Endovenous Laser Vein Ablation

For many adults, bulging or aching leg veins make even simple movements feel heavy and uncomfortable. If you’ve been searching for lasting relief, vein ablation—specifically Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)—offers a proven, minimally invasive solution to treat varicose veins safely and effectively.

 

Nearly 45% of men and 50% of women in the U.S. deal with varicose veins at some point. The good news is that today’s laser-based treatments allow patients to restore healthy circulation without surgery or lengthy downtime. With guidance from a board-certified vein specialist, you can walk in and out of the clinic the same day feeling confident that relief is within reach.

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endovenous laser ablation procedure

What Is Vein Ablation?

Vein ablation is a minimally invasive procedure designed to close off damaged or malfunctioning veins that cause discomfort, swelling, or visible varicose veins. A thin catheter is gently inserted through a small puncture, allowing your vein specialist to deliver precise heat or energy to seal the problem vein. Once closed, blood naturally reroutes to nearby healthy veins, improving circulation and reducing pressure. Benefits of the Vein Ablation Procedure:

  • Improves overall leg circulation
  • Reduces pain, swelling, and heaviness
  • Minimizes visible bulging veins
  • Helps prevent future vein complications

Because it’s performed under local anesthesia, most patients remain comfortable throughout and return to normal activity soon after the procedure. The focus is on quick recovery, cosmetic improvement, and long-term vein health.

What Is Endovenous Laser Vein Ablation (EVLA)?

Endovenous Laser Vein Ablation, often shortened to EVLA, is a specialized form of vein ablation that uses gentle, focused laser energy to close diseased veins from the inside. Under ultrasound guidance, a thin laser fiber is inserted through a small catheter into the affected vein. Controlled, gentle bursts of heat seal the vein wall, allowing the body to absorb it naturally.

 

This treatment is typically recommended when veins cause pain, redness, swelling, or when skin irritation appears above varicose veins. EVLA provides precise targeting and minimal trauma to surrounding tissues, resulting in faster recovery and excellent cosmetic results. Patients choose EVLA for its:

  • High success rate
  • Little to no scarring
  • Outpatient convenience, as the procedure takes less than an hour

The entire process is performed by an experienced specialist who prioritizes your comfort and safety at every stage.

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Hear From Our Patients

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“Dr.Gilvydis and his team not only provide excellent quality care but also excellent service. This team of professionals are very client focused and work together to ensure that you get the right treatment but also take the time to tailor the process to meet your needs. Couldn’t be happier with the results. Highly recommend!“

Maureen – Naperville, IL

5/5

“If you’re reading reviews trying to decide if this place is good and with your time and money, I can safely attest that yes, they are great and worth the time and money. The team were all so nice and thorough. Everything was clean and professional. I highly recommend!”

Seymor – Geneva, IL

5/5
“Every aspect of my experience with the Gilvydis Vein Clinic has been positive, and as pleasant as I could have hoped for. The facilities are clean, bright, and comfortable. The staff is friendly, efficient, knowledgeable, and professional. The doctor and staff are skilled, informative, and thorough. I highly recommend their services and care.”

Gary – Sycamore, IL

laser vein ablation procedure

What to Expect from EVLA

Patients often choose Endovenous Laser Ablation because it delivers noticeable results without keeping them from their daily lives for long. The procedure typically takes less than an hour, and most patients can return to regular activity right away.

 

Published research shows success rates of 95–98% for properly performed EVLA treatments, demonstrating the method’s reliability. EVLA is considered the gold standard for the treatment of venous insufficiency.

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Your EVLA Experience

  1. Consultation: Your specialist reviews your symptoms, medical history, and ultrasound results to determine whether EVLA is the best option for you.
  2. Preparation: The treatment area is cleansed, and local anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort.
  3. Treatment: A small catheter and laser fiber are carefully inserted into the affected vein under ultrasound guidance.
  4. Closure: Controlled heat from the laser seals the diseased vein, allowing healthy veins to take over circulation.
  5. Recovery: After a brief observation period, you’ll walk out of the clinic with only a small bandage and a new sense of relief.

Most patients notice less swelling and greater comfort within just a few days, with visible results improving over the following weeks.

