Besides compression therapy, the most common form of treatment of varicose veins is the surgical removal of the incompetent vein, known as 'stripping' along with ligation of leaking valves. This is an operation performed under general or spinal anaesthesia requires 1-2 day hospital stay and a 3 week convalescence period.

Smaller varices can be treated using sclero therapy, however discolouration of the skin and allergic reactions are relatively common side effect of this treatment.