Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT): What to Expect and How It Helps Varicose Veins

Endovenous laser therapy, often called EVLT or EVLA, is a minimally invasive way to treat varicose veins. Instead of removing a vein through surgery, a thin laser fiber goes inside the vein and closes it. This stops the faulty blood flow and redirects blood to healthy veins. The result is less pain, fewer symptoms, and improved appearance.

Who is a good candidate? If you have visible bulging veins, aching, swelling, skin darkening, or ulcers tied to venous reflux, EVLT may be a fit. A vascular ultrasound must confirm the problem vein and map its path. People with active infections, certain blood clotting disorders, or pregnancy usually wait or seek other options.

What happens during the procedure

First, the doctor numbs a small area and inserts a tiny needle into the problem vein under ultrasound guidance. A laser fiber is threaded through the needle to the targeted spot. Local anesthetic is injected along the vein so you won’t feel pain when the laser is activated. The laser delivers heat that seals the vein shut over a few seconds per treated segment. The whole visit usually lasts 30 to 60 minutes.

Recovery and what to expect

You go home the same day and can walk right away. Doctors often recommend wearing compression stockings for one to two weeks to help healing and reduce bruising. Mild soreness, tightness, or bruises along the treated vein are common for a few days. Serious complications are rare but can include deep vein thrombosis, nerve injury, or skin burns. Follow your doctor’s instructions for activity and when to return for follow-up ultrasound checks.

How effective is EVLT? Clinical studies show high closure rates — often above 90% at one year — with good symptom relief. Results vary by vein size, operator skill, and follow-up care. EVLT is faster to recover from than traditional vein stripping and has fewer complications in most reports.

Picking a provider matters. Choose someone experienced in vein ultrasound and endovenous procedures, like a vascular surgeon, interventional radiologist, or vein specialist. Ask about their complication rate, how many EVLT cases they’ve done, and see before-and-after photos. Make sure pre-procedure mapping and follow-up scans are part of the plan.

Costs and insurance vary. Many insurers cover EVLT when ultrasound proves venous reflux causing symptoms. If you pay out of pocket, get an itemized estimate for the procedure, facility fees, anesthesia, and follow-up visits.

If you’re bothered by varicose veins and want a quick, effective option with minimal downtime, EVLT is worth discussing. Book an ultrasound-based consultation and ask clear questions about risks, recovery, and what outcomes to expect.

Tip: bring a list of medications, wear loose shorts or a skirt to the appointment, arrange a ride home if you’re anxious, and plan light walking for the first week. Call your clinic if you notice increasing swelling, fever, worsening pain, or shortness of breath—these can signal an uncommon but serious complication that needs attention.