Endovenous Laser Ablation Therapy

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Fenton, Sterling, Livonia, MI and San Diego, CA

Endovenous Laser Ablation Therapy Skin & Vein Center

Endovenous laser ablation therapy (EVLT) is a modern medical treatment designed to address varicose veins, which are swollen and twisted veins that can appear blue or dark purple. (1) This procedure uses advanced laser energy to effectively close off these problematic veins, allowing blood to be redirected to healthier veins nearby. Many individuals seek endovenous laser ablation therapy not only for health reasons—such as improving circulation—but also for cosmetic enhancement, as it can significantly reduce the appearance of unsightly varicose veins. (2)

In addition to being unsightly, varicose veins can cause physical issues like poor circulation, heavy, restless, or achy legs, or even swelling and burning after standing for long periods. (1) At Skin & Vein Center, we can address these issues with effective solutions like laser treatments. If you are interested in exploring your treatment options and developing a customized EVLT plan, please take a moment to schedule a consultation online. If you have any further questions, please call our San Diego office directly at (619) 704-2100.

About Varicose Vein Treatment

Many people think that varicose veins are simply a cosmetic issue and believe that they have to live with unsightly and often painful veins. Varicose vein disease, however, can be a serious medical condition and should not be left untreated. If you are feeling the signs of vein disease, now is the time to get an effective EVLT treatment to help alleviate these symptoms.

With new technology comes great improvements in treating vein diseases and disorders, and endovenous laser ablation therapy is one such improvement. This minimally invasive treatment uses an ultrasound-guided technique that uses lasers to help rid your body of painful varicose veins. (2)

Varicose veins are enlarged veins that protrude in a gnarled bunch, caused by blood flow backing up in faulty or weak veins, and can be extremely painful. (1) Not just cosmetically unappealing, varicose veins can be signs that something more serious is going on in your body, and proper diagnosis and treatment are of the utmost importance.

At the Skin & Vein Center, we use a step-by-step process to treat varicose veins. An initial exam is done to determine the venous insufficiencies and the extent of the vein problems. This is done through ultrasound mapping. Should a venous reflux be found, the vein can be ablated using endovenous laser ablation treatment.

Benefits

Varicose vein treatment with endovenous laser ablation therapy offers patients many different advantages. Under the expert care of the specialists at Skin & Vein Center, our patients can benefit from:

  • Minimally invasive procedure: Unlike traditional surgeries, this therapy requires no major incisions, meaning less trauma to surrounding tissues.
  • Quick recovery time: Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days, enjoying quicker healing compared to conventional treatments.
  • Local anesthesia use: The procedure typically involves local anesthesia, making it comfortable for patients without the risks associated with general anesthesia.
  • Effective varicose vein treatment: Studies show high success rates in eliminating symptoms associated with varicose veins.
  • Improved blood circulation: Closing off dysfunctional veins enhances overall vascular health and reduces chronic complications.
  • Cosmetic enhancement: The reduction or elimination of visible bulging veins improves aesthetic appearance and boosts confidence.
  • Ultrasound guidance: Utilizing ultrasound allows for accurate targeting of the affected veins, ensuring that the right areas are treated.
  • Low risk of complications: Endovenous laser ablation therapy has been shown to have fewer complications compared to traditional surgery, enhancing patient safety.

Candidates

Patients with visible varicose veins that cause chronic pain, heaviness, or discomfort in the legs or are a source of embarrassment make ideal candidates for this treatment. Patients should have a formal diagnosis of varicose veins before undergoing this treatment. Additionally, they should be in good general health, have realistic expectations for their results, and be willing to closely follow all preparation and recovery instructions. A comprehensive evaluation with one of the specialists at Skin & Vein Center will help to further determine each patient’s candidacy.

Personal Consultation

During your initial consultation, we will perform a detailed assessment of your medical history, examine your legs, and discuss your concerns regarding varicose veins. This visit will involve performing an ultrasound examination to understand blood flow and identify dysfunctional veins.

Based on this evaluation, your specialist will provide tailored recommendations for your case, discussing whether endovenous laser ablation therapy or an alternative procedure is most suitable to meet your goals. It is important to openly communicate your expectations and inquire about the process during your visit.

You can schedule your consultation online by submitting our contact form or by calling our San Diego office directly at (619) 704-2100.

Preparation

Preparation is an important part of your EVLT treatment. After your consultation, you will receive a set preparation plan that accounts for your unique case, medical history, and goals. Following this closely will ensure a smooth and effective treatment. You may be asked to adjust your medication intake, especially if you take blood-thinning medications or supplements. We recommend that you arrange transportation home from your procedure regardless of whether you receive sedation or not. You should also allocate a few days free of work or other obligations to focus on resting. If you have any questions about your preparation requirements, please contact our office by calling (619) 704-2100.

