Understanding varicose veins: comprehensive treatment options at Livasa Hospitals

Varicose veins affect millions of people worldwide and are a common cause of leg pain, swelling and cosmetic concern. This patient-focused guide explains what varicose veins are, why they develop, how they are diagnosed, and the full spectrum of modern treatment options available at Livasa Hospitals across Punjab — including Livasa Mohali, Livasa Amritsar, Livasa Hoshiarpur and Livasa Khanna. Whether you are searching for "varicose veins treatment Punjab", "vein clinic Punjab" or "best varicose veins specialist Punjab", this article covers conservative measures, minimally invasive procedures such as endovenous laser treatment and radiofrequency ablation, and surgical options with clear comparisons, expected recovery timelines, and cost estimates specific to the region.

---

Introduction

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted superficial veins most commonly seen in the legs. They range from cosmetic spider veins to large rope-like veins that can cause aching, heaviness and complications such as skin changes or ulcers. Varicose veins are a manifestation of venous insufficiency — the failure of one-way valves inside the veins that normally direct blood from the legs back to the heart. When valves fail, blood pools, veins dilate and become visible under the skin.

Globally, estimates suggest that up to 30% of adults will develop varicose veins or significant venous disease during their lifetime; the prevalence increases with age. In India, population studies indicate that a significant minority — often cited in the range of 10–25% depending on region and occupation — experience clinically relevant venous disease. In Punjab, where many people work in occupations requiring prolonged standing or physical labor, the burden of venous disease is notable. Livasa Hospitals offers specialised vascular care and vascular surgery services across Punjab to diagnose and treat these conditions effectively.

This guide will help you understand symptoms, risk factors such as pregnancy and obesity, diagnostic tests like duplex ultrasound, and treatment choices — from compression stockings to endovenous laser treatment (EVLT), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), sclerotherapy and ambulatory phlebectomy. We also compare outcomes, recovery times and typical costs in Punjab, and explain when to contact a vein specialist. If you need a consultation, you can book varicose veins appointment Livasa Hospitals online or call +91 80788 80788.

---

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are dilated, tortuous superficial veins resulting from chronic venous insufficiency. They typically appear blue, purple or flesh-colored and are most commonly found on the calves and inner thighs, but can occur anywhere on the legs. Unlike deeper veins that lie under muscles, superficial veins close to the skin become visible as they expand and twist.

Spider veins (telangiectasias) are a related but milder form of venous abnormality. They are tiny, fine, often red or blue veins visible near the skin’s surface in a web-like pattern. While spider veins are primarily cosmetic, varicose veins may cause symptoms and complications. It is important to distinguish between the two because treatment differs: spider veins often respond to sclerotherapy and surface laser treatment, whereas varicose veins frequently require treatment of underlying reflux in larger veins.

Anatomically, the leg venous system consists of:

• The superficial venous system (great saphenous and small saphenous veins)
• The deep venous system (veins within the muscles)
• Perforator veins connecting superficial to deep veins

When valves in the superficial system or perforators become incompetent, reflux occurs and pressure increases in the superficial veins causing dilation and the visible varicosities you see on the skin surface.

 

Understanding this anatomy is essential because modern, minimally invasive treatments such as endovenous laser treatment (EVLT Punjab) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) target the diseased saphenous veins to reduce pressure and allow varicose tributaries to shrink or be removed.

---

Causes and risk factors

Varicose veins develop when venous valves weaken, leading to blood reflux and venous hypertension. The exact cause of valve failure can be multifactorial. Recognizing risk factors helps patients and clinicians target prevention and early treatment.

Common risk factors include:

• Age: With aging, vein walls and valves may degenerate.
• Genetics: A family history of varicose veins is one of the strongest predictors.
• Female sex: Hormonal factors—pregnancy, oral contraceptives and hormone therapy—can predispose to venous disease.
• Pregnancy: Increased blood volume and pressure from the uterus can raise venous pressure, leading to new varicose veins or worsening of pre-existing ones. Pregnancy varicose veins often improve postpartum but may persist.
• Occupation and lifestyle: Jobs requiring prolonged standing or sitting (factory work, retail, driving) increase risk; sedentary lifestyle and obesity also contribute.
• Prior deep vein thrombosis (DVT): DVT can damage deep vein valves and increase superficial venous pressure.
• Smoking and poor cardiovascular health: These factors impair circulation and healing.

 

In Punjab, common local contributors include prolonged agricultural or industrial work and repeated pregnancies. Prevention strategies focus on weight management, increasing daily movement, compression stockings for at-risk occupations, and early evaluation by a vein specialist if symptoms develop. If you experience progressive swelling, aching or skin changes, early referral to a vascular care center such as Livasa Hospitals can prevent complications and broaden non-surgical treatment options.

