Endovenous laser treatment, or EVLT, is a minimally invasive vein treatment procedure in which heat from a specialized laser is applied to close or shrink varicose veins. During the procedure, an optical fiber catheter is inserted into the diseased veins, and the catheter is guided to the right veins through the use of ultrasound technology. The procedure only requires local anesthesia that is injected around the area to be treated and does not require a hospital stay. The treatment procedure typically takes around one to two hours. You will be able to walk out of the hospital within an hour after the procedure is done.
How much does EVLT cost?
The cost for EVLT depends on the extent of varicose veins as larger varicose veins may require multiple sessions and the state where you are getting treatment. On average, the procedure can cost between $600 to $3000. Costs depend upon various factors such as the extent of varicose veins that need to be treated which determines the number of sessions you would require and the state you are getting the treatment.
Is EVLT for vein treatment covered by insurance?
This depends on the purpose of the treatment procedure. Varicose vein treatments are covered by most insurance companies, as long as they are deemed ‘medically necessary’. If the varicose veins are accompanied by other associated symptoms such as leg pain, leg swelling, and dry, itchy, reddened skin around the veins, insurance is more likely to cover the cost of treatment.
For this, some insurance companies may require a referral to cover treatment so they can verify that it is medically necessary. Even then, it is possible for the front office staff at the vein center to obtain a referral on your behalf. Speak to the vein center about this when you book your appointment. They can then gain an understanding of your insurance coverage and maybe even obtain a referral for you without you having to go through the hassle of visiting your primary care physician.
Is EVLT for vein treatment painful?
EVLT is a generally safe and simple procedure. Endovenous laser treatment is performed with a local anesthetic, which means that patients are unlikely to feel any pain during the procedure. You may feel mild to moderate cramping and discomfort immediately after the procedure. As you heal, you may experience swelling, cramping, discomfort, and some amount of pain.
What are the side effects of EVLT?
Like with any medical procedure, EVLT comes with certain risks and side effects. Side effects can include swelling and bruising on the area of treatment, change in skin sensation, hyperpigmentation, infection, persistent pain, scarring, and ulceration. The risks of developing these side effects depend on your surgeon’s abilities and your body’s temperament. This is why it is important to make sure you do enough research on finding the right vein specialists for your treatment. Your doctor will discuss the likelihood of the risks against the benefits of the procedure with you before the procedure.
How long does it take for EVLT to heal?
The time taken for your legs to heal after EVLT depends on multiple factors, such as your general health disposition, the extent of your treatment, and how well you look after yourself after the procedure. On average, you can get back to work three days after treatment, and drive after around five days of treatment. It can take about three weeks for you to heal sufficiently to perform all your usual activities after an endovenous laser treatment procedure.
How do I prepare for endovenou laser treatment?
If you decide to get an endovenous laser treatment for varicose veins, your doctor will advise you on how you can prepare for the process. Here are some things you may want to keep in mind before your radiofrequency ablation appointment:
- Arrange for transport to and from the treatment center. This is because you may be given anesthesia for the procedure, and it is a good idea to have someone drive you to and from the center in that case.
- Drink plenty of water so that you are well-hydrated.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
- Make sure to pack your compression stockings. It is also a good idea to buy the stockings and wear them at least three or four days in advance to make sure you break into the stockings and they fit you comfortably.
- Do not shave your legs the morning of the procedure. This is because shaving can increase the risk of razor burn irritation during the sterilizing wash.
- Do not smoke or drink for at least two days before the procedure. This is because smoking and drinking can slow down healing after the procedure.
The Vein Clinic boasts a team of highly experienced vein doctors who are at the top of their fields and have all been trained at Ivy League universities. All our doctors are fellowship-trained and double board-certified. With cutting-edge, state-of-the-art technology and world-class medical infrastructure at their disposal, these vein specialists use the most advanced procedures to treat their patients. To top it all, our doctors know to keep patients’ comfort ahead and treat them with friendliness, patience, and kindness.
Our vein clinic in San Diego is currently located near the Torrey Pine beach state park, close to the Westfield UTC Shopping Center. In San Jose, our vein clinic is located in a beautiful neighborhood near Palo Alto, Sunnydale, and Santa Clara. It is down the block from the Santa Clara Medical Center and the Santana Row Shopping Mall. Our experienced Harvard-trained vein doctors can offer the best care possible to help you.