Endovenous Laser Ablation – Procedure, Recovery & Risks

Varicose veins may lead to an uncomfortable life. Many people experience leg aching, swelling, and soreness daily. Others see large, twisted veins that appear swollen and ugly. Others develop sore legs after doing simple chores. If these problems sound familiar, you may have heard about endovenous laser ablation. It is considered to be one of the most popular treatments for varicose veins in the modern world.

This guide will help you understand the treatment in a simple way—how it works, how it feels, how long recovery takes, and what risks you should know. You will also learn why a lot of people of Ludhiana’s population will go to Dr Luv Luthra, a reliable vascular and endovascular surgeon, to undergo this treatment.

What Is Endovenous Laser Ablation?

Endovenous laser ablation is a treatment associated with varicose veins. These veins become weak and stop pushing blood back toward the heart. When this happens, blood begins to accumulate in the leg veins, thus causing bulging, swelling, or even pain.

In the treatment, a very thin laser fibre is introduced into the unhealthy vein. The laser burns the vein on the inside and seals it. After closing the vein, the blood begins to pass through the healthier ones. The closed vein gradually contracts and improves after some time.

This treatment is safe, quick, and widely used because:

• There are no big cuts
• There is very little pain.
• You can go home the same day.
• You can walk right after the procedure.
• It helps with swelling, pain, and heaviness.

Why Do People Choose This Treatment?

There are many reasons why people are opting to ablate using the endovenous laser ablation for varicose veins. Here are the most common ones:

1. Fast and Simple

The whole process usually is less than an hour.

2. No Hospital Stay

You come in and go out on the same day.

3. No Big Wounds

There are no stitches or scars, as only a small needle is applied.

4. Quick Healing

The majority of people resume working within one to two days.

5. Long-Lasting Results

After the unhealthy vein is closed, issues such as pain and swelling tend to decrease significantly.

To most people, this form of treatment comes out as a way of restoring their comfort and confidence.

Endovenous Laser Ablation Procedure: Step-by-Step

We will discuss what actually happens during the procedure. This has been clarified in a simple manner that eliminates fear and confusion.

1. Ultrasound of the Veins

The doctor performs an ultrasound before anything begins and observes the damaged veins. The reason is that it will indicate where the problem lies precisely.

2. Cleaning the Area

Your leg is sponged, so you will not be infected.

3. Numbing the Leg

This is done by application of a small injection that anaesthetises  the area. This makes you remain pain-free and comfortable.

4. Laser Fibre in Vein

A tiny opening is created by means of a thin needle. Using this opening, the laser fibre is gradually laid in the vein. The fibre will not be felt since the numbing medicine is effective.

5. Using the Laser

When the fibre is in the correct location, the physician switches on the laser. The vein is closed inwards by the heat. Others feel warm, however, not painful.

6. Removing the Fibre

Once the vein has been closed, the fibre is removed. A small bandage is applied to the skin.

7. Compression Stockings Wearing.

You will also receive compression stockings in order to heal your legs. These stockings help in maintaining the flow of blood and reducing swelling.

Endovenous Laser Ablation Recovery

One of the best things about this treatment is the easy recovery. Most people walk out of the clinic and feel fine.

Here’s what you can expect:

Right After the Procedure

• You can walk normally.
• You can go home the same day.
• There might be slight tightness, but it is normal.

First 2–3 Days

• You may notice mild bruising.
• The leg may feel tight, like a stretched muscle.
• You should wear compression stockings.
• Light walking is encouraged.

Next Few Weeks

• Pain reduces
• Swelling comes down
• The treated vein slowly starts shrinking.
• Leg heaviness has become much better.

Returning to Work

Most people go back to regular work within 1–2 days unless their job requires very heavy physical activity.

Simple daily walking helps in faster healing.

Endovenous Laser Ablation Complications

Possible endovenous laser ablation complications include:

• Mild bruising around the treated area
• A pulling or tight feeling
• Slight numbness (usually temporary)
• Skin tenderness
• Rarely, inflammation near the vein
• Very rarely, a blood clot

Most of these issues are small and go away with time. Choosing a trained vascular surgeon reduces the chances of complications.

Why Patients in Ludhiana Trust Dr. Luv Luthra

When it comes to vein treatments, experience matters, many people in Ludhiana trust Dr. Luv Luthra because of his strong background and gentle approach.

His qualifications include:

• MBBS
• MS in General Surgery
• MCh in Vascular & Endovascular Surgery
• DNB in Peripheral Vascular Surgery

He is Director of – Chand Vascular Centre and Diabetic Foot Clinic, Ludhiana and also visits  at Global Heart and Multispecialty Hospital, Ludhiana as a Chief Consultant. 

Who Is the Right Candidate?

This treatment may be right for you if:

• Your legs feel heavy or ache
• The veins look swollen or twisted.
• You stand for long hours.
• You have skin discolouration on your legs.
• Swelling in your legs keeps coming back.

A proper ultrasound check will confirm whether this is the best option for you.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should get help if:

• Your veins hurt badly
• Your veins bleed
• You see skin darkening.
• You often get leg cramps.
• You notice swelling that doesn’t go away.

Early treatment helps prevent serious problems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is endovenous laser ablation painful?
   Patients experience minimal pain due to the numbing of the area being treated. The pressure or slight discomfort is not painful. The procedure is mildly painful and can be treated using usual pain medication.

2. How long does recovery take?
   The majority of them resume normal operations within 1-2 days. Walking is allowed immediately after treatment, although heavy exercise should be avoided for 2-3 weeks. Complete recovery normally takes one month.

3. Will the varicose veins recur?
   The vein that has been treated becomes permanently closed and will not reappear. Nevertheless, other veins, with time, may develop new varicose veins. Prevention of new ones can be done by maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, and wearing compression stockings where necessary.

4. Is it possible to drive home after the procedure?
   You must make someone come and take you home after the procedure, particularly when you are given some sedation. But the following day, you are commonly in a position to drive.

5. Is endovenous laser ablation insurable?
   Varicose veins are subject to many insurance plans, which would take care of the procedure in case they result in symptoms or medical issues. Before getting any treatment, consult your insurance company and your doctor’s office to be informed of your coverage.