Procedure

The endovenous laser ablation procedure is a simple process done as an outpatient procedure with little to no pain. A local anesthetic is used to minimize the pain of the needle. No incision is made, just a small puncture near the knee, and the procedure has a short recovery time. During the procedure, a needle is injected into the vein with a tiny laser fiber that emits pulses of light inside the vein. (2) The vein then collapses and seals itself, eventually being absorbed into the body. After the endovenous laser ablation treatment is over, compression stockings are worn for some time to ensure faster healing. But even if not worn, healing will improve, just at a slower rate. (3)

The process will take about an hour and also has a nearly 100% success rate. (2,3) Patients will start to experience improvements immediately, while some symptoms may take a couple of weeks to disappear. You will be able to return to your normal schedule almost immediately, and athletic activities can be undertaken within three to four days.

Other sclerotherapy and/or ambulatory phlebectomy procedures are often done either at the same time as EVLT or within one to two weeks to treat other veins, such as branch varicose veins.

What Makes EVLT So Innovative?

Earlier treatments for varicose veins were almost worse than the disease itself and involved cutting long incisions in the skin under general anesthesia and stripping the veins from the legs. Extended recovery periods were required, and the scars left behind, while not as unsightly as the gnarled veins, were still off-putting and undesirable. The negative factors of varicose vein treatment meant many people would put off treatment or avoid it altogether, thereby increasing their risks of the problem growing worse or even missing out on being diagnosed with a more serious condition. Today, however, with endovenous laser ablation, the procedure is minimally invasive and procrastination is no longer an issue.

Recovery

Following your endovenous laser ablation therapy, you will be monitored for a brief period before going home. Normal post-operative care includes wearing compression stockings to aid in recovery and prevent complications, taking over-the-counter medication if necessary, and gradually returning to normal activities within a few days (although avoiding strenuous exercise for a short time is recommended). Regular follow-up appointments with your Skin & Vein Center specialist will help us monitor your healing and ensure the proper results.

Results

Endovenous Laser Ablation Therapy Skin & Vein Center

After the vein has collapsed, patients will notice an immediate improvement in blood flow, and the afflicted areas will have a smoother, more attractive look; however, multiple treatments may be needed to end the problem completely. After endovenous laser ablation therapy, there may be some slight bruising and swelling, but overall recovery is almost immediate, and the patient will be able to resume normal activities upon walking out of the office. The success rate for this treatment is very high, with patients reporting extreme satisfaction with the outcome. Patients enjoy better vascular health, enhanced profile silhouette, and increased self-confidence after the treatment.

Corresponding Procedures

Endovenous laser ablation therapy for varicose veins is one of the multiple vein treatments we offer at Skin & Vein Center. A common and similar issue to varicose veins is deep vein thrombosis, or DVT. This issue arises when there is a blood clot in deep-set veins. Patients facing this issue have multiple treatment options at their disposal, and we can help them customize a treatment plan to improve their health. Other issues, like spider veins, can also be treated.

Cost of Endovenous Laser Ablation Therapy in San Diego

Endovenous laser ablation therapy actually costs less than other options. Also, because this procedure is used to correct a medical condition, patients may qualify for insurance coverage. Costs will vary from patient to patient, and we will provide you with a comprehensive price quote during your consultation. Our practice also offers various financing options to help patients access their treatment.

Schedule your consultation today by submitting our online contact form. If you have any further questions or would prefer to schedule over the phone, please call our San Diego office at (619) 704-2100.

FAQ

What is the recovery time like after EVLT for varicose veins?

Most patients can resume regular activities shortly after the procedure, often within one to three days. However, strenuous exercises should be avoided for a couple of weeks.

Is endovenous laser ablation therapy painful?

Patients generally report minimal discomfort during the procedure due to localized anesthesia. Some mild soreness or tenderness can occur afterward, usually manageable with simple pain relief measures.

How long do the results of endovenous laser ablation therapy last?

Results from Endovenous laser therapy are enduring. The majority of patients experience sustained relief from symptoms and improved appearance of their legs for many years post-treatment.

Can my varicose veins come back after EVLT?

While the treated veins are sealed off permanently, new varicose veins can develop over time. Regular follow-up evaluations with your doctor will help ensure continued vascular health.

References

  1. Antani MR, Dattilo JB. Varicose Veins. PubMed. Published 2020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470194/
  2. Go S, Mun Y, Kang Y, Ahn H, Cho B. Study on the Long-Term Results of Endovenous Laser Ablation for Treating Varicose Veins. International Journal of Angiology. 2015;25(02):117-120. doi:https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0035-1555749
  3. Mohammadi Tofigh; Hamed A, Zebarjadi J. 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. 2020;11(Suppl 1):S43-S48. doi:https://doi.org/10.34172/jlms.2020.s7