Millions of people are living with embarrassing and painful varicose veins. If you have them and symptoms don’t improve with lifestyle remedies or noninvasive treatments, endovenous laser ablation may be the next step.
At the Carolina Vein Institute, Dr. Luan Tran and Rousu An offer endovenous laser ablation and other cutting-edge treatments for people with varicose veins.
Our physicians are board-certified aesthetic injectors and varicose vein specialists who help you overcome obstacles and reduce symptoms related to varicose veins.
Endovenous laser ablation is a successful treatment we use to permanently seal off varicose veins. It’s minimally invasive and utilizes ultrasound guidance for advanced precision.
The procedure involves a tiny puncture near the affected vein, where we insert a tiny laser fiber. The fiber gently heats the vein wall to about 158 degrees Fahrenheit, which seals off the vein.
Over time, the vein shrinks, and the body absorbs it. The result is no varicose veins to cause symptoms or embarrassment. The best news is that it’s the first-line treatment and much less invasive than other procedures like vein stripping.
There are several steps we need to complete before you undergo the endovenous laser ablation procedure. First, we have a consultation to ensure you’re a good candidate.
The next step is a comprehensive ultrasound to see your venous anatomy and identify key problem areas. After that, we review your medications and history to determine which medicines you should stop or continue before treatment.
It’s also essential to get the proper compression stockings before the procedure to help you heal after.
We can perform the procedure in the office or in an outpatient clinic. You will have local anesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable.
You come into the procedure room in a gown and lie down on the procedure table. We then numb the area.
Using ultrasound guidance, we find the varicose vein and the exact area to ablate. A small puncture in the skin allows us to insert the ablation wire and gently heat the vein, causing it to seal off and collapse.
We gently withdraw the ablation probe through the vein to seal off the entire treatment area. We apply a bandage, and you go home after a short recovery period.
Endovenous laser ablation causes blood to redirect around the treated vein, leading to improved circulation and symptom relief.
In the first 24 to 48 hours, you can expect some bruising, swelling, and mild discomfort. It’s essential to rest and wear compression stockings to control bruising and swelling. Avoid any strenuous activities and rest with your legs elevated.
Discomfort and swelling typically improve within the first week after treatment. You can gradually resume activities as tolerated and in accordance with our directions. Follow-up appointments are crucial to ensuring you’re healing well.
In the next several months, you’ll notice the varicose vein disappear as the body absorbs it. You’ll also notice reduced symptoms and improved comfort, including better circulation.
We invite you to connect with us at one of our North Carolina offices or visit our website to schedule your consultation and begin your journey toward healthier, more comfortable legs.
