Varicose veins can not only make you feel embarrassed about your legs, but they can also lower your quality of life. If left untreated, varicose veins can have painful and even dangerous health consequences. An early diagnosis and timely treatment are crucial for proper blood circulation and overall well-being.
It’s estimated that around 44 million Americans suffer from varicose veins. Of these 44 million Americans, approximately only 2 million seek treatment yearly. Those who do not face the risk of developing leg pain, throbbing, itching, burning, fatigue, restlessness, skin discoloration or even ulceration. In severe cases, vein rupture and bleeding can occur, and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) may develop.
Many people do not realize that their unsightly veins can be treated quickly and successfully with laser vein removal, a minimally invasive, in-office treatment that destroys varicose veins without downtime. Don’t wait for your varicose veins to develop into something worse. The highly qualified physicians at California Vein Specialists can treat your unsightly veins quickly and safely with laser vein removal.
What Is Endovenous Laser Ablation?
Laser vein removal for varicose veins is often performed with endovenous laser ablation (EVLA). During an EVLA procedure, the skin is numbed with local anesthesia and a small laser fiber is inserted into the vein. The fiber then emits laser energy into the vein, causing its walls to shrink and preventing blood from continuing to flow through the vessel. Eventually, the vein walls collapse and seal shut, and the treated vessel is naturally absorbed by the body. The blood that once pooled in the varicose vein redirects itself to other, healthier veins. The EVLA treatment typically takes less than 30 minutes.
Is EVLA a Safe Procedure?
EVLA is a safe and effective treatment that has a 98 percent success rate. Most patients don’t need to have a second treatment. EVLA produces no visible scarring but can cause bruising that can last for up to six weeks. Bruising and tenderness are the most common side effects after treatment, but some less common side effects include infection, puncturing and thermal damage. These risks are rare and most patients undergo the procedure with no complications.
How Do I Prepare for EVLA?
An initial consultation is needed before EVLA to ensure your candidacy. Expect to be asked questions about your medical history and any medications you are currently taking, and to undergo a physical exam and ultrasound. You may not be eligible for this procedure if you have an arterial or blood disorder, or are pregnant.
What Should I Expect After EVLA?
Most patients can drive themselves home from the office after laser vein removal. You will be required to wear a Grade 2 compression stocking for five days. You may take pain medication if you are in discomfort, but it is usually not needed. The procedure is gentle and patients experience very little or no pain afterward. Activity is encouraged following an EVLA procedure. Walk several times per day to encourage blood flow, but avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting.
Plan to have a second ultrasound two weeks after EVLA and additional physician follow-up appointments as necessary.
How Do I Maintain My Results After EVLA?
EVLA is an effective treatment that permanently destroys varicose veins. The veins that are treated will not come back; however, it remains possible for new varicose veins to develop. Varicose veins are often hereditary, so the likelihood of them forming again is high if they run in your family. Guaranteed prevention is not an option, but there are a variety of strategies you can employ to lower your risk of developing varicose veins in the future.
To maintain the results of this procedure, patients are encouraged to maintain a healthy, stable weight, engage in an active life and have a yearly ultrasound examination. Regular exercise improves blood circulation and increases your body’s ability to pump blood up your legs back to your heart. Together with a healthy diet, exercise also helps you manage your weight, which further lowers your chances of getting varicose veins by reducing the pressure put on your veins. Other steps you can take to promote vein health include wearing compression stockings and raising your legs for a sustained period daily, both of which help blood flow freely through your body.
The most important thing you can do for your vein health is to schedule regular screenings with a vein specialist. By being proactive about your health, you ensure you receive critical advice and expert care exactly when you need it.
Where Can I Have My Veins Removed?
If you’re ready to try laser vein removal, seek out the help of an expert in EVLA. Having performed over 7,000 EVLA treatments, Dr. Leary of California Vein Specialists is among the most renowned vein specialists in the Southern California region. Patients who choose Dr. Leary receive a customized treatment plan to correct their vein concerns and advice to maintain long-lasting vein health.
If you’re interested in learning more about EVLA and would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Leary, please contact California Vein Specialists at (949) 515-9377 or visit our contact page.