I had a EVLT two months ago. I still have the same symptoms and I can still feel the closed off vein. Is this normal?

There's a thick vein from my inner thigh all the way down to my lower calf just sitting there. There's some pain and discomfort along with swelling of the ankle.

Answers from doctors (3)


More About Doctor St. Louis Vein Center

Published on Aug 17, 2017

That is not normal or expected. I think it is reasonable to expect improvement of symptoms from the procedure. As far as still feeling the vein, it usually is absorbed into the body over a 6 month to one year period of time, so it is likely to improve over the coming months. I recommend following up with your surgeon and discuss your concerns with him or her.

Answered by St. Louis Vein Center (View Profile)

That is not normal or expected. I think it is reasonable to expect improvement of symptoms from the procedure. As far as still feeling the vein, it usually is absorbed into the body over a 6 month to one year period of time, so it is likely to improve over the coming months. I recommend following up with your surgeon and discuss your concerns with him or her.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Aug 17, 2017

Typically at 2 months you should be pretty much back to normal. However in people who are thin or have had large veins treated you may be able to feel that vein for longer as it is superficial. I usually recommend massage over the vein with Arnica or Dermaka cream several times per day, with some pressure, hose during the day especially if up on your feet a lot at work. It should pass. I typically do not treat in the lower calf with the EVLT as it can cause more discomfort and other problems. I would recommend you return to your surgeon for reevaluation with ultrasound also. Swelling may or may not be related, especially if there was some present prior to treatment.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Typically at 2 months you should be pretty much back to normal. However in people who are thin or have had large veins treated you may be able to feel that vein for longer as it is superficial. I usually recommend massage over the vein with Arnica or Dermaka cream several times per day, with some pressure, hose during the day especially if up on your feet a lot at work. It should pass. I typically do not treat in the lower calf with the EVLT as it can cause more discomfort and other problems. I would recommend you return to your surgeon for reevaluation with ultrasound also. Swelling may or may not be related, especially if there was some present prior to treatment.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Aug 17, 2017

The vein that you feel is the clotted great saphenous vein resulting from the laser closure procedure. Wet heat to the area and ibuprofen should help the discomfort. Two months is a long time to still be uncomfortable. If the vein is easy to feel through the skin it can be drained under local anesthesia with a small needle. Follow up with your treating physician.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

The vein that you feel is the clotted great saphenous vein resulting from the laser closure procedure. Wet heat to the area and ibuprofen should help the discomfort. Two months is a long time to still be uncomfortable. If the vein is easy to feel through the skin it can be drained under local anesthesia with a small needle. Follow up with your treating physician.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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