Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins

Modern Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins in Auckland

Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA), also known as Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT), is widely regarded as the gold standard for treating varicose veins. This minimally invasive procedure effectively treats the underlying cause of varicose veins by closing the faulty vein responsible for blood pooling in the legs.

At The Vein Centre, we use advanced laser technology combined with ultrasound guidance to provide safe, effective, and comfortable treatment for patients suffering from varicose veins.

How Does Laser Treatment Work?

Varicose veins develop when vein valves become damaged and blood flows backwards, causing veins to enlarge and become visible beneath the skin. EVLA treats the source of the problem by sealing the affected vein from the inside.

The procedure is most commonly used to treat:

• Great Saphenous Vein (GSV) in the thigh

• Small Saphenous Vein (SSV) in the calf

Once the diseased vein is closed, blood is naturally redirected into healthy veins, improving circulation and relieving symptoms.

What Happens During the Procedure?

Laser treatment is performed under local anaesthetic in our clinic and does not require a hospital stay.

Using ultrasound guidance, a fine laser fibre is inserted into the affected vein through a small puncture in the skin. The fibre is carefully positioned at the top of the vein before a protective anaesthetic solution is placed around the vein. This solution helps minimise discomfort and protects surrounding tissues from heat.

The laser energy is then delivered as the fibre is slowly withdrawn, causing the vein wall to collapse and seal shut.

Because varicose veins are often twisted and tortuous, laser treatment is frequently combined with ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy to achieve the best cosmetic and medical results.

Benefits of EVLA Treatment

Laser treatment offers many advantages compared with traditional vein stripping surgery:

• Minimally invasive procedure

• Performed under local anaesthetic

• No hospital admission required

• Minimal scarring

• Quick recovery

• High success rates

• Excellent long-term results

• Return to normal activities within a few days

Most patients are able to walk immediately after treatment and return to work shortly afterwards.

Advanced Laser Technology at The Vein Centre

For many years, The Vein Centre successfully used the Venacure® 1470nm laser system with NeverTouch® fibres. As technology evolved, we introduced radial fibre technology, which has been shown to reduce post-procedure discomfort and improve patient experience.

We subsequently adopted the NeoV 1470nm laser platform with radial microfibres to provide even greater comfort during recovery.

As one of the first clinics in New Zealand to introduce 1940nm laser technology, The Vein Centre continues to invest in the latest advances in vein treatment. This newer wavelength provides highly targeted treatment of the vein wall while minimising heat transfer to surrounding tissues, helping to reduce discomfort and bruising while maintaining excellent treatment outcomes.

Is Laser Treatment Painful?

Most patients tolerate EVLA very well. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, and patients typically experience only mild discomfort from the anaesthetic injections.

After treatment, some tightness, tenderness, or bruising along the treated vein may occur, but these symptoms usually settle within a few days to weeks.

Recovery After Laser Treatment

Recovery from laser treatment is generally straightforward. Patients are encouraged to walk immediately after the procedure and maintain normal daily activities.

You may be advised to:

• Wear compression stockings

• Walk regularly

• Avoid prolonged standing or sitting

• Avoid strenuous exercise for a short period

Most patients return to work within one to three days, depending on the nature of their occupation.

Who Is Suitable for EVLA?

Laser treatment is suitable for many patients with symptomatic varicose veins, including those experiencing:

• Leg aching or heaviness

• Swelling

• Night cramps

• Itching around varicose veins

• Skin changes or venous eczema

• Bleeding varicose veins

• Venous ulcers

• Varicose veins affecting your self-confidence (might not be covered by your private medical insurance)

An ultrasound assessment is performed before treatment to determine the most appropriate management plan.

Why Choose The Vein Centre?

The Vein Centre is dedicated exclusively to the diagnosis and treatment of venous disease. Our experienced team uses state-of-the-art ultrasound imaging and the latest laser technologies to deliver personalised treatment plans with a strong focus on patient comfort and long-term results.

All laser treatments include routine follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure the best possible outcome.

If you are concerned about varicose veins or would like to learn more about laser treatment options, contact The Vein Centre to arrange a specialist vein assessment.