Vein Center

The endovenous laser therapy offers many advantages compared to surgery. This technique is performed in the outpatient office setting, has a shortened recovery period, and there is little to no scarring. The results for this treatment are excellent. Compared to other minimally invasive techniques, endovenous laser therapy may result in lower recurrences of varicose veins and less adverse side effects.

Following this procedure, you will wear compression stockings for several days and can return to most of your activities within a day or two.

Before your procedure

1. Fill any pre or post procedure medication prescriptions you may have gotten and be sure to get your compression stockings.
   • You can get your compression stockings at a medical supply store. Please plan ahead and get your stockings well in advance of your procedure as the correct size often has to be ordered for you. Please also try your stocking(s) on prior to your procedure to be sure they fit- they will be very snug but they ought to be long enough that they come to the very top of you leg (to your groin).
2. To decrease bruising avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and Vitamin E for 5 days before the procedure. If another health care provider has prescribed these medications, please get his or her permission prior to stopping them.
3. You may eat, drink, and take all normal medications (except medications mentioned in #2) prior to your procedure. However, avoid caffeine and try to be well hydrated on the day of your procedure.
4. The pre-procedure medications can sometimes make people sleepy so we advise that you have someone with you to drive you home after the procedure

After your procedure

1. For the first 24 hours after the procedure most people rest and relax however complete bed rest is not necessary or encouraged.
2. Please take all post procedure medications as prescribed- even if you do not have pain.
3. Try to elevate you legs when you are sitting for the first 24-48 hours after your procedure but you can otherwise carry on with all of your daily activities with a few exceptions.
   • No heavy lifting (greater than 15-20 pounds) for 2 weeks. Keep in mind that items like grocery bags, trash, laundry baskets, pets and children can weigh more than this.
   • If you exercise regularly, please consult with the physician performing your procedure about your return to exercise activity.
4. No tub baths, swimming, or soaking in water for two weeks after the procedure to prevent infection. Taking a shower is OK.
5. Compression Stocking(s):
   • Week One- Wear the stocking(s) around the clock. Remove them once daily to shower and then put the stocking(s) back on.
   • Week Two- Wear the stocking(s) during the day and in the evening, removing them only when you are sleeping.
   • Week Three- Wear the stocking(s) all day and remove in the evening if you will be inactive. If you will be active in the evening, keep them on until you go to bed as well.
   • REMEMBER: You can wear the stocking(s) too little, but not too much.
6. Dressing Care: Leave all dressings and compression stocking(s) on for 24 hours after your procedure. You then can remove everything with the exception of the steri-strips, and shower. (Strei-strips are white or brown and are placed directly on the skin, under the bulky white dressings. Leave the steri-strips on for up to seven days- it is OK if they fall off sooner than that.) After showering and drying your leg completely, put the compression stocking(s) back on.
7. Follow up: Return to the clinic 4-5 weeks following your procedure for a follow- up visit. If you have any questions or concerns we would be happy to see you sooner.