Treating Varicose Veins Using Laser - Robert Fischer M.D. in NJ

Endovenous laser therapy, or commonly known as EVLT, is a medical procedure designed to treat varicose veins using laser. This procedure is minimally invasive and it is usually performed by a vascular surgeon or a phlebologist. The laser energy focuses the targeted tissues with extreme precision, eliminating varicose veins. The surrounding tissues are not affected and this medical procedure is safe and effective.

Benefits of EVLT (Endovenous Laser Therapy)

This procedure has a myriad of benefits and it can be used for both cosmetic and medical purposes. Here are the most well-known benefits of endovenous laser therapy:

• No visible scars as there are no surgical incisions
• Extremely safe with very low complication rate
• Covered by nearly all insurance carriers/healthcare plans
• Performed in a comfortable outpatient office setting
• No general anesthesia or sedation required for most patients
• Done in less than an hour
• Minimal recovery time
• High success rate

About The Procedure

A limited ultrasound scan will be carried out by a sonographer to familiarize the surgeon with the veins. The course of the vein will be marked. The patient needs to stay for 5 minutes and his varicosities will be marked with a marker. There is no need for anesthesia. Some patients are administered a small dose of anti-anxiety medication prior the procedure.

The EVLT tube, or catheter, is inserted into the vein under ultrasound control, and the tip is positioned at the top of the vein. Small amount of lidocaine are injected around the vein all along its course using multiple tiny needle sticks. The lidocaine around the vein, or tumescent, is used for pain relief and to further compress the vein. The laser tip is confirmed in place and the device is turned on. The laser is slowly retracted after 2-3 minutes.

EVLT (Endovenous Laser Therapy) | FAQ

How should I prepare for an EVLT procedure?

Patients are asked not to shave their legs or apply moisturizer on the day of the surgery. You should opt to wear loose trousers and sandals in order to accommodate the thickness of the stocking and the bandages.

Do I have to restriction my movements after EVLT?

Patients can resume their activities but should avoid standing still for too long. Walking is encouraged, especially after the procedure. Avoid strenuous exercises such as Pilates, core training, abdominal crunches, and heavy weightlifting for the first 2 weeks after the procedure.

What do I expect in terms of pain after EVLT?

Mild pain might persist for a few days. The degree of pain is dependent to the initial vein size. You can minimize the pain by walking or by taking Tylenol.

Achieve the Best Results with Dr. Robert S. Fischer – Your EVLT Expert

For more information about EVLT, feel free to contact our office and schedule an appointment with Dr. Robert S. Fischer who is a professional plastic surgeon with a stellar reputation in cosmetic surgery. Make varicose veins a thing of the past with his expert help!