“The biggest misconception is that laser surgery doesn’t help with serious vein problems — the truth is the exact opposite.” – emphasizes Dr. Dario Jocić, vascular surgeon and leading expert in the region in the field laser vein treatmentDuring more than 10 years of work in the clinic Primus Medical in Podgorica, Dr. Jocić has performed thousands of successful laser surgeries, permanently resolving some of the most complex cases of venous disease.
What are the most common misconceptions people have about laser vein surgery?
Many people think that surgery is painful, difficult and requires a long recovery. In reality, it is a minimally invasive procedure, the patient is awake, there are no incisions or scars, and after 20 minutes after the procedure, he can walk completely normally. Laser is today the gold standard in vein treatment, because it gives the best short-term and long-term results.
What does laser surgery look like?
Laser vein surgery involves virtually no incisions — only very small punctures. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, which allows the patient to get up and walk immediately after the procedure. This avoids the risks associated with general anesthesia.
"The procedure is performed under local anesthesia — the patient is awake and pain-free"
The procedure on both legs takes about an hour. When we operate on just one leg, it usually takes about forty minutes. I always tell patients: “Just come in, we can fix the problem in 40 minutes to an hour, and that’s practically all that is required of you.”
After the procedure, it is recommended to wear compression stockings for two weeks, as well as mandatory walks immediately after the operation — especially in the first two to three days, when it is desirable to move a little more. After that, patients return to their usual life and work activities very quickly.
Is laser surgery appropriate for all patients with varicose veins, even those with wounds?
Even patients who have venous ulcers or severely enlarged veins may be candidates for laser surgery. For them, laser surgery is often the best and most effective option, especially in the most severe and complex cases. Patients with venous ulcers are very difficult to operate on with classic, conventional surgery. The reason is simple: any wound that lasts a long time contains certain bacteria. If we make an incision during classic surgery, there is a high risk of infection.
With laser surgery, this risk is practically non-existent. The procedure is short, minimally invasive, and that is why patients with venous ulcers are absolutely indicated for this type of procedure.
For patients with larger nodules or extremely complex findings — laser surgery remains an option. In essence, there is no finding that is “too complicated” for this method. The only important question is whether the patient really needs surgery or not. If so, laser surgery is the safest and most effective choice. If the patient is not a candidate for laser surgery, he or she is not a candidate for conventional surgery.
"Both extremely large veins and venous ulcers can be successfully treated with laser"
Can diabetes or high blood pressure delay surgery or affect the ability to perform the procedure?
Diabetes itself is not a contraindication for laser vein surgery. In laser surgery, everything is done under local anesthesia, which is significantly easier and safer for patients with concomitant diseases. Of course, the patient's overall health is taken into account — if the patient has additional therapy, the doctor consults with other specialists and the therapy is adapted as necessary.
Laser vein surgery is considered suitable for older patients and those with chronic diseases because it is a procedure performed under local anesthesia. The patient returns to normal activities very quickly, and older people often ask: "Can I stand it?"
"If you can cook lunch or go to the store — you can do this procedure." Recovery is easy and quick.”
When can patients who work "on their feet" return to work — hairdressers, cooks, waiters?
These are the most common groups of patients. For such professions, it is usually recommended to return to work after 5-7 days. The most important thing during the recovery period is walking - the emphasis is on movement, not standing still or lying down. The key to successful recovery is for the patient not to stand for long periods of time, not to lie down, but to move and walk moderately. Sick leave is generally not necessary.
What happens if varicose veins are not treated on time?
Untreated varicose veins can lead to serious complications of venous disease. The most common is thrombophlebitis - the formation of blood clots in the superficial veins. It is usually unpleasant and painful, but most often it is not dangerous as long as the thrombus remains in the superficial system. The problem arises if the clot spreads to the deep veins, because then it can represent a serious health condition. Untreated veins lead to chronic changes in the skin. Some of these changes are irreversible, and even after surgery, permanent hyperpigmentation or scarring may remain. There are also venous ulcers - a serious, long-term and persistent complication that significantly impairs the quality of life.
Can varicose veins reappear after surgery?
Varicose veins are successfully treated with surgery, but like any disease — there is a possibility of recurrence, or reoccurrence. However, it is important to emphasize a few things. New veins do not appear in the same place, but in other segments of the venous system. Regular check-ups are key — patients who come for a check-up once a year or as soon as they notice a change have a much better long-term result. If the problem is detected in time, it can usually be solved very easily, without the need for repeated laser surgery.
"Veins don't come back — the disease returns if it's not treated in time"
Primus Medical is the leading clinic in terms of the number of minimally invasive vein surgeries in Montenegro. The combination of a top surgeon, advanced technology and a modern approach to treatment make it the clinic that patients trust the most when it comes to treating venous diseases. Dr. Dario Jocić will be back in practice on December 19, 20, 21 and 22. Find out more and book your appointment for a specialist examination that includes a blood vessel doppler - by calling 063 21 31 21.
Primus Medical
Bulevar Pera Cetkovica 61, Podgorica
📞 +382 63 213 121
(Primus Medical)
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