Introduction
Seeking affordable options for varicocele surgery? Well, the cost might make you anxious, and find it difficult to choose the right option.
Let's learn what the procedure is about!
Varicocele is a condition where the testicular veins are abnormally dilated and cause infertility. Well, it's a pretty big issue that should be treated on time.
Did you know? India offers affordable treatment options for varicocele surgery at the lowest cost as compared to other Western countries. With top urologists, internationally accredited hospitals, advanced technologies, and care, India has become a preferred destination for surgery.
Want to learn about the varicocele surgery cost in India, factors, and other major details? Read this article till the end.
What is Varicocele Surgery?
Varicoceles are veins in the scrotum, which is a pouch of skin where the testicles are held, that become swollen or enlarged. However, this is a common issue, as it’s estimated that 10 to 15 out of every 100 men get a varicocele. Additionally, varicoceles are similar to varicose veins you might get in your legs; if the veins become swollen and twisted, they are visible through your skin. Yet, they are larger than they should be, but these veins can cause blood to build up in your scrotum or even flow backward into the testicles.
However, in most cases, varicoceles don’t cause any issues or symptoms, but there might be complications such as:
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Pain in the scrotum
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Male fertility
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Impaired or low testosterone production
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Heavy feeling in the scrotum.
Note
: A Study shows that it can be the cause of infertility in about 40% of men who are willing to conceive their first child, yet the count goes up is about 80% when it comes to conceiving a second child.
When is Varicocelectomy Surgery Needed?
It might be recommended for the following reasons, which include:
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Reasons
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Description
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Persistent pain
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When a varicocele causes persistent pain in the scrotum that gets worse with physical activity or prolonged standing.
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Testicular atrophy
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Varicoceles can lead to testicular shrinkage, and surgery may be recommended to prevent further testicular damage and restore normal testicular function.
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Fertility issues
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Varicoceles are the most common cause of male infertility, which directly affects sperm production and quality. However, surgery might be recommended, especially if other potential causes for the varicoceles have been ruled out.
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Abnormalities of physical examination
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Surgery might be recommended if varicoceles are detected during a physical examination and are associated with symptoms like discomfort or testicular atrophy.
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Who is a Good Candidate for a Varicocelectomy?
Varicoceles occur in about 15% of adult men and 20% of teens. However, if it does not cause any discomfort or symptoms and if it doesn’t cause any issues, then the doctor will recommend that you leave it to prevent the risks of surgery.
However, varicoceles often appear on the left side of your scrotum, and those that grow on the right side are mostly caused by growths or tumors. If you get a varicocele on the right side, then your doctor may want to perform a varicocelectomy and also remove the growth.
Does Removing Varicoceles Improve Fertility?
Yes, removing varicoceles improves fertility. A study involving 540 men with varicocele who underwent surgery showed positive changes in semen quality and conception rates after 1 and 2 years postoperatively.
Some positive changes include:
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Over 50% showed an increase in the total number of moving sperm.
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The success rate of pregnancy has reached 36.6%
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Patients who were candidates for IVF or ICSI are now 31% eligible for intrauterine insemination IUI.
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Of all the IUI candidates, over 42% have achieved the possibility of spontaneous pregnancy.
What are the Causes of Varicoceles?
Well, the actual cause of varicocele is still unknown, but there are a few common base points which include:
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Misfunctioning or testicular valves
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Blood flow problem
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Blood clots
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Health deficiency of the testicles
However, varicocele causes some complications in men, which include infertility, a low sperm count, decreased testosterone levels, and lower sperm quality. Yet, if these are left untreated, they get damaged permanently.
What are the grades of a varicocele?
Healthcare providers use grades to detect the severity of varicocele, which include:
◾Grade 0
: It's the smallest type of varicocele that can’t be diagnosed during physical examination, but can be visible on an ultrasound.
◾Grade I
: In this, a doctor can’t see it, but they can feel it when you perform the Valsalva maneuver.
◾Grade II
: In this, the doctor can feel the varicocele even when you’re not performing the Valsalva maneuver,
tubes
but it’s still not visible.
◾Grade III:
This is the largest varicocele that your doctor can easily feel and see.
How Common are Varicoceles?
Varicoceles are very common, but they are not dangerous, and 15% of all men get varicoceles. However, most often it goes unnoticed throughout their life, and it won’t cause any problems.
Cost Breakdown of Varicocele Surgery in India
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Cost Component
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Details
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Estimated Cost in USD
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Pre-operative Consultation & Diagnosis
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Consultations, X-rays, MRI scans, blood tests
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250 USD
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Surgery Costs
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Includes surgeon fees, type of surgery, and hospital stay
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3500 USD
|
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Rehabilitation and Follow-up
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Physiotherapy sessions, medications, supportive devices, and follow-up visits
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Variable by Procedure
|
Note
: The estimated cost of varicocele surgery in India will be provided you after diagnosing your condition, so that you can make an informed decision.
Cost Comparison of Varicocele Surgery in India vs. Other Western Countries
Here is the cost comparison of varicocele surgery in India vs other Western countries:
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Country
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Cost Structure
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India
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3500 USD
|
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United States
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5000-15000 USD
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Germany
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8500 USD
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Turkey
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5500 USD
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Factors that can Alter the Cost of Varicocele Surgery
In this procedure, there are different types of surgical options for treating varicocele which include open surgery, laparoscopic surgery, and microsurgical varicocelectomy, and the choice of treatment option affects the cost of the surgery because advanced techniques are more expensive.
The type of healthcare facility can affect the cost of the treatment because hospitals that are accredited by international organizations charge higher fees for their services and quality care.
