Varicose Vein Stripping

Looking for personal experiences from anyone who has had major vein stripping done. I've been told it's major surgery and so am nervous. Have extreme pain in both my legs and it is affecting the quality of life. I had laser removal done a few years back, but the benefits only lasted a year. Now my legs ache all the time and I am desperate for some relief. I wear compression stockings 24/7. I was told that with vein stripping the surgeon will make about fifty incisions down each leg and remove the veins. The surgery is painful and the recovery is long. Anyone who has had this done, was it worth the surgery and recovery? How many years have you remained pain free? Thanks.