Mild vs Advanced Varicose Veins: Is Laser Treatment Effective for Both?

Varicose veins are generally classified into stages, ranging from minor spider-like veins to an active venous ulcer, which is the final stage of chronic varicose vein disease.

In the early days, or more typically, Stage 1, varicose veins appear as small and visible blue veins beneath the skin. They are mostly accompanied by minimal or no discomfort, although some individuals might experience mild aching or leg heaviness, especially after sitting for a long period of time. At this stage, the valve damage is limited, and the blood flow disruption is almost minimal.

When left unaddressed for a long time, these veins progress to the advanced phase, or more specifically, Stage 6, when the veins become large, bulging and twisted. Here, patients experience a throbbing sensation and persistent leg pain accompanied by skin changes and eczema. The vein dysfunction becomes more extensive, and it is no longer a cosmetic concern. It is a medical emergency that requires timely treatment.

What Is Laser Treatment For Varicose Veins?

Laser treatment, more specifically Endovenous Laser Treatment or EVLT, is a minimally invasive technique that uses targeted laser energy delivered through a thin fibre to the affected vein.

The laser fibre heats the vein walls, thereby sealing them to prevent pooling of blood. Over time, the treated vein is reabsorbed by the body, and the blood is redirected to the healthier veins.

In the present day, laser therapy has emerged as the standard treatment to get a permanent solution to the condition with a high success rate.

Advantages Of The Laser Technique For Varicose Veins

Laser treatment is highly effective in providing long-lasting relief from varicose veins. The method has gained popularity due to several advantages the treatment offers.

• Completely painless procedure
• No cuts and wounds
• No blood loss
• No postoperative pain and discomfort
• No infections or any other complications
• Quick recovery within a few days
• No visible ugly scar
• Minimal chance of recurrence

However, it is important to know that the effectiveness of the procedure depends upon the severity of the condition and the expertise of the surgeon, based on which the varicose vein laser treatment cost also varies.

Does Laser Treatment Work For Mild Varicose Veins?

The laser technique is probably the best option for mild varicose veins, with a success rate of more than 95%. The reason is that the affected veins are quite small with limited valve damage, which makes treatment to close the vein a lot easier. Most patients experience noticeable cosmetic improvements along with reduced heaviness in the legs. The pain is also negligible both before and after the procedure, with a quick return to daily activities.

It is recommended by a surgeon under the following scenarios.

1. The veins are symptomatic (swelling, achiness and heaviness).
2. Conservative treatments like compression stockings are not showing improvements.
3. When the goal is both symptom relief and cosmetic improvement

The whole procedure is completed in one session, and the varicose vein laser treatment cost is much lower compared to the later stages.

Can Laser Procedures Manage Advanced Varicose Veins?

If you are wondering if laser treatment provides successful results for varicose veins in the advanced stage, the answer is yes, but only if performed by an experienced surgeon.

EVLT also has a success rate even when the disease has progressed to the advanced stage. The treatment helps in closing faulty and superficial veins. It improves venous pressure and blood circulation, thereby healing heaviness and swelling.

Laser treatment addresses the root cause of varicose veins, and in advanced cases, patients might need multiple sessions for the best outcomes. Moreover, varicose vein laser treatment cost increases as the disease progresses.

The Right Time To Opt For Laser Treatment

It is seen that most patients wait to get treated for varicose veins. What they don’t know is that ignoring the condition not only increases the cost but also the risks of complications.

• When the symptoms are mild
• Want the treatment to be simpler and more affordable
• Seek permanent relief from the symptoms
• Avoid postoperative complications

What Is The Cost Of Laser Treatment For Varicose Veins?

Laser varicose vein treatment cost in Kolkata typically ranges between Rs. 55,000 and Rs. 90,000 for each leg. In some cases, the maximum average price of EVLT can go up to Rs. 1,26,000, especially when both legs or multiple laser sessions are required.

The overall pricing structure might vary depending on the following factors.

• Expertise and experience of the surgeon
• Location and hospital facilities
• Number of sessions required
• Pre-procedure consultation and tests
• Post-operative care and follow-ups

Make sure to discuss with your surgeon the exact laser varicose vein treatment cost to plan your treatment journey.

Conclusion

Laser treatment for varicose veins works exceptionally well for both mild and advanced cases. Moreover, it is one of the most recommended options when it comes to the treatment of the condition.

You don’t have to wait to live with varicose veins for years to make the legs appear bad. Book an appointment with a reputed surgeon like Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik to discuss the effectiveness of the treatment and the varicose veins laser treatment cost.