If something was seriously wrong after EVLA, would I know it?

I had endovenous laser ablation to the great saphenous vein 4 months ago and still have some stinging/burning on a daily basis. It more so occurs when standing. If something was seriously wrong would I know it? It is normal to experience unbearable pain, swelling of the leg, throbbing, etc?

Answers from doctors (10)


Americas Vein Centers - Southborough

Published on Mar 21, 2013

You need to be re-evaluated.

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Answered by Americas Vein Centers - Southborough

You need to be re-evaluated.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein Center

Published on Mar 19, 2013

It is rare to have complaints this far out after endovenous laser ablation (EVLA). You should see the doctor who treated you or get a second opinion.

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Answered by Advanced Vein Center

It is rare to have complaints this far out after endovenous laser ablation (EVLA). You should see the doctor who treated you or get a second opinion.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein 911

Published on Mar 18, 2013

These symptoms are not typical 4 months after EVLA. I suggest a follow-up visit with your vein care physician. If you do not trust your physician, get a second opinion.

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Answered by Vein 911

These symptoms are not typical 4 months after EVLA. I suggest a follow-up visit with your vein care physician. If you do not trust your physician, get a second opinion.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Arizona Vein Specialists

Published on Mar 18, 2013

It is normal to have slight symptoms after the endovenous laser ablation procedure, but on a level of 1 or 2/10. If there was something wrong, your doctor should have discovered it since the standard of care is to follow these patients with ultrasound. My preference is at 1 week, 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 6 months or longer, if indicated.

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Answered by Arizona Vein Specialists

It is normal to have slight symptoms after the endovenous laser ablation procedure, but on a level of 1 or 2/10. If there was something wrong, your doctor should have discovered it since the standard of care is to follow these patients with ultrasound. My preference is at 1 week, 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 6 months or longer, if indicated.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Mar 18, 2013

The symptoms that you describe are all symptoms that can occur following endovenous ablation. Certainly, 4 months is a long time to continue to be symptomatic. I have seen prolonged symptoms, especially in thin legs where the vein is close to the skin. In these cases, the heat of the laser can burn the inside of the skin, above the saphenous vein. This can lead to prolonged discomfort and swelling that is bothersome. I would recommend a repeat venous ultrasound and a follow-up with your physician.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

The symptoms that you describe are all symptoms that can occur following endovenous ablation. Certainly, 4 months is a long time to continue to be symptomatic. I have seen prolonged symptoms, especially in thin legs where the vein is close to the skin. In these cases, the heat of the laser can burn the inside of the skin, above the saphenous vein. This can lead to prolonged discomfort and swelling that is bothersome. I would recommend a repeat venous ultrasound and a follow-up with your physician.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Intermountain Vein Center

Published on Mar 18, 2013

It is common for symptoms to persist for up to 1 yr, but unbearable is not how I would describe it. Have you followed up with the physician? It is important to have follow up appointments to make sure there are no complications. There also could be other veins that need to be treated that could give you those symptoms as well.

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Answered by Intermountain Vein Center

It is common for symptoms to persist for up to 1 yr, but unbearable is not how I would describe it. Have you followed up with the physician? It is important to have follow up appointments to make sure there are no complications. There also could be other veins that need to be treated that could give you those symptoms as well.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein & Laser Centre, Ltd.

Published on Mar 18, 2013

After reading your question, it seems clear to me that you need to contact your treating physician and discuss these issues in person.

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Answered by Advanced Vein & Laser Centre, Ltd.

After reading your question, it seems clear to me that you need to contact your treating physician and discuss these issues in person.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Published on Mar 18, 2013

You should have treating MD examine and evaluate your symptoms.

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Answered by Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

You should have treating MD examine and evaluate your symptoms.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Clinic of North Carolina

Published on Mar 18, 2013

It is not uncommon to have some discomfort following EVLA; however, it should not be unbearable. I would recommend a follow-up with the physician that did your treatment.

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Answered by Vein Clinic of North Carolina

It is not uncommon to have some discomfort following EVLA; however, it should not be unbearable. I would recommend a follow-up with the physician that did your treatment.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Heart and Vein Center

Published on Mar 18, 2013

Your symptoms are not usual unless you had a very large and superficial vein. Some anti-inflammatories should help relieve the discomfort. Try to get a second opinion with a board-certified vein specialist.

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Answered by Heart and Vein Center

Your symptoms are not usual unless you had a very large and superficial vein. Some anti-inflammatories should help relieve the discomfort. Try to get a second opinion with a board-certified vein specialist.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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