Learn about Shingles Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Shingles and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Shingles

Shingles, medically known as herpes zoster, is not a procedure but a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. A dermatologist plays a crucial role in its diagnosis and management. The primary treatment involves a comprehensive approach to reduce pain, shorten the duration of the blistering rash, and prevent complications like postherpetic neuralgia. This typically includes a prompt prescription of antiviral medications, such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir, alongside pain management strategies ranging from over-the-counter analgesics to prescription nerve pain medications. Dermatologists also provide expert care for the skin lesions, offering guidance on wound care to prevent bacterial superinfection and managing any resulting scarring or pigmentation changes.

Key Highlights

    Prompt antiviral treatment can shorten the duration of the shingles outbreak and reduce severity.Effective management of acute pain and prevention of long-term nerve pain (postherpetic neuralgia).Expert care for skin lesions to minimize scarring and prevent secondary bacterial infections.Guidance on supportive care to improve comfort during the active phase of the illness.Counseling on vaccination (Shingrix) to prevent future occurrences, especially in older adults.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Presentation of a painful, blistering rash that follows a dermatomal pattern (band-like on one side of the body or face).
  • Diagnosis of active herpes zoster infection confirmed by clinical examination, and sometimes viral culture or PCR.
  • Patients experiencing significant pain, itching, or discomfort associated with the rash.
  • Individuals at high risk for complications, such as those over 50, immunocompromised, or with rashes near the eyes (herpes zoster ophthalmicus).
  • Development of complications like bacterial skin infections, scarring, or early signs of postherpetic neuralgia.

How to prepare

  • No specific medical preparation is required, but patients should be ready to describe their complete medical history and current medications.
  • It is helpful to note the onset and progression of the rash and pain before the appointment.
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the affected area for examination.
  • Do not apply heavy creams or occlusive bandages to the blisters before the visit, as this can hinder examination.
  • Be prepared to discuss any allergies, especially to antiviral medications.

Risks & possible complications

  • Postherpetic neuralgia: Persistent nerve pain that can last for months or years after the rash clears.
  • Bacterial superinfection of the skin blisters, which may require antibiotic treatment.
  • Scarring or changes in skin pigmentation at the site of the rash.
  • Herpes zoster ophthalmicus: Eye involvement that can lead to vision problems if not treated urgently.
  • Ramsay Hunt syndrome: Involvement of facial nerves causing facial paralysis and hearing issues.
  • Rare neurological complications like encephalitis or myelitis.
  • Potential side effects from antiviral medications, such as headache, nausea, or kidney function changes.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • The rash typically crusts over and heals within 2 to 4 weeks with treatment.
  • Keep the rash clean and dry. Gently wash with mild soap and water, then pat dry.
  • Apply cool, wet compresses or calamine lotion to soothe itching and discomfort.
  • Take all prescribed antiviral and pain medications exactly as directed, even if symptoms improve.
  • Avoid scratching the blisters to prevent infection and scarring.
  • Wear loose-fitting, cotton clothing to avoid irritation.
  • Rest is important, but light activity is encouraged as tolerated.
  • Follow up with your dermatologist as recommended, especially if pain persists after the rash heals.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: Usually 0 days (outpatient)
  • checked Expected recovery time: 2 to 4 weeks for rash healing; pain management may continue longer

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering shingles in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for shingles compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 16 – USD 87 Usually 0 days (outpatient) ~ 2 to 4 weeks for rash healing; pain management may continue longer Know More
Turkey USD 121 – USD 644 Usually 0 days (outpatient) ~ 2 to 4 weeks for rash healing; pain management may continue longer Know More

Top hospitals for Shingles in India

These partner hospitals in India have dedicated dermatology teams and experience managing patients undergoing shingles.

Manipal Hospital Jaipur

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Dermatologists for Shingles

Explore experienced dermatologists who regularly perform shingles and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Khushboo Jha
  • 33 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Metro Hospital Faridabad

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Dr. Shruti Lakhanpal Tandon
  • 31 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Metro Hospital Noida Sector 11

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Dr. Kuna Ramadas
  • 31 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar

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Dr. Sugandhan S
  • 22 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Tamil, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Miot Hospital Chennai

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Dr. Raina N. Nahar
  • 21 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Nanavati Hospital Mumbai

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Dr. Vandana Punjabi
  • 21 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Nanavati Hospital Mumbai

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Dr. Shazia Zaidi
  • 11 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Metro Hospital Noida Sector 11

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Dr. Kalpana Sarangi
  • 11 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Nanavati Hospital Mumbai

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Dr. Alia Abbas Rizivi
  • 10 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Metro Hospital Noida Sector 11

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Dr. Himani Mavi
  • 10 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Metro Hospital Noida Sector 11

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Dr. Vindhya Raparla
  • 8 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Tamil, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Miot Hospital Chennai

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Dr. Deepika J Sanbal
  • 8 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar

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Dr. S. Sushma Sukruthi
  • 7 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar

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Dr. Sushmitha Asokan
  • 4 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Tamil, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Miot Hospital Chennai

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Dr. Gargi Taneja
  • 6 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Gurgaon

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Dr. Aishwarya Devaraj
  • 9 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Gurgaon

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Dr. Shankar D Desai D
  • 41 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram

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Dr. Pankaj Kanti Jha
  • 26 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Salt Lake

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Dr. Col. Aradhana Sood
  • 27 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Doddaballapur

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Dr. Alok Kumar Roy
  • 44 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Salt Lake

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