Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) is a modern, minimally invasive treatment used to close diseased veins and restore healthy blood circulation in patients with varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency. Compared to traditional vein surgery, EVLA offers faster recovery, minimal discomfort, and excellent long-term results.
Turkey has become a leading destination for EVLA treatment thanks to advanced vascular expertise, modern medical technology, and cost-effective care. At Istanbul Vein Center, EVLA is performed using internationally accepted protocols with a strong focus on patient comfort and durable outcomes.
What Is Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)?
Endovenous Laser Ablation is a procedure that treats faulty veins—most commonly the great saphenous vein—by delivering controlled laser energy inside the vein. This energy causes the vein walls to collapse and seal shut, allowing blood to naturally reroute through healthy veins.
Over time, the treated vein is absorbed by the body, while symptoms such as leg pain, swelling, heaviness, and visible varicose veins gradually improve.
EVLA is considered one of the gold standard treatments for venous reflux because it addresses the root cause of varicose veins rather than only their appearance.
Conditions Treated with EVLA
EVLA is commonly used to treat:
- Varicose veins
- Chronic venous insufficiency
- Venous reflux disease
- Leg pain, heaviness, and fatigue related to vein disease
- Swelling and skin changes caused by poor venous circulation
Patients who experience worsening symptoms after long periods of standing or sitting often benefit significantly from EVLA treatment.
Who Is a Good Candidate for EVLA?
Most patients with symptomatic varicose veins are suitable candidates for EVLA. Ideal candidates typically include individuals who:
- Have venous reflux confirmed by Doppler ultrasound
- Experience leg pain, swelling, or heaviness
- Have visible or progressing varicose veins
- Prefer a minimally invasive alternative to surgery
- Want a quick return to daily life
A detailed vascular assessment is always required to determine suitability. At Istanbul Vein Center, each patient undergoes a personalized evaluation before treatment planning.
How EVLA Treatment Is Performed
EVLA is performed as an outpatient procedure and usually takes less than one hour.
The process includes:
- Local anesthesia for patient comfort
- Ultrasound-guided insertion of a thin laser fiber into the vein
- Controlled delivery of laser energy along the vein
- Closure of the diseased vein without surgical incisions
Because the procedure is minimally invasive, patients typically walk immediately after treatment and return home the same day.
All EVLA procedures are supervised by Prof. Dr. Ahmet Arnaz, ensuring precise technique and adherence to modern vascular standards.
EVLA vs Traditional Vein Surgery
Endovenous Laser Ablation has largely replaced traditional vein stripping surgery due to its minimally invasive nature and superior patient comfort. While both methods aim to eliminate faulty veins, their approach and recovery profiles differ significantly.
Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)
- Performed through a small needle puncture
- No surgical incisions or stitches
- Local anesthesia only
- Faster recovery and return to daily activities
- Lower risk of complications
Traditional Vein Surgery
- Requires surgical incisions
- Often performed under general or spinal anesthesia
- Longer recovery period
- Higher risk of bruising and postoperative discomfort
For most patients, EVLA provides an effective and safer alternative to surgery while delivering long-term relief from varicose vein symptoms.
Benefits of Endovenous Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins
EVLA offers multiple advantages, especially for patients seeking effective treatment with minimal disruption to daily life.
Key benefits include:
- Minimally invasive procedure
- Immediate improvement in venous circulation
- Significant reduction in leg pain, swelling, and heaviness
- No hospital stay required
- Excellent cosmetic results
- High long-term success rates
At Istanbul Vein Center, EVLA is performed using modern laser systems that allow precise energy delivery and optimal vein closure.
Recovery After EVLA Treatment
Recovery after EVLA is typically quick and comfortable, making it an ideal option for working professionals and international patients.
What to Expect After the Procedure
- Patients walk immediately after treatment
- Mild tightness or discomfort may occur for a few days
- Compression stockings are usually recommended
- Most patients return to normal activities within 24–48 hours
Heavy exercise may be limited temporarily, but daily movement is encouraged to support healthy blood flow.
Healing Timeline
- First days: mild bruising or tenderness may be present
- First weeks: symptoms such as pain and swelling begin to improve
- Following months: treated vein is gradually absorbed by the body
Regular follow-up ensures proper healing and long-term success.
Safety and Effectiveness of EVLA
Endovenous Laser Ablation is considered a safe and well-established procedure with high success rates when performed by experienced vascular specialists.
Clinical outcomes show:
- High vein closure rates
- Low complication risk
- Long-lasting symptom relief
Under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Ahmet Arnaz, patient safety and precision treatment remain top priorities.
Why Choose Istanbul Vein Center for EVLA Treatment in Turkey
Choosing the right clinic for Endovenous Laser Ablation is as important as the procedure itself. Long-term success depends on accurate diagnosis, correct technique, and experienced vascular supervision.
At Istanbul Vein Center, EVLA treatment is not performed as a cosmetic procedure alone—it is planned as a vascular intervention targeting the underlying cause of venous disease.
Vascular-Focused Diagnosis
Every patient undergoes a detailed Doppler ultrasound examination to:
- Identify venous reflux
- Map diseased veins accurately
- Determine the most effective treatment strategy
This prevents unnecessary procedures and improves long-term outcomes.
Expertise of Prof. Dr. Ahmet Arnaz
All EVLA procedures are evaluated and supervised by Prof. Dr. Ahmet Arnaz, whose clinical focus includes:
- Chronic venous insufficiency
- Minimally invasive vein treatments
- Advanced endovenous techniques
This level of expertise ensures both safety and durability of treatment results.
Modern Technology and Patient Comfort
- Advanced laser systems
- Ultrasound-guided precision
- Local anesthesia only
- Same-day discharge
Patients benefit from high medical standards with a comfortable treatment experience.
International Patient-Friendly Care
Istanbul Vein Center offers a structured approach for international patients, including:
- Clear English communication
- Efficient scheduling
- Personalized treatment planning
Turkey’s central location and medical expertise make it an ideal destination for EVLA treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About EVLA Treatment
What is Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA)?
EVLA is a minimally invasive procedure that uses laser energy to close diseased veins from the inside, allowing blood to reroute through healthy veins and relieving symptoms of venous insufficiency.
Is EVLA painful?
EVLA is performed under local anesthesia. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during and after the procedure. Any mild tightness usually resolves within a few days.
How long does EVLA treatment take?
The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis.
When can I return to normal activities after EVLA?
Most patients return to daily activities within 24–48 hours. Walking is encouraged immediately after the procedure.
Are the results of EVLA permanent?
When performed correctly and on properly selected veins, EVLA provides long-lasting vein closure. Follow-up and lifestyle guidance help maintain results.
Is EVLA better than vein stripping surgery?
For most patients, yes. EVLA offers:
- Faster recovery
- Less pain
- No surgical incisions
- Excellent cosmetic and functional outcomes