Five weeks after EVLT I have pain and swelling, is this normal?

I still have a pulling sensation and the same feeling I had when I still had my vein prior to EVLT five weeks ago. I also notice that the areas of incision and my ankles are swollen. Is this normal? I had my post-op ultrasound and all seemed OK.

Answers from doctors (5)


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Jun 21, 2017

If your ablation was full leg, this is an unusual practice. It can cause more complications and discomfort. You can speed up healing by massaging over the treated vein with a little firm pressure several times per day. I recommend you wear you hose if you are getting swelling at this point. and also massage over the incisions as there can be a little scar tissue developing. I recommend resuming activity such as walking and exercise which will also help with our circulation. If you are concerned, you should return to your treating surgeon.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

If your ablation was full leg, this is an unusual practice. It can cause more complications and discomfort. You can speed up healing by massaging over the treated vein with a little firm pressure several times per day. I recommend you wear you hose if you are getting swelling at this point. and also massage over the incisions as there can be a little scar tissue developing. I recommend resuming activity such as walking and exercise which will also help with our circulation. If you are concerned, you should return to your treating surgeon.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Oct 14, 2014

The pulling sensation is due to the treated vein contracting and swelling is a normal occurrence post ablation. These symptoms may take 2 to 3 months to resolve. Wearing compression hose, wet heat to the area and ibuprofen may help.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

The pulling sensation is due to the treated vein contracting and swelling is a normal occurrence post ablation. These symptoms may take 2 to 3 months to resolve. Wearing compression hose, wet heat to the area and ibuprofen may help.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Published on Jun 09, 2014

The pulling sensation is normal because the vein is shrinking. A lump around the incision is normal. The swelling should go away.

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Answered by Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

The pulling sensation is normal because the vein is shrinking. A lump around the incision is normal. The swelling should go away.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


The pulling sensation is normal usually resolves in about 6 months. I am not sure why you have multiple incisions from EVLT that is done through a single puncture. Did you have a ligation and stripping? If it was EVLT and the swelling is worse I would recheck the ultrasound. The vein could have reopened or other veins not treated. If similar edema to before procedure there could be deep vein reflux that may leave some residual swelling.

Answered by HeartCare Associates Vein Center (View Profile)

The pulling sensation is normal usually resolves in about 6 months. I am not sure why you have multiple incisions from EVLT that is done through a single puncture. Did you have a ligation and stripping? If it was EVLT and the swelling is worse I would recheck the ultrasound. The vein could have reopened or other veins not treated. If similar edema to before procedure there could be deep vein reflux that may leave some residual swelling.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Aluna Vein Centers

Published on Jun 06, 2014

Pulling after procedure is very common. You need stretching exercises and possibly take an anti-inflammatory.

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Answered by Aluna Vein Centers

Pulling after procedure is very common. You need stretching exercises and possibly take an anti-inflammatory.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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