Procedure

During Endovenous Laser Ablation, your provider inserts a thin catheter into the affected vein using ultrasound imaging for precise placement. A fine laser fiber is threaded through the catheter, and once the area is numbed with local anesthesia, controlled energy is applied to close the vein.

 

As the treated vein collapses, the surrounding healthy veins naturally take over normal blood flow to maintain regular circulation. This helps prevent symptoms like heaviness, aching, or discoloration that often accompany varicose veins.

 

The procedure typically lasts around 30 to 60 minutes, and patients can resume light activities right after leaving the clinic.

Side Effects

Like any medical treatment, EVLA may cause mild, short-term effects as your body heals. These are signs of the body’s natural recovery process and usually fade within a few days to weeks. Common EVLA Side Effects:

  • Minor bruising or tenderness along the treated vein
  • A mild pulling or tight sensation
  • Temporary redness or sensitivity

 

Your provider may recommend over-the-counter pain relief or compression stockings to help you feel more comfortable and improve circulation as you heal.

EVLA Aftercare

Proper aftercare plays a major role in ensuring both your treatment success and comfort. Your care team will provide you with detailed instructions after your procedure. General EVLA Aftercare Guidelines:

  1. Keep incisions clean and dry until cleared by your provider.
  2. Avoid swimming, hot tubs, or long baths for 12 days.
  3. Elevate your treated leg periodically to help reduce swelling.
  4. Wear compression stockings as directed to maintain proper circulation.
  5. Walk several times a day to keep blood flowing and support recovery.
  6. Avoid flying for two weeks following treatment.
  7. Return for your follow-up ultrasound after one week to confirm that the treated vein has sealed successfully.

By following your aftercare plan, you’ll help your legs heal comfortably and see your optimal results. For many patients, EVLA provides lasting relief and the freedom to move without discomfort.

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What Are the Risks of EVLA?

Endovenous Laser Vein Ablation is a safe, minimally invasive treatment when performed by an experienced provider. Most side effects are mild, such as slight bruising or tenderness, and typically resolve within a few days.

 

Serious complications are rare, affecting fewer than 1% of patients. However, you should contact your provider or seek medical attention right away if you experience any of the following:

  • Chest pain or shortness of breath
  • Persistent leg swelling or pain
  • Lightheadedness or fainting
  • Coughing up blood

 

Your vein specialist will review your medical history, explain all potential risks, and monitor your recovery to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the process.

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Already Met Your Deductible?

Get a low out-of-pocket cost for your vein treatment. Now that you have met your deductible, don’t postpone treatment. Schedule your consultation appointment today. Our vein treatment is safe, effective, and quick—so you can resume doing the things you love in no time.

Accepted Insurance

  • Aetna (Personal Care/Coventry)
  • BCBS PPO
  • Cigna
  • Employers Coalition on Health (ECOH)
  • Health Alliance Medical Plan (HAMP)
  • HFN
  • Humana
  • Medicare
  • Multiplan
  • PCN IPA
  • EPreferred Plan, Inc. (PPI)/Interhealth plan
  • SEIU
  • The Alliance
  • United Healthcare

Frequently Asked Questions About EVLA

Yes. Vein ablation works by closing damaged veins and redirecting blood flow through healthy veins. This improves overall circulation, as many patients notice their legs feel lighter and less tired.

No. Local anesthesia is used, so you’ll stay comfortable throughout. You may notice mild discomfort or tightness afterward, but it typically fades within a few days.

Gentle movement, such as light walking, is encouraged soon after your procedure, as it helps to improve circulation and healing. Avoid strenuous activity or heavy exercise, such as running or heavy lifting, for 2 weeks while your leg fully recovers. Avoid core exercises, pilates or inverted poses in yoga for 2 weeks.

 It has been very successful. Clinical studies show success rates of 95–98%, with most patients noticing smoother, more comfortable legs within a few weeks.

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Dr. Rimas Gilvydis along side other vein specialists

Get back to yourself.

We’re proud to be one of three vein centers in Illinois  with an IAC accreditation. Get back on your feet with a team of vein specialists who help you understand your vein treatment options.

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