 18, 2023

Male doctor with his arms crossed stock image

Can Doctors Choose Not to Accept Medicare?

Dec 8, 2022

More of our articles

13 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Columbus

13 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Indianapolis

14 Best Ways to Stay Active in Charlotte

Building the Future of Senior Healthcare

Can I switch From Medicare Advantage to Medigap?

Can Medicare Advantage Plans be Used Out of State?

Comparing All Medigap Plans | Chart Updated for 2025

Costco Pharmacy Partners with Fair Square

Denied Coverage? What to Do When Your Carrier Says No

Do All Hospitals Accept Medicare Advantage Plans?

Do I Need Medicare If My Spouse Has Insurance?

Do I Need to Renew My Medicare?

Do You Need Books on Medicare?

Does Medicare Cover Abortion Services?

Does Medicare Cover Air Purifiers?

Does Medicare Cover Bariatric Surgery?

Does Medicare Cover Cartiva Implants?

Does Medicare Cover Cervical Disc Replacement?

Does Medicare Cover Driving Evaluations?

Does Medicare Cover Geri Chairs?

Does Medicare Cover Home Heart Monitors?

Does Medicare cover Hyoscyamine?

Does Medicare Cover Krystexxa?

Does Medicare Cover Mouth Guards for Sleep Apnea?

Does Medicare Cover Nexavar?

Does Medicare Cover Nuedexta?

Does Medicare Cover Physicals & Blood Work?

Does Medicare Cover Robotic Surgery?

Does Medicare Cover Shock Wave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis?

Does Medicare Cover SIBO Testing?

Does Medicare Cover the Urolift Procedure?

Does Medicare Cover Tymlos?

Does Medicare Cover Urodynamic Testing?

Does Medicare Cover Vitamins?

Does Medicare Pay for Antivenom?

Does Medicare pay for Opdivo?

Does Medicare Pay for Varicose Vein Treatment?

Does Medicare Require a Referral for Audiology Exams?

Everything About Your Medicare Card + Medicare Number

Explaining IRMAA on Medicare

Explaining the Different Enrollment Periods for Medicare

Finding the Best Dental Plans for Seniors

How Are Medicare Star Ratings Determined?

How Can I Get a Replacement Medicare Card?

How Do I Sign up for Medicare? A Simple How-To Guide For You

How Do Medicare Agents Get Paid?

How Do Medigap Premiums Vary?

How Does Medicare Cover Colonoscopies?

How Much Does a Pacemaker Cost with Medicare?

How Often Can I Change Medicare Plans?

How to Become a Medicare Agent

How to Deduct Medicare Expenses from Your Taxes

How Your Employer Insurance and Medicare Work Together

Is Botox Covered by Medicare?

Is Gainswave Covered by Medicare?

Is Vitrectomy Surgery Covered by Medicare?

Medicare & Ozempic

Medicare 101

Moving? Here’s What Happens to Your Medicare Coverage

Plan G vs. Plan N

Saving Money with Alternative Pharmacies & Discount Programs

The Fair Square Bulletin: October 2023

Welcome to Fair Square's First Newsletter

What Does Medicare Cover for Stroke Patients?

What Happens to Unused Medicare Set-Aside Funds?

What If I Don't Like My Plan?

What is the Medicare ICEP?

What People Don't Realize About Medicare

What To Do If Your Medicare Advantage Plan Is Discontinued

What's the Deal with Flex Cards?

When to Choose Medicare Advantage over Medicare Supplement

Which Medigap Policies Provide Coverage for Long-Term Care?

Your Medicare One-Stop-Shop

Your guide to Medicare Parts A & B, Medicare Advantage, and Medigap. 100% free.

Get the Fair Square Bulletin

Medicare savings tips, helpful guides, and more.

About

Medicare 101

Current Clients

Medicare Supplement Plans

Medicare Advantage Plans

Fair Square 2025

Terms of Use
Notice of Privacy Practices

Virgil Insurance Agency, LLC (DBA Fair Square Medicare) and www.fairsquaremedicare.com are privately owned and operated by Help Button Inc. Medicare supplement insurance plans are not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. This is a solicitation of insurance. A licensed agent/producer may contact you. Medicare Supplement insurance is available to those age 65 and older enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B and, in some states, to those under age 65 eligible for Medicare due to disability or End-Stage Renal disease. Virgil Insurance Agency is a licensed and certified representative of Medicare Advantage HMO, HMO SNP, PPO, PPO SNP and PFFS organizations and stand-alone PDP prescription drug plans. Each of the organizations we represent has a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any plan depends on contract renewal. The plans we represent do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Plan availability varies by region and state. For a complete list of available plans please contact 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048), 24 hours a day/7 days a week or consult www.medicare.gov. © 2025 Help Button Inc

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.

MULTIPLAN_FairSquareMedicare_01062022_M