Is Varicose Veins Surgery with 0.1 cm Incision Expensive? Hospitalization Required?

Minimally invasive varicose vein surgery refers to procedures that use tiny needles, lasers, or other techniques to treat superficial vein diseases in the legs, avoiding traditional open surgery.

Today, minimally invasive procedures have become a common and effective treatment for varicose veins.

The cost of minimally invasive varicose vein surgery can vary depending on factors such as the extent of the procedure, duration, number of treatments, and severity of the condition.

Compared to traditional surgery, minimally invasive techniques offer smaller incisions, less trauma, reduced pain, and faster recovery times, allowing patients to return to their daily activities more quickly.

Minimally Invasive Varicose Vein Techniques

Sclerotherapy

This minimally invasive varicose vein surgery procedure involves injecting a medication into the patient's vein.

The medication causes the vein wall to change, leading to the contraction of the vein and the eventual withering of the varicose vein.

This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia with ultrasound guidance and is relatively safe.

Endovenous Laser Treatment

Endovenous laser treatment is a minimally invasive procedure that involves inserting a laser fiber into the main diseased great saphenous vein.

A specific wavelength of light is then delivered to the vein wall, causing it to heat up and contract, so that can eliminate the varicose vein.

Venaseal 

This minimally invasive varicose vein surgery directly uses a physical method to close the diseased vein, thereby eliminating the varicose vein.

Radiofrequency ablation, RF ablation

This minimally invasive varicose vein procedure involves delivering radiofrequency energy through a catheter into the patient's vein.

The heat generated by the radiofrequency current causes the vein to contract, eliminating the varicose vein.

It’s an effective way, but this method is currently less commonly used in Taiwan.

Varicose Vein Surgery Cost Breakdown

In addition to the effectiveness of minimally invasive varicose vein surgery, patients often inquire about the cost of this procedure and whether their insurance will cover it.

Regarding insurance coverage for minimally invasive varicose vein surgery, it depends on the specific insurance policy and the insurance company's guidelines.

Therefore, it is recommended that patients contact their insurance provider before the procedure to understand the details of their coverage.

Each medical institution has its own fee structure for vein treatments. Generally, the cost of minimally invasive varicose vein surgery can be divided into three categories:

• Self-pay Medical Devices and Advanced Assessments
• Fee of the Surgery
• Miscellaneous Fees (Hospitalization and Anesthesia)

Self-pay Medical Devices and Advanced Assessments

This includes laser catheters, vein glue, lower extremity vein health checks, and optional sclerotherapy treatment. Patients can choose these options based on their individual needs and budget.

Fee of the Surgery

If the primary purpose of undergoing minimally invasive varicose vein surgery is for cosmetic reasons, according to regulatory guidelines, patients are required to pay for the surgery out-of-pocket.

Hospitalization and Anesthesia Fees

In addition to the surgical fee itself, the cost of minimally invasive varicose vein surgery also includes hospitalization fees, anesthesia fees, and other miscellaneous expenses, depending on the patient's condition.

Generally, the cost of minimally invasive varicose vein surgery ranges from NT$200,000 to NT$250,000 for foreign patients.

Before undergoing surgery, it is advisable to consult with the hospital to obtain a detailed breakdown of the costs.

Post-operative care for minimally invasive varicose vein surgery

For a smooth minimally invasive varicose vein surgery, only simple needle puncture care and regular follow-up visits are required.

If you have any care-related issues at home, we will contact you to check for any signs of inflammation or infection and take further steps if necessary.

However, for optimal long-term results of minimally invasive varicose vein treatment, patient cooperation is essential.

This includes:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Avoiding prolonged standing or sitting
• Engaging in moderate exercise
• Wearing loose-fitting clothing and shoes

At Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, we use Foam Fibrovein for sclerotherapy or Alcohol.

For those bothered by varicose veins on their legs, we offer comprehensive pre-operative assessments, treatment analysis, and post-operative follow-up.

If you are struggling with this condition, please contact us so we can help you regain your health and confidence.

Varicose Vein Surgery Cost FAQ from PTT

Q: Is varicose vein surgery covered by National Health Insurance?

At Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, hospitalization, anesthesia, and varicose vein laser fees are covered by National Health Insurance.

However, medical devices used in minimally invasive varicose vein surgery (such as laser fiber optic catheters, Venaseal, and sclerotherapy) are not covered by insurance.

The cost of varicose vein laser surgery may vary slightly between hospitals, and it is generally assessed during an outpatient visit.

Q: How long is the hospital stay for varicose vein surgery?

Traditional varicose vein surgery may require a hospital stay of 3-5 days, while minimally invasive varicose vein surgery does not require hospitalization. Patients can usually walk and return home on the same day of the surgery.

Q: Is varicose vein surgery covered by insurance?

Insurance coverage for minimally invasive varicose vein surgery depends on the specific procedures covered by your insurance policy.

It is recommended to carefully review the surgical coverage terms of your policy and consult with your insurance company before the surgery.

Q: Can foreigners undergo varicose vein surgery in Taiwan?

Foreign patients are eligible for varicose vein surgery at our institution in Taiwan.

A preliminary MRI scan of the pelvis and lower limbs is required one month prior to the procedure.

Additionally, a comprehensive medical history should be submitted online to facilitate the selection of an appropriate surgical plan.