---

Symptoms and possible complications

Varicose veins present with a spectrum of signs and symptoms. Many people initially present for cosmetic reasons, but others experience significant discomfort that affects daily activities. Recognizing warning signs of complication is important so timely treatment can be obtained.

Common symptoms include:

• Aching, throbbing or heaviness in the legs, often worse after prolonged standing
• Visible bulging veins that are blue or purple
• Swelling of the lower leg, especially around the ankle
• Itching, burning or skin irritation over varicose veins
• Night cramps and restless legs

 

Potential complications from untreated significant venous disease:

• Phlebitis (inflammation of superficial veins), which may be painful and red
• Bleeding from superficial veins after minor trauma
• Chronic venous insufficiency leading to skin discoloration (hyperpigmentation), lipodermatosclerosis and induration
• Venous ulcers around the ankles—these are the most serious long-term complication and are associated with significant morbidity
• Occasionally, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) risk is increased in patients with advanced venous disease

 

Because symptoms can progress, patients in Punjab and surrounding regions are encouraged to consult a vein specialist early. Treatments such as compression therapy, sclerotherapy or endovenous ablation reduce symptoms and risk of complications when applied at the right stage of disease.

---

Diagnosis and tests

Accurate diagnosis of varicose veins requires clinical evaluation and imaging. A detailed history and physical examination by a vein specialist or vascular surgeon determine severity and guide treatment planning. Key components of diagnosis include assessment of symptoms, vein appearance, location of reflux and any skin changes.

Duplex ultrasound is the cornerstone diagnostic test. It is non-invasive, painless and performed in an outpatient setting. Duplex ultrasound provides:

• Visualization of superficial and deep venous anatomy
• Measurement of blood flow direction and detection of reflux
• Identification of incompetent perforator veins
• Assessment for prior or current deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

 

Additional tests, rarely necessary, may include venography (X-ray of veins with contrast) for complex or recurrent disease. A thorough evaluation will also consider medical history including history of DVT, medication use (especially hormone therapy or anticoagulants), pregnancy status and comorbidities like diabetes and peripheral arterial disease.

Differences between spider veins and varicose veins are clarified during diagnosis. Spider veins are superficial, typically less than 1 mm in diameter and rarely associated with reflux in the saphenous vein. Varicose veins are larger, often >3 mm, and frequently related to saphenous reflux. Treatment choice depends on whether underlying reflux exists.

---

Treatment options: conservative, minimally invasive and surgical

Treatment is individualized according to symptoms, severity, patient preference and findings on duplex ultrasound. Options range from conservative measures to minimally invasive outpatient procedures and, occasionally, surgery. At Livasa Hospitals varicose veins treatment in Punjab follows international guidelines with a focus on minimally invasive, outpatient care whenever appropriate.

Conservative management (first-line for mild disease or for patients not ready for procedures):

• Compression stockings: Graduated compression (15–40 mmHg depending on severity) reduces swelling and symptoms and is often recommended as initial therapy. Proper fit and adherence are essential.
• Leg elevation and exercise: Regular walking and leg elevation reduce venous pressure after prolonged standing.
• Weight management and lifestyle modification: Reducing body weight and avoiding prolonged immobility reduce symptom burden.

 

Minimally invasive procedures (preferred in most modern vein clinics) — outpatient, with local anesthesia and rapid recovery:

• Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT / EVLA): A laser fiber is inserted into the incompetent vein under ultrasound guidance. Laser energy heats and closes the vein, redirecting blood into healthy deep veins. EVLT Punjab is a widely used, effective treatment with low recurrence when combined with tributary treatment.
• Radiofrequency ablation (RFA): Similar to EVLT, RFA uses radiofrequency energy to heat and collapse the vein. It is well tolerated with minimal bruising. Search terms: RFA for varicose veins Punjab, radiofrequency ablation Punjab.
• Sclerotherapy: A chemical sclerosant is injected into the vein to cause collapse and absorption. Foam sclerotherapy is effective for larger veins; micro-sclerotherapy treats spider veins. Sclerotherapy Punjab and sclerotherapy cost Punjab are common queries.
• Ambulatory phlebectomy: Small incisions allow removal of large surface varicosities not amenable to ablation alone. It is often combined with EVLT/RFA.

 

Surgical options (less commonly required now but indicated in select cases):

• High ligation and stripping: Traditional surgery to remove the great saphenous vein. It may be used for very extensive disease or when minimally invasive techniques are not suitable.
• Vein bypass or complex reconstructions: Rare and reserved for advanced venous disease or failed prior procedures.

 

At Livasa Hospitals, specialists in vascular surgery and interventional vascular care evaluate each patient to recommend the best option — often favoring minimally invasive EVLT or RFA with targeted sclerotherapy and ambulatory phlebectomy as needed to achieve cosmetic and symptomatic improvement with quick recovery.

---

Comparing procedures: benefits, recovery and cost

Choosing the right treatment involves comparing efficacy, safety, recovery time and cost. Below is an easy-to-read comparison of common options. These summaries reflect typical experiences; your vein specialist at Livasa Hospitals will advise the best approach for your condition.

Procedure type	Benefits	Recovery time
Minimally invasive (EVLT / RFA)	High success for saphenous reflux, outpatient, local anaesthesia, low pain	Return to work 1–3 days; normal activity in 1–2 weeks
Sclerotherapy (foam / micro)	Best for spider veins and small varicosities; quick, repeatable treatments	Immediate; compression for 1–2 weeks; multiple sessions may be needed
Ambulatory phlebectomy	Removes large surface veins with small incisions; excellent cosmetic results	Return to work 2–7 days; swelling and bruising resolve over 2–4 weeks
Traditional surgery (stripping)	Comprehensive removal of diseased veins when needed	1–2 weeks off work; longer recovery than endovenous techniques

Cost considerations in Punjab (approximate ranges; individual pricing varies by centre, extent of disease and combination procedures). Livasa Hospitals provides transparent cost estimates during consultation. Typical price ranges in Punjab:

Procedure	Approximate cost range (INR)	Notes
Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT / EVLA)	Rs. 40,000 – Rs. 90,000	Depends on length treated and consumables. EVLT cost Punjab varies by centre.
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA)	Rs. 45,000 – Rs. 95,000	RFA for varicose veins Punjab; similar to EVLT; device costs affect price.
Sclerotherapy (per session)	Rs. 2,000 – Rs. 15,000	Micro-sclerotherapy for spider veins is lower cost; foam sessions for larger veins cost more.
Ambulatory phlebectomy	Rs. 15,000 – Rs. 45,000	Often combined with EVLT or RFA.
Surgical stripping	Rs. 30,000 – Rs. 80,000	Costs vary with hospitalization and anaesthesia.

These costs are approximate and intended to guide expectations for patients searching "varicose veins treatment cost Punjab", "EVLT cost Punjab", "sclerotherapy cost Punjab" or "varicose veins treatment cost Livasa Hospitals". Actual pricing will be provided after duplex assessment and a personalised treatment plan. Many patients combine procedures (e.g., EVLT + phlebectomy + sclerotherapy), which affects overall cost but often provides the best long-term outcome and lowers recurrence.

---

How to choose the right treatment and specialist

Selecting the most appropriate treatment requires a personalized approach. Criteria to consider when choosing both procedure and provider include:

• Comprehensive duplex assessment: A qualified vein specialist should perform and interpret the ultrasound to identify reflux sources.
• Experience and training: Board-certified vascular surgeons or interventional vascular physicians with specific training in venous procedures achieve better outcomes and fewer complications.
• Access to a full range of therapies: The best centres offer EVLT, RFA, sclerotherapy, ambulatory phlebectomy and surgical options so treatment plans are tailored, not one-size-fits-all.
• Minimally invasive preference: When suitable, choose centres prioritising endovenous techniques that minimise downtime and pain.
• Follow-up care: Post-procedure follow-up, compression guidance and skin care are critical to reduce recurrence and manage symptoms.
• Transparent pricing and informed consent: Ensure you receive a clear estimate and understand benefits, risks and expected recovery.

 

At Livasa Hospitals, the vascular surgery and vascular care teams provide integrated assessment and treatment across Livasa Mohali, Livasa Amritsar, Livasa Hoshiarpur and Livasa Khanna. Our centres offer duplex ultrasound, EVLT, RFA, sclerotherapy, ambulatory phlebectomy and surgical backup. Patients searching for "best varicose veins specialist Punjab" or "varicose veins doctor Punjab" will find multidisciplinary expertise at Livasa Hospitals with personalised care pathways to reduce symptoms, improve appearance and lower ulcer risk.

Questions to ask your specialist during consultation:

• What is the source of my reflux and why did it occur?
• Which treatments are recommended and why?
• What are the expected outcomes and recurrence rates?
• What is the estimated cost and recovery timeline?
• Do you have before-and-after photos of similar cases?

 

---

Recovery, aftercare and preventing recurrence

Recovery is one of the major advantages of modern venous treatments. Most patients treated with EVLT or RFA return to light activity and work within a few days. Proper aftercare reduces bruising, speeds healing and lowers recurrence risk.

Typical post-procedure guidance:

• Compression garments: Wear graduated compression stockings as advised (commonly 1–2 weeks continuously, then daytime use for several weeks).
• Walk regularly: Short, frequent walks help prevent thrombosis and reduce soreness. Avoid prolonged immobilization for the first week.
• Avoid heavy lifting and intense exercise: For 1–2 weeks depending on procedure; your specialist will give personalised restrictions.
• Pain control: Over-the-counter analgesics usually suffice for minimally invasive procedures. Prescription analgesics are rarely needed.
• Wound care: Small phlebectomy incisions heal rapidly; sclerotherapy injection sites may be tender and occasionally pigmented.
• Follow-up duplex ultrasound: Some centres perform an early scan to confirm closure and later scans to check long-term results.

 

Preventative strategies to reduce recurrence:

• Maintain a healthy weight and regular exercise routine
• Avoid prolonged standing or sitting; take micro-breaks during long shifts
• Continue periodic use of compression stockings if you have residual symptoms or job-related risk
• Address risk factors such as smoking and uncontrolled hypertension
• Regular follow-up with your vein clinic for early detection of recurrent reflux

 

Recovery time after traditional surgical stripping is longer, and pain control and wound care are more intensive. For most patients in Punjab seeking minimal downtime for work or family commitments, EVLT/RFA with targeted phlebectomy and sclerotherapy offers an excellent balance of effectiveness and rapid recovery.

---

How Livasa Hospitals approaches varicose veins care

Livasa Hospitals provides an integrated venous care pathway across our Punjab centres — Livasa Mohali, Livasa Amritsar, Livasa Hoshiarpur and Livasa Khanna. Our vascular surgery and interventional teams combine clinical expertise with modern technology, including high-resolution duplex ultrasound, EVLT and RFA devices, foam sclerotherapy, and ambulatory phlebectomy tools. Our guiding principles:

• Patient-centred care: Treatment plans tailored to symptoms, anatomy and patient goals (cosmetic vs symptomatic relief).
• Evidence-based techniques: We prioritise minimally invasive procedures with strong evidence for efficacy.
• Multidisciplinary coordination: Vascular surgeons, dedicated nursing staff, physiotherapists and wound care specialists collaborate for best outcomes.
• Transparent communication: Clear explanation of options, risks and expected recovery including cost transparency for queries like "varicose veins treatment cost Livasa Hospitals".

 

Many patients ask "Which Livasa centre should I visit?" While all four centres provide venous assessment and treatment, complex cases or those requiring advanced interventions are directed to the nearest centre with the required expertise and equipment. You can book a varicose veins consultation Livasa Hospitals online or by phone. For a prompt appointment call +91 80788 80788 or visit our booking portal at https://www.livasahospitals.com/appointment.

Livasa Hospitals is often searched as the "best vein clinic in Punjab" or "best varicose veins specialist Punjab"; our focus is on quality outcomes, patient education and return-to-life recovery.

---

Frequently asked questions and practical tips

Patients commonly ask the following questions. These practical answers are designed to help you prepare for consultation and recovery.

Q: Can varicose veins be treated without surgery?
A: Yes. Most symptomatic varicose veins can be treated with minimally invasive techniques such as EVLT, RFA and sclerotherapy. These are outpatient procedures with local anesthesia and short recovery. Surgery (stripping) is now less common.

Q: How quickly will my legs feel better?
A: Many patients experience reduced aching and heaviness within days of EVLT/RFA. Swelling and cosmetic improvement take a few weeks to months as treated veins shrink and are resorbed.

Q: Are treatments painful?
A: Discomfort is usually mild. Local anaesthesia and sedation are used as needed. Pain relief with simple analgesics is usually enough. Bruising and tightness can occur for 1–2 weeks.

Q: Will varicose veins come back?
A: Treated veins will not reopen, but new reflux can develop in other veins. Proper treatment of the underlying source (saphenous reflux) reduces recurrence, and lifestyle measures further reduce risk.

Q: What about varicose veins during pregnancy?
A: Conservative measures (compression, activity modification) are recommended during pregnancy. Definitive treatments like EVLT, RFA or sclero are generally deferred until after delivery unless urgent complications occur.

---

---

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice. Individual diagnosis and treatment depend on clinical evaluation. Cost ranges are approximate and vary by centre and individual treatment plan; please contact Livasa Hospitals for an exact estimate.