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Endovenous Laser Ablation Treatment

Eliminate painful varicose veins with precision laser technology—minimally invasive treatment delivering proven results in under an hour with same-day recovery.

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Understanding EVLA / EVLT

What Is Endovenous Laser Ablation?

Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA), also called endovenous laser treatment (EVLT), is an FDA-approved, minimally invasive procedure that uses targeted laser energy to treat varicose veins caused by chronic venous insufficiency. Under ultrasound guidance, a thin laser fiber is inserted directly into the diseased vein through a tiny entry point—typically no larger than a needle stick. As the fiber is slowly withdrawn, controlled laser pulses heat the vein wall from the inside, causing it to collapse and seal shut permanently. Blood immediately reroutes through healthy veins, eliminating both the appearance and symptoms of varicose veins.

For over two decades, EVLA has been recognized as the gold-standard treatment for large, symptomatic varicose veins. Clinical studies consistently demonstrate success rates exceeding 95% at five years, with significantly fewer complications and faster recovery compared to traditional surgical stripping. The procedure is performed entirely in-office under local anesthesia, allowing most patients to return to normal activities within 24 to 48 hours.

  • Minimally Invasive: Tiny entry point, no surgical incisions required
  • Ultrasound-Guided Precision: Real-time imaging ensures accurate treatment
  • 95%+ Success Rate: Clinically proven long-term vein closure
  • Office-Based Procedure: No hospital stay, completed in under an hour
  • Rapid Recovery: Resume daily activities within 1-2 days

What Conditions Does EVLA/EVLT Treat?

Endovenous laser ablation is specifically designed to treat symptomatic varicose veins caused by venous reflux—a condition where faulty valves allow blood to flow backward and pool in superficial veins.
  • Varicose Veins: EVLA targets the incompetent saphenous veins (great or small saphenous) that feed bulging, rope-like varicose veins on the legs. By closing the source vein, visible varicosities shrink and symptoms resolve.
  • Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI): When vein valves fail to function properly, blood pools in the lower legs, causing swelling, heaviness, and skin changes. EVLA restores healthy circulation by eliminating the diseased vein pathway.
  • Leg Pain and Heaviness: Aching, throbbing, or fatigue in the legs—especially after prolonged standing—often results from venous reflux. Sealing the damaged vein alleviates discomfort within weeks.
  • Leg Swelling and Edema: Persistent swelling in the ankles and calves caused by poor venous return responds well to EVLA as healthy veins resume normal drainage.
  • Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS): In cases where RLS symptoms stem from underlying venous insufficiency, treating the diseased vein can significantly reduce nighttime leg discomfort and restlessness.
The Science Behind EVLA

How Endovenous Laser Ablation Works

While the following steps outline the standard EVLA procedure, Dr. Verebelyi customizes every treatment to your unique venous anatomy, symptom profile, and lifestyle needs.

Ambulatory Phlebectomy for Varicose Veins
  1. Pre-Treatment Mapping:
    Using ultrasound imaging, Dr. Verebelyi maps the entire venous system, identifying the precise location and extent of venous reflux. This diagnostic step ensures only diseased veins are treated while preserving healthy vessels.
  2. Local Anesthesia:
    A series of small injections deliver tumescent anesthesia—a dilute numbing solution—around the vein to be treated. This provides complete comfort during the procedure and protects surrounding tissue from heat.
  3. Laser Fiber Insertion:
    Under continuous ultrasound guidance, a thin catheter is inserted into the diseased vein through a tiny entry point near the knee or ankle. A specialized laser fiber is then threaded through the catheter to the treatment area.
  4. Controlled Laser Delivery:
    As the fiber is slowly withdrawn along the length of the vein, laser energy heats the vein wall to approximately 120°C, causing immediate collagen contraction and vein collapse. The vein seals permanently shut.
  5. Immediate Vascular Rerouting:
    Once the diseased vein is closed, blood instantly redirects through deeper, healthy veins that are designed to handle the increased flow. The body gradually absorbs the sealed vein over the following weeks.
  6. Post-Procedure Compression:
    A compression bandage or stocking is applied to the treated leg, supporting the healing process and optimizing results. Most patients walk out of the office immediately following treatment.
The Treatment Process

What to Expect

Our comprehensive approach begins with thorough evaluation and continues through every stage of your treatment journey, ensuring optimal results and complete patient comfort.

before laser hair removal

Before Treatment

Your consultation includes a comprehensive vascular ultrasound performed by Dr. Verebelyi, a Registered Vascular Technician (RVT) with over 20 years of diagnostic expertise. You’ll receive personalized pre-treatment guidance to ensure optimal results