Varicose veins are not a serious health problem, but they can be painful if not managed and treated promptly. If you spot bulging veins, skin changes, or heaviness in your legs, it’s time you should see a doctor.
Varicose veins are twisted and enlarged veins, usually caused in the legs. A network of superficial veins runs beneath the skin, and weakness in the walls of these superficial veins can cause them to twist and enlarge. Therefore, this built-up pressure in the veins can lead to varicose veins. Heavy weight, standing up for too long, prior blood clots in the legs, and pregnancy might increase the risk of varicose veins.
If you are worried about these changes and fall into the risk factor, book a vascular consultation at Treatment Range Hospitals to know the right treatment and management.
When Varicose Vein Surgery Is Needed
In some cases, your doctor might recommend practicing exercises, controlling weight, and using compression stockings to ease the pain and lower the complications. However, an invasive procedure or surgery might be considered during the following complications:
- Persistent leg pain and swelling despite following conservative measures
- Skin changes such as darkening, open ulcers, bleeding and inflammation
- Superficial thrombophlebitis, where blood clots form inside the veins causing severe pain
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) where blood clots form deep inside the veins. This can also travel to the lungs, causing pulmonary embolism, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate action.
Our vascular specialists’ team might schedule an ultrasound scan of your legs and necessary diagnostic tests for a personalized treatment plan.
Varicose Vein Stripping And Ligation: How It Works
Vein stripping and ligation is a surgical procedure to remove the varicose vein in your leg. Your veins have valves that ensure blood flows in the correct direction towards your heart. Varicose veins develop when these valves are weakened or damaged and blood pools in the veins.
During the procedure, local or general anesthesia is given to block you from pain. A minor incision is done in the upper thigh or groin where the faulty vein intersects with the deeper veins. The vein is then tied to stop blood from entering into it (ligation). A stripper (flexible instrument) is passed through the vein and then stripped off from your leg. There may be visible varicose branches that may also be removed with tiny cuts.
Since deeper veins continue to carry blood, removing the faulty vein will not harm blood circulation and will improve symptoms. There is also no risk of varicose veins developing back.
Get an expert second opinion at Treatment Range Hospitals to know whether you should go for vein stripping or a laser procedure.
Possible Surgical Complications
Vein stripping and ligation is generally a safe procedure when you get it done by an expert vascular surgeon. However, there is a low risk of complications, including:
- Blood clot in the leg
- Allergic reaction to anesthesia
- Delayed healing or infection at the site of incision
- Numbness or pain at the site of removed vein
- Scarring at the removed site
Therefore, before you go for the surgery, know about the benefits, complications, and recovery options. We would provide you with clear instructions for your safety.
Recovery Post-Surgery
Recovery from varicose vein stripping and logation takes around two to four weeks depending on your overall health and extent of the procedure.
- Pain and bruising will be manageable with the prescribed medications
- Compression stockings support recovery and reduce swelling
- Walking and moving frequently will improve circulation and prevents blood clots
- Need to avoid strenuous exercises, long-distance travel and lifting weights
Apart from the above, you will have to stick to lifestyle changes by staying active, maintaining weight, and having regular follow-ups.
Our vascular specialists’ team gives you clear rehabilitation guidance to support you during recovery.
Surgery vs. Laser For Varicose Veins: Which Treatment Is Better
Laser and surgical treatments, although aim at removing varicose veins, both differ in procedure, recovery, and comfort of the patient. Laser treatment is a modern minimally invasive option that will treat several varicose veins without any bigger incisions. However, surgery is the option where laser is not suitable.
| Endovenous Laser | Stripping & Ligation Surgery | |
| How it works | A thin fiber is inserted into the vein, where the laser energy heats and closes the vein | Vein is tied off and removed through small cuts. |
| Procedure | Small entry point, no larger incisions | Needs incisions and stitches |
| Recovery period | Quick, recovers in 1 to 2 days | Longer, recovers in 1 to 2 weeks |
| Pain | Mild and minimal pain | More pain and bruises |
| Complications | Fewer side effects | Infection, nerve injury, and scarring |
| Results | Higher success rate | Might leave scars |
Book a consultation with us to understand whether laser or surgery works the best for you. Our vascular specialists will help you compare the options, outcomes, and costs according to your medical status.
Cost Of Varicose Vein Treatment
The cost of treatments for varicose veins depends on the following factors:
- Severity of the condition or number of veins or legs to be treated
- Type of procedure, whether traditional surgery or laser
- Period of stay and ward category
- Additional investigations and tests
- Post-operative medications and follow-ups
Contact our helpline or billing desk to get an estimate as per your procedure. Our team will be available 24×7 to answer your queries.
You can book a vascular consultation at Treatment Range Hospitals to find the right surgery for your condition.
