Laser Vein Treatment (Endovenous Laser Therapy – EVLT)
Laser Vein Treatment, also known as Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT), is a minimally invasive procedure that uses concentrated laser energy to close diseased veins and restore healthy blood flow. At BASS Vein Center, our experienced vascular specialists perform EVLT with precision and care, offering patients a safe, outpatient alternative to traditional vein surgery. This advanced treatment effectively relieves varicose veins, leg swelling, and chronic venous insufficiency with minimal discomfort and quick recovery.
What Is Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT)?
Endovenous Laser Therapy is a modern alternative to surgical vein stripping.
During EVLT, a small fiber-optic laser is inserted into the affected vein under ultrasound guidance. The laser delivers targeted heat energy, sealing the vein closed. Once closed, blood naturally reroutes to nearby healthy veins, and the body gradually absorbs the treated vein over time.
The entire procedure typically takes less than one hour and requires only local anesthesia.
Patients walk out the same day and experience rapid symptom relief — no hospital stay required.
When Is Laser Vein Treatment Recommended?
Laser Vein Treatment is ideal for patients experiencing:
- Varicose veins in the legs or thighs
- Leg heaviness, aching, or fatigue
- Swelling or discomfort that worsens after standing
- Chronic venous insufficiency confirmed by ultrasound
- Visible skin changes or discoloration around the ankles
Your BASS Vein Center physician will conduct a comprehensive vein evaluation and ultrasound mapping to determine whether EVLT or another treatment, such as Radiofrequency Ablation or VenaSeal™, is best suited to your condition.
How Laser Vein Treatment Works
- Ultrasound Imaging: The vein specialist maps the diseased vein using ultrasound.
- Local Numbing: The treatment area is numbed with a local anesthetic to ensure comfort.
- Laser Fiber Placement: A thin optical fiber is inserted into the vein through a tiny needle puncture.
- Laser Activation: The laser is gently heated as it’s withdrawn, closing the vein from within.
- Recovery: A small bandage or compression stocking is applied. You can walk immediately after treatment.
The sealed vein is gradually absorbed by the body, and symptoms like swelling, heaviness, and pain begin to fade within days to weeks.
EVLT vs. Traditional Vein Surgery
While older surgical vein removal procedures required general anesthesia and longer recovery, EVLT offers a modern, patient-friendly alternative.
Advantages of Laser Vein Treatment
- Outpatient procedure — no hospitalization
- Fast recovery and minimal downtime
- Proven success rate for closing treated veins
- Little to no scarring
- Immediate improvement in leg comfort
- Reduces risk of advanced vein disease
EVLT is one of the most clinically tested and FDA-approved options for treating symptomatic varicose veins.
What to Expect Before and After Treatment
Before Treatment
- Inform your doctor of any medications or allergies.
- You may need to pause blood thinners (only if directed by your provider).
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
- Avoid lotion or moisturizer on the treatment day.
After Treatment
- Walk for 10–20 minutes immediately after the procedure.
- Wear compression stockings for one to two weeks as directed.
- Avoid heavy lifting or high-impact exercise for 1–2 weeks.
- Mild bruising or tenderness is normal and fades quickly.
Although the treated veins will not return, new varicose veins may develop over time. Periodic checkups with your vein specialist are recommended.
Why Choose BASS Vein Center
With over 35,000 successful vein procedures performed, BASS Vein Center is one of the most experienced vein treatment centers in the Northern California.
Our board-certified vascular specialists use ultrasound-guided precision and advanced laser and closure systems to deliver the highest standard of care.
We provide customized treatment plans for each patient, addressing both symptoms and underlying vein health.
Serving patients from Walnut Creek, Concord, Brentwood, Antioch, San Ramon, and Lafayette, our specialists make expert vein care accessible across the East Bay.
Experience. Precision. Comfort.
That’s the BASS Vein Center difference.
Request a Consultation to learn if Laser Vein Treatment is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is laser vein treatment painful?
No. The area is numbed with local anesthesia. Patients may feel mild warmth or a brief tingling sensation during the procedure.
How long does it take to recover from EVLT?
Most patients return to normal daily activities the same day. Minor soreness or bruising typically resolves within a few days.
Is laser treatment better than radiofrequency ablation?
Both procedures are highly effective and minimally invasive. Your vein specialist will determine which is best based on the size and location of the affected vein.