Treating Veins With Endovenous Laser Ablation

A qualified vein doctor can determine whether you are a good candidate for EVLT after a full evaluation, including a non-invasive venous ultrasound (30–45 minutes), a vein-specific physical exam, a complete medical history, and a discussion of the procedure and your personal treatment goals. Most patients with symptomatic varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency are candidates. Your vein specialist will develop a full understanding of your venous anatomy and objectives to recommend the best treatment for you.

During EVLT, a thin laser fiber is inserted into the diseased vein under ultrasound guidance. The laser delivers targeted heat energy that causes the vein walls to inflame and seal permanently closed. Blood flow is naturally rerouted to healthier veins in the leg, and the treated vein is gradually reabsorbed by the body over several months — along with the surface varicose veins it caused.

EVLT is designed to target the diseased vein while minimizing injury to the surrounding skin and tissue. Vascular lasers only target the pigment in blood, so blood vessels are destroyed without affecting the surrounding skin. A tumescent cooling solution is also delivered around the vein to protect surrounding tissue during the procedure.

Both endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) are minimally invasive endovenous procedures that seal diseased veins from the inside. EVLT uses laser light energy that can exceed 1,200°C at the fiber tip, while RFA uses radiofrequency energy at approximately 120°C. Both are highly effective, with vein closure rates above 95%. Your vein specialist will recommend the best option based on the size, location, and characteristics of your veins.

Patients should arrive about 15 minutes early to prepare for the procedure. EVLT itself typically takes 30 to 60 minutes per vein. There is zero-downtime — most patients return to normal daily activities immediately. The treated leg is wrapped in an ace bandage for 48 hours, followed by a medical-grade compression stocking worn for about 7 days. Strenuous exercise, hot baths, and long-haul travel should be avoided for one to two weeks.

Endovenous laser treatment is covered by most major medical insurance plans when it is medically necessary — for example, to treat symptomatic varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency causing pain, swelling, heaviness, or other symptoms. Purely cosmetic vein treatment is typically not covered. Our verifications team can confirm your coverage before your appointment.