FAQ

How do I know if laser treatment is right for me?
You can't know until you have been evaluated with ultrasound. The vast majority of patients with varicose veins are good candidates.

Can laser help me if I have had my veins stripped in the past but now have recurrence of varicose veins?
Previous vein stripping makes all forms of treatment more difficult, but most patients will benefit from treatment.

If the laser procedure closes certain veins, how does blood in the area of those veins get back to the central circulation and on to the heart?
Since the veins we laser are already refluxing blood towards the feet and not the heart, the leg has already figured out how to channel it to the deep venous system. In other words, you don't need the vein we are going to laser because it doesn't work properly anyway.

Is the laser procedure painful?
No, it involves minimal pain associated with injection of local anesthetic.

How long does the procedure take?
Usually about an hour.

Do I need someone to drive me to the office?
No, we do not use any IV or sedative drugs and you should be able to drive yourself home afterward.

What can I expect for recovery?
You may walk immediately and it is encouraged. Most patients can go to work the next day unless they have a very physical job. You should avoid very vigorous activity for about a week. You will have to wear a compression stocking for a week. The treated segment of vein will be sore for several days, but usually handled nicely with Ibuprofen or Aleve.

Should I wait until I am finished having children to seek treatment?
No, but if you are currently pregnant, you should wait until two months after delivery to be evaluated as symptoms are likely to improve during that time period.

Is the laser procedure dangerous?
EVLT is a noninvasive technique designed to avoid the risks of traditional surgery and therefore is not dangerous and has an excellent safety profile.

Will treating my varicose veins get rid of my restless legs symptoms?
Treating the vein disease will eliminate or significantly improve symptoms of restless legs syndrome in about three out of four patients.

Are my ankle ulcers related to veins?
Yes, in most cases. Skin breakdown and chronic ulcer formation are the late result of chronic venous disease and account for about 85% of all cases. Treating the underlying vein disease is critical in healing the ulcers and preventing recurrence.