Endovenous Laser Vein Treatment (EVLT) for Varicose Veins

Endovenous laser ablation (EVLT), also known as endovenous laser treatment, is a widely used, minimally invasive procedure that uses targeted laser energy to treat varicose veins. Also referred to as endovenous laser therapy, this thermal-ablation treatment closes veins that no longer function properly from the inside. 

The EVLT procedure treats varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) by targeting the damaged veins and rerouting blood flow. It alleviates painful, visible vein symptoms, including leg swelling, cramping, aching, itching, skin discoloration, and bulging veins. Laser therapy for varicose veins can also reduce the risk of developing serious health conditions, like venous ulcers and deep vein thrombosis (DVT), in the future.

How Endovenous Laser Treatment Works

The endovenous laser therapy procedure is typically performed by vein specialists in an outpatient setting, requiring only local anesthesia. 

Using endovenous laser treatment for varicose veins involves three main steps:

1. A vein specialist guides a thin laser fiber into the diseased vein
2. They use laser heat to cause the vein walls to collapse and close
3. Blood is redirected to nearby healthy veins

Watch our video on the EVLT procedure to learn more about what happens during this laser treatment for varicose veins:

Benefits of Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins

Varicose veins endovenous laser treatment is one of the most effective procedures for treating damaged veins, the root cause of painful varicose vein symptoms. Clinical studies show that it offers long-lasting results in most patients with minimal risk of side effects.¹

Additional benefits of endovenous laser vein treatment include:

• Minimally invasive treatment
• Shorter recovery compared to surgery
• No incisions, scarring, or stitches
• Decreased risk of DVT
• Improved circulation and reduced appearance of visible veins
• High success rate for sealing problematic veins to redirect blood flow to healthier pathways

Treating varicose veins with endovenous laser treatment effectively relieves pain and discomfort while reducing bulging veins.

What Happens During the Endovenous Laser Therapy Procedure?

Since endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) is minimally invasive, the entire procedure takes less than an hour. There is also a lower risk of complications compared to traditional surgical options, especially when patients follow the pre- and post-treatment instructions provided by their vein specialist.

Understand everything you need to know about endovenous laser treatment for varicose veins​, before, during, and after the procedure.

Before the EVLT Procedure

Since endovenous laser therapy is a quick, non-surgical procedure performed at our outpatient vein clinics, preparation instructions are usually minimal. It’s best to avoid shaving your legs within 72 hours of the procedure to reduce the risk of infection and to wear loose, comfortable clothing. Eating a light meal and staying well hydrated before the appointment is encouraged. 

Right before the treatment, a vein specialist will perform an ultrasound to map the affected veins and confirm venous reflux. The EVLT procedure does not require general anesthesia. Instead, a local anesthetic is administered, allowing patients to remain awake and comfortable.

During the EVLT Procedure

During EVLT, a catheter is inserted into the vein using ultrasound guidance. The laser fiber delivers controlled energy pulses that heat the vein walls, causing the vein to close. The entire endovenous laser therapy procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.

After the EVLT Procedure and Post-Care 

Following the varicose veins endovenous laser ablation, patients can resume light activity immediately and return home following a brief observation period.  Walking is encouraged immediately with a full return to daily activities within 24 to 48 hours. Strenuous exercise can generally be reintroduced after two weeks. 

Within one to two weeks, any mild bruising, swelling, tenderness, or tightening in the treated area should resolve. To relieve any discomfort during this time, you may use over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses.

To support recovery, patients should:

• Wear compression socks as directed
• Walk for 10–15 minutes every couple of hours
• Avoid prolonged standing, strenuous exercise, and air travel for two weeks
• Keep the treated area dry for 48 hours and avoid baths or pools for 7–10 days

Since the EVLT procedure does not use general anesthesia, patients may drive themselves home after treatment.

How Long After Endovenous Laser Treatment​ Will I See Results?