The experience and reputation of the surgeon who is performing the surgery can directly affect the cost of the treatment because highly skilled and internationally trained surgeons charge higher fees for their services.
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Anesthesia and Medical Staff
The fees for anesthesia services and medical staff can affect the procedure because the need for anesthesiologists, nurses, and technicians directly contributes to the cost.
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Pre-operative Assessments
Before surgery, you may undergo several assessments, which include imaging investigations, laboratory tests, and specialist consultations, and these tests directly affect the cost of the procedure as well.
The length of hospital stay can also affect the cost of the surgery because extended hospital stays can increase room charges, nursing care, and post-operative monitoring expenses.
The cost of prescribed medications for the recovery process and any implants that are used during the surgery can contribute to the overall expenses.
How Varicocele Surgery is Performed?
Before the Surgery
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You need to tell your doctor about any medications that you’re taking or any supplements, and ask to stop taking blood thinners and other recommendations if you do so.
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You will get advice on what you should eat or drink and when to stop to prepare for the surgery.
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Kindly have someone drive you home after surgery.
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On the day of your surgery, when you arrive at the hospital, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown.
During the Surgery
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When the surgery starts, you’ll lie down on a surgical table and get general anesthesia through an IV line that helps you sleep during surgery.
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Once you are asleep, the surgeon will use a knife called a scalpel and make an incision in your scrotum and access your varicocele, and then they will cut the veins and seal off the ends.
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Sealing the ends causes blood to flow into other healthy veins in your scrotum.
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Once the treatment is done, the surgeon may place small silicone tubes in your affected area to drain blood and fluid, and they’ll stitch the tubes into place.
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Lastly, the surgeon will stitch the incision closed.
After the Surgery
Surgery might take 2 hours to complete, and after that, you’ll be placed in a recovery room until you wake up there. You need to stay about one or two hours before the healthcare provider clears you to go home.
For the recovery process, you will be instructed to follow the guidelines carefully, which include:
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Take your medications and antibiotics on time
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Take your pain medications to manage your pain after surgery.
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Follow all the instructions given by your doctor carefully.
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Use an ice pack on your scrotum for 10 minutes to keep swelling down.
Types of Varicocele Surgery
For varicocele surgery, the type of surgery used is based on the severity and the patient's needs. Here are the types of varicocele surgery, which include:
It’s a traditional procedure where the surgeon cuts your skin and tissues, which provides a clear view of the area that is affected
.
However, the open surgery approaches include:
○ Inguinal Ligation
: In this, the healthcare provider will access your varicocele through your inguinal canal, which is your groin near the lowest part of your stomach.
○ Subinguinal ligation
: The healthcare provider will access your varicocele from your groin below your inguinal ligament.
○ Retroperitoneal high ligation
: The surgeon will access your varicocele from behind your peritoneum, which is a transparent membrane that lines your abdomen.
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Laparoscopic Varicocelectomy
It's a surgical procedure that is performed with the help of a laparoscopy, which provides a clear image of the blood vessels and other internal organs. Under this process, various cuts are made around the abdominal area through which the laparoscopy surgical instruments are inserted to perform the procedure.
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Microscopic Varicocelectomy
It's a minimally invasive procedure that helps the surgeon treat varicocele through an incision like a keyhole. The cuts are made around the abdomen or scrotum, and a microscope is used to identify the swollen, enlarged, or twisted vein, and then the vein is ligated properly without damaging the other blood vessels.
It's a non-invasive treatment process for varicocele, which involves using small coils that are inserted in the vein through the groin region to block the veins that are causing varicocele. However, it can be done without making an incision with the help of a catheter and imaging guidance.
Best Doctor for Varicocele Surgery in India
Best Hospital for Varicocele Surgery in India
Why Choose India for Varicocele Surgery?
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The cost of varicocele surgery in India is significantly cheaper as compared to Western countries, which makes it an attractive option for patients worldwide.
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Indian hospitals have some skilled and highly experienced urologists and surgeons who are trained internationally in advanced techniques such as microsurgical and laparoscopic varicocelectomy.
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Indian hospitals are equipped with the latest advancements, such as robotic surgery systems, advanced imaging techniques that are widely used, and other tools that help to enhance precision and improve outcomes.
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Additionally, there are minimally invasive approaches also available, like laparoscopic and microscopic varicocelectomy, which are favored in India and offer smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery.
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Furthermore, Indian hospitals offer comprehensive care from diagnosis and pre-operative assessment to post-operative care and follow-ups, which ensure a smooth and positive patient experience.
Why Choose RIHLATMED for Varicocele Surgery in India?
•
Team of Top Urologists
We recommend doctors having more than 20 years of experience in treating varicocele.
• JCI/NABH Accredited Hospitals
We have partnered with hospitals that feature state-of-the-art facilities equipped with the latest technologies, including robotics, machine learning, and cutting-edge diagnostic and therapeutic equipment, all designed to provide you with comprehensive and personalized care.
• Other Benefits
We offer prompt and detailed responses, accurate cost estimates, assistance in obtaining medical visas, accommodation in India, and priority appointment scheduling with doctors. Additionally, we ensure a seamless arrival experience in India by providing airport pickup, hotel drop-off, hospitalization assistance, and much more.
Conclusion
Varicocelectomy is a surgical procedure that is safe and has a high chance of improving your fertility and reducing the complications of blocked blood flow into your reproductive organs. However, there are risks associated with surgery, and it might not be able to restore your proper fertility, so you can ask your doctor about the complications and aftercare process.
Disclaimer
The information available in this article is about the procedure and is only for general purposes, which means it does not provide accurate cost estimates and other details. Getting a professional opinion is a must, so if you want it, then we can help you. Connect
RIHLATMED
now.
