Frequently asked questions about varicose veins and the ELVeS Laser Treatment.

Straight questions. Honest answers.

Q] What causes varicose veins?

A] In your legs, veins contain valves that keep blood pumping up to your heart, and prevent blood from flowing back down to your feet. If these valves fail, blood can leak back into the veins and collect, creating a condition called venous insufficiency. As the blood pools in a vein, that vein enlarges, or becomes “varicose.” Valves fail for a variety of reasons — heredity, gender (females suffer from the condition more than males), obesity, pregnancy, trauma, and occupations that require standing are just a few of the underlying causes.

Q] What are the risks of not treating varicose veins?

A] In addition to being painful and embarrassing, varicose veins, if left untreated, can enlarge and worsen. Ulceration can lead to infection and more serious complications. Some health risks that can arise from severe varicose veins include:

• Ongoing irritation, swelling, and painful rashes of the legs
• Sores or ulcers on the skin around varicose veins
• Deterioration of skin health and subsequent ulceration
• Severe venous insufficiency that may slow the return of blood to the heart
• Risk of clotting, phlebitis, infection and resulting danger to lungs and heart.

Q] What are the risks of laser treatment?

A] One of the greatest advantages of endovenous laser treatment is that the risks are so minimal. With most patients, the procedure uses a local anesthetic and a minor entry point for the laser fiber. Side effects are limited to slight bruising. While heavy lifting should be avoided for about a week, patients are encouraged to walk frequently and go about their normal activities. Compression stockings will be prescribed, but they won’t restrict activity.

Q] How long does the process take?

A] The procedure itself takes about 45 minutes, and is done in your physician’s office. The recovery period is negligible. Feel free to plan the rest of your day following the procedure!

Q] How soon will I see results?

A] With the ELVeS procedure, relief of your varicose vein symptoms occurs immediately.

Q] Will my insurance cover the procedure?

A] Unlike many cosmetic procedures, most insurance companies will cover the ELVeS treatment. Please ask your ELVeS physician can help check your coverage. Varicose veins don’t have to be a problem any longer