What causes varicose veins?

Varicose veins are caused by the downward flow of blood or reflux in superficial veins of the leg that should be returning to the heart. This is most often caused by incompetent valves in one or several major superficial veins and leads to the development of visible varicose veins underneath the skin.

How does the laser work?

The laser seals the veins responsible for reflux, thereby shutting off the pathway for venous reflux that leads to visible varicose and spider veins.

What are the treatment alternatives?

Surgical vein stripping is an alternative to laser treatment. It involves larger incisions under general anesthesia and a significant recovery time. In addition, it typically has a lower success rate than laser therapy.

How much does the treatment cost?

The treatment of symptomatic varicose veins with an endovascular laser is covered by most insurance companies. After your consultation, we will petition your insurance company to cover the procedure. We perform sclerotherapy and ambulatory phlebectomy for symptomatic varicose veins and it is usually covered by insurance. Spider veins are considered cosmetic and can be treated with sclerotherapy for a reasonable standard rate.

Do you accept my insurance?

Treatment of symptomatic varicose veins is covered by most insurance providers, including Medicare. Once you and your physician have decided on a treatment plan, we will check and go over your benefits with you.

Will the laser procedure hurt?

EVLT is a minimally invasive procedure performed through a small tube about the size of spaghetti. It is inserted in a vein usually just above the knee through a tiny nick in the skin which leaves no visible scar. A special anesthetic is also administered along the course of the vein, usually totaling 5-7 injections depending on the length of vein segment to be treated. Any post-procedure discomfort is most commonly taken care of with ibuprofen or Tylenol.