WHAT IS ENDOVENOUS LASER THERAPY?

Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLT), a treatment for varicose veins, is an advanced, highly effective treatment for varicose veins. EVLT works by using targeted laser energy to close off problem veins, thus relieving the symptoms and appearance of varicose veins and restoring healthy, attractive legs. This treatment is ideal for large varicose veins, including the greater saphenous veins.

The EVLT™ Procedure is minimally-invasive and virtually pain-free. While surgical vein treatment methods can cause scarring and other side effects, the laser energy used in EVLT minimizes risks and complications. Laser energy is delivered directly to the target vein to shrink the walls, which eventually causes the vein to close. Blood flow is diverted to other, healthy veins, eliminating the varicose vein bulging, discoloration, and pain.

EVLT is performed as an outpatient procedure, usually in less than an hour, with only local anesthesia. This means that recovery time is dramatically reduced. Most patients can resume normal activities immediately following treatment, while enjoying superior clinical and aesthetic results.

WHAT IS RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION OF VARICOSE VEINS?

Radiofrequency ablation – the Closure Procedure – is similar to endovenous laser therapy. A radiofrequency probe is placed in the vein under ultrasound guidance. Then the vein is anesthetized using local anesthesia. Next, the vein is heated along its entire length by slowly withdrawing the probe from the vein. This causes the vein to clot and close, stopping the reflux (Leaking valves). Radiofrequency ablation is an outpatient procedure, can be performed under local anesthesia, and takes about 45 minutes. Possible complications are continued leg swelling, numbness, tingling, and blood clots in the legs. Patients may have bruising and mild pain for up to 4 weeks.

To date, Dr. Kokinos has successfully performed over 10,000 cosmetic vein procedures and is regarded as one of the premier Vascular Surgeons in the area to provide this service. If you suffer from painful varicose or unsightly legs, please call our office today to discuss your treatment options.

If you have already undergone a cosmetic vascular procedure and continue to experience pain and leg swelling, Dr. Kokinos is one of the few physicians in the area offering an FDA approved treatment to address this complication. We are happy to meet to evaluate your leg swelling, especially if it is left leg swelling and to discuss available treatment options for this unfortunate complication of cosmetic vein procedures.