Varicose veins are enlarged and swollen veins that are observed under the skin, mainly in the legs. Ultimately, these veins enlarge and take recognition as twisted, making the skin look less desirable. This occurs due to malfunction of the blood vessel valves, which normally direct blood to the heart and prevent falling back of the blood to the feet. Such veins can be either small threads or larger blebs.

It has been observed that among the most vulnerable members of Indian society, the condition of broken capillaries quite often affects people who have to stay in one place and work for a very critical amount of time. Among such individuals are shopkeepers as well as those employed in offices and working as security guards, and schools, or even teachers, have varicose veins. This condition can cause pain in the legs, a heavier feeling, or can also be itchy, or can also become swollen at some point in time. If these symptoms are not treated, likely, complications like alterations in the skin due to blood reflux (stasis), swelling of the leg, and deep vein thrombosis may arise in such patients.

The best part is that this is not life-changing or impossible to resolve. Under the category of surgeries, what they involve can be classified under two main types of treatments out of which are considered the most effective and the most commonly performed: Endovenous laser treatment and surgery. This will take more color when the two are subjected to a comparative analysis.

What is Varicose Veins Surgical Treatment?

Varicose vein surgeries are not a new trend. These treatments involve making incisions, also referred to as cuts, in the skin. These incisions enable the veins, which have been proven recurrently to be faulty and diseased, to be excised or ligated (tied off). There are two types of such surgeries, which include:

  1. Vein stripping: The surgeon removes the entire affected vein from the leg.
  2. Vein ligation: The vein is tied off to stop the flow of blood in that vein.

Generally, surgery is conducted under general anesthesia which the patient is medically induced into a coma during the actual surgery.

What is Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins?

Medical treatment is a contemporary therapeutic method of utilizing a laser to improve the proper functioning of the veins. It is also called EVLT, which means Endovenous Laser Treatment for varicose veins. To effect this treatment, a slender laser fiber is introduced into the dysfunctional vein through a tiny incision. The laser causes the vein to melt away because of the high-intensity heat produced by it. Blood is henceforth allowed to flow through different veins, away from the damaged one.

From another point of view, laser treatment for varicose veins involves a smaller entrance point since the procedure, in most cases not invasive. Cuts and sutures are not usually considered apart from the degradation of cutting down the new/destroyed vein. This type of intervention can be carried out under the influence of an anesthetic without the risk of pain.

Comparison: Laser vs. Surgery

Now, let’s compare the two treatments based on different factors,

  1. Pain and Discomfort
    1. Surgery: More painful as it involves major cuts and sutures. The procedure may take a longer time for recovery.
    2. Laser: Less painful. There is no or only minimal pain because it involves a little prick most of the time.
  2. Hospital Stay
    1. Surgery: Hospital stay of 2–3 days might be required.
    2. Laser: Usually, a day care and is discharged on the same day.
  3. Recovery Time
    1. Surgery: Patients may recover in 2–4 weeks. More so, there should be no vexatious activities within this period.
    2. Laser: The recovery is quicker than that for surgery.
  4. Scars and Stitches
    1. Surgery: Scars are commonly visible since there are welts attaching the skin due to the larger incision or the stitches.
    2. Laser: There are no conspicuous marks and only a small one that does not last.
  5. Efficacy
    1. Surgery: Surgical or operative procedures are usually successful, but some damaged veins may not be removed, and there is a possibility of relapse.
    2. Laser: Again, very successful with 95%-98 % dichotomy, so very thin chance of the problems coming again or problems post-treatment.
  6. Safety
    1. Surgery: Inpatient and female patients are at a greater risk of acquiring infections than their male counterparts.
    2. Laser: Similarly, this kind of treatment is much safer, and there are few complications, even while treating higher varicose veins stages. It is more technical and precise.
  7. Cost
    1. Surgery: Very affordable when done in the government hospitals. However, private hospitals come with a different price, which is higher.
    2. Laser: Every so slightly pricier as compared to surgery however is commensurate with the benefits and faster recovery as well.

Which Might Be Better for You?

Based on the following factors, one might be able to make a better decision between laser treatment and surgery:

  • Age and overall health of the patient
  • Severity of varicose veins
  • Budget and availability of treatment nearby
  • Patient preference - Some do not prefer pain, while some prefer recovery time

In most cases, since laser treatment is the modern solution, safe, fast in healing, and provides long-term results, it is considered a better option even for higher varicose veins stages.

Laser Treatment Availability for Varicose Veins in India

Laser treatment for varicose veins in India is being offered in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata, along with smaller towns. This treatment is provided in many select private hospital centers and clinics. Some of these centers go as far as to offer insurance or easy EMI payment options.

Government hospitals, too, are slowly warming up to laser treatment, but the wait could be a little longer.

Cost of Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins in India

Varied from one city or town to another and even from one hospital to another, average costs for varicose veins treatment in India range anywhere between ₹40,000 to ₹1,00,000, depending on the varicose veins stages, and the costs include consultation, tests, procedure charges, and follow-ups. Many health insurance plans do cover this treatment, so it is good to confirm with your insurer.

Home Remedies to Prevent Varicose Veins

Just after treatment, one must take care of their veins few of the very simple measures are:

  • Trying to avoid standing or sitting for hours on end
  • Walking for a few minutes after every 30 minutes if your job requires sitting or standing
  • Wearing compression stockings as directed by your doctor
  • Exercising for good blood circulation
  • Having a balanced weight
  • Elevating your legs while relaxing

Conclusion

Are varicose veins quite common and painful? They are curable. Over the years, delicate types of surgeries have been performed and still exist. Currently, laser treatment in India is preferred on a large scale only because of diminished pain, safer means, and quick recovery. 

If anyone in the family or a neighbor suffers from varicose veins, consulting a vascular specialist is essential. Depending on your condition, they would render you assistance in choosing the proper treatment. Proper care and timely treatment will see you free from pain, merry, and active.

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