Sonovein® is the registered name for High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), also known as Echotherapy, a truly revolutionary approach in the treatment of varicose veins. Unlike endovenous laser, radiofrequency ablation, or foam sclerotherapy, Sonovein® is completely non-invasive, requiring no injections, incisions, or local anaesthetic. In this advanced procedure, ultrasound energy is transmitted through the skin and precisely focused onto the affected vein, allowing treatment without breaking the skin or damaging surrounding tissues. Sonovein® was first introduced to the UK in 2019 by Professor Mark Whiteley at The Whiteley Clinic. This pioneering step placed the clinic at the forefront of non-invasive vein treatment. In October 2020, The Whiteley Clinic became the first centre in the world to install the upgraded Sonovein® HD, a more powerful and efficient version of the original device. This next-generation system significantly reduced treatment time and improved patient comfort and outcomes. The Sonovein® device includes two integrated ultrasound systems: one to visualise and target the vein, and another to deliver focused therapeutic ultrasound (HIFU) to the precise treatment area.
High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is most suitable for patients with minimal varicose veins affecting the Great Saphenous Vein (GSV), Small Saphenous Vein (SSV), Anterior Accessory Saphenous Vein (AASV), or small incompetent perforator veins. Suitability is confirmed through detailed duplex ultrasound assessment prior to treatment.
This minimally invasive procedure is performed as an outpatient treatment, allowing patients to return home or to work immediately afterwards. Due to its non-invasive nature, there is typically no need for extended recovery or downtime.
Anaesthetic Details
The Sonovein® procedure is entirely non-invasive and typically does not require any local anaesthesia or sedation. Most patients experience only minimal discomfort, and treatment is performed without the need for injections or incisions.
Number of treatment Sessions
The number of treatment sessions may vary depending on the number and location of affected veins or incompetent perforator veins requiring treatment.
Pain Level
Patients may experience a brief stinging sensation from the local anaesthetic injections, but overall discomfort during the procedure is minimal.
Price Range
The cost of treatment using the Sonovein® HD device, which delivers High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), typically ranges from £2,200 to £6,200, depending on the number and complexity of the veins requiring treatment.
Financial Aids
Low-interest finance options are available at The Whiteley Clinic to help spread the cost of Sonovein® HD (HIFU) treatment, making this advanced, non-invasive procedure more accessible to patients.
Recovery following Sonovein® HD (HIFU) treatment at The Whiteley Clinic is rapid, with most patients able to resume normal activities almost immediately after this outpatient procedure. Compression stockings may be worn during the day for added comfort, although they are not medically required.
Potential side effects of the Sonovein® HD procedure include pain, bruising, and the possibility of treatment failure requiring additional sessions, as it is a relatively new technique. There is also a small risk of altered sensation, which typically improves over time.
Clinical experience at The Whiteley Clinic indicates that Echotherapy (SONOVEIN® / HIFU) achieves effective vein closure in approximately 85–90% of patients, providing reliable treatment outcomes.
While long-term data is still being collected, The Whiteley Clinic’s comprehensive treatment planning, guided by advanced diagnostics, is designed to minimise the risk of vein recurrence.
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