Many patients experience symptom relief within one to two weeks after treatment. Cosmetic improvements, such as reduced bulging veins, may continue to develop over several weeks as the body absorbs the treated vein.

Follow-up ultrasounds are used to confirm that the vein has successfully closed in the months following the EVLT procedure.

How Long Does Endovenous Laser Vein Treatment Last?

Endovenous laser treatment​ (EVLT) permanently seals any treated veins. Most patients experience lasting symptom relief and improved leg comfort. While recurrence is uncommon, follow-up care and healthy lifestyle habits, such as wearing compression socks, may help prevent new varicose veins.

Is EVLT Covered by Insurance?

The EVLT procedure is usually covered by insurance when deemed medically necessary, not for cosmetic purposes. Coverage typically requires documentation of venous reflux and symptoms via ultrasound imaging, so patients should confirm with their insurance provider in advance.

USA Vein Clinics participates with most insurance plans, including Medicaid and some Medicare plans. We also have affordable payment options available for uncovered insurance costs. 

Who’s a Good Candidate for Endovenous Laser Ablation?

Most adults with symptomatic varicose veins or venous reflux are good candidates for endovenous laser treatment (EVLT). EVLT is specifically designed to treat failed valves in the saphenous vein, which is the most common cause of painful, bulging veins.

While endovenous laser treatment is highly effective for larger, deeper vessels, it is not used to treat spider veins or small surface veins. Additionally, it may not be appropriate for individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or experiencing significant deep venous obstructions. A consultation with a vein specialist is required to confirm if this is the right path for your specific vascular health. 

Talk to a Specialist About Finding The Right Varicose Vein Treatment for You

Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) is a safe, FDA-approved option for relieving symptoms of varicose veins. With minimal downtime and long-lasting results, EVLT offers a convenient alternative to surgery. 

Along with EVLT, we provide a range of non-surgical vein treatments, such as:

• Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT)
• ClariVein®
• Varithena®
• VenaSeal™ 
• Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy (USGS)
• Visual Sclerotherapy

Our specialists at USA Vein Clinics create personalized treatment plans using advanced, minimally invasive procedures. With over 160 locations nationwide, expert care is always close to home, so schedule your consultation with USA Vein Clinics today to see if laser treatment for varicose veins, or any of our other non-surgical vein treatments, is right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About EVLT

How long does it take to recover from EVLT?

Recovery from the EVLT procedure typically takes about 2 weeks. Using compression stockings and taking regular walks can further support recovery.

How successful is EVLT treatment?

Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) has a success rate of up to 98%2 and is considered one of the most effective treatments for varicose veins.

What are the risks of endovenous laser treatment?

The risks of endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) are rare, but can include skin discoloration, nerve irritation, or blood clots. Patients can reduce their risk of complications by following post-treatment instructions.

Does EVLT Hurt?

Endovenous laser treatment​ (EVLT) generally does not hurt, with most patients experiencing little to no pain during the procedure. Some may experience a brief pulling sensation or tightness when the vein is accessed, similar to IV placement.

How does laser treatment for varicose veins compare to other varicose vein treatments?

Compared with other varicose vein treatments, endovenous laser ablation (EVLT) is one of the most effective for patients with large varicose veins. However, multiple treatment options are available through USA Vein Clinics, and the key is choosing the right one for each patient.

Can varicose veins come back after endovenous laser ablation (EVLT)?

Varicose veins are unlikely to come back after endovenous laser ablation (EVLT), given its high success rate. However, to maintain healthy veins, creating an individual treatment plan with a vein specialist is a good idea. 

Sources

1. Arash Mohammadi Tofigh, Hamed Tahmasebi, and Javad Zebarjadi, “Comparing the success rate and side effects of endovenous laser ablation and radiofrequency ablation to treat varicose veins in the lower limbs: A randomized clinical trial,” Journal of Lasers in Medical Sciences.
2. N Nwaejike, PD Srodon, and C Kyriakides, “5-years of endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) for the treatment of varicose veins – a prospective study,” International Journal of Surgery.