Myth: Every Varicose Vein Patient Must Undergo Surgery
A common fear among patients is that once they visit a hospital for varicose veins, they will inevitably be advised surgery. This is a myth. Surgery is not necessary for all varicose vein patients, especially when they consult experienced doctors at reputed hospitals.
The Reality: Most Varicose Veins Do Not Require Surgery
Real-world data clearly proves this point.
At Avis Hospital, one of India’s largest vascular and varicose vein institutions:
- 57,000 patients were evaluated over the last three years
- Only 6,700 patients underwent surgery
That means less than 10% of patients actually needed a surgical procedure.
Why Surgery Is Not Always Required
Varicose veins vary widely in severity. Many patients:
- Have early-stage disease
- Experience mild or manageable symptoms
- Improve with lifestyle changes and medical management
In such cases, surgery is not immediately required.
Non-Surgical Management May Include
- Regular walking and exercise
- Weight control
- Compression stockings
- Lifestyle and work habit modification
- Periodic monitoring
Many patients recover or remain stable with these measures alone.
When Can Treatment Be Postponed?
If the condition is not urgent and there are:
- No ulcers
- No severe skin changes
- No disabling pain
Treatment can often be safely postponed, with regular follow-ups. Immediate surgery is not mandatory for everyone.
Good Doctors Don’t Push Unnecessary Surgery
The idea that every patient with varicose veins is advised surgery usually comes from fear or misinformation. In reality:
- Good hospitals focus on necessity, not numbers
- Good doctors recommend surgery only when clearly required
- Decisions are based on symptoms, severity, and risk—not just scans or visible veins