About Varicose Veins Surgery
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that commonly appear in the legs due to weakened or damaged valves.
This causes blood to pool, resulting in swollen, painful veins. Symptoms include leg heaviness, aching, swelling, skin discolouration, and in severe cases, ulcers. Treatment is usually considered when symptoms continue despite conservative measures such as compression stockings.
Traditional vs Minimally Invasive Options
Traditional Vein Stripping/Ligation: Surgical removal or tying off of large problematic veins through incisions. Used for advanced varicose veins. Recovery: 6-8 weeks.
Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT): Minimally invasive laser procedure. Laser fibre inserted through tiny puncture to seal vein from inside. Performed under local anaesthesia. Procedure duration: 60-90 minutes. Same-day discharge.
Sclerotherapy: Injection-based treatment for smaller veins, usually given in one or more sessions.
Other Options: Radiofrequency ablation, VenaSeal closure, and foam sclerotherapy also available.
What partner hospitals offer
- Multiple Treatment Options: Access to surgical stripping, EVLT, RFA, sclerotherapy, and VenaSeal based on severity
- Vascular Specialists: Vascular surgeons and interventional radiologists
- Walk-In, Walk-Out Procedures: Most minimally invasive treatments allow same-day return to accommodation
- Technology: Laser and radiofrequency systems for precise treatment
- Minimal Scarring: Endovenous procedures usually leave only tiny puncture marks
- Assessment: Venous (Doppler) mapping before the specialist recommends a treatment
Outcomes depend on your condition and the surgeon. Ask the treating hospital for its own outcome data before you decide.
Recovery & Travel Timeline
Traditional Vein Stripping
- Hospital Stay: 1-2 days
- Initial Recovery: 1-2 weeks
- Fit to Fly: 2-3 weeks
- Return to Work: 4-6 weeks
- Full Recovery: 6-8 weeks
Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT)
- Hospital Stay: Same-day discharge
- Initial Recovery: 3-7 days
- Back to Light Activities: Immediate—walking encouraged
- Fit to Fly: 7-10 days
- Return to Work: Same or next day for desk jobs
- Full Recovery: 1-2 weeks
- Compression Stockings: Wear for 7 days continuously
Most international patients can return home within 10-14 days after laser treatment or 3-4 weeks after surgical stripping. Walking is encouraged immediately post-procedure to promote circulation.
Cost in India
Costs depend on the hospital, the procedure and your reports. Send your reports and the hospital will prepare a written estimate; you pay the hospital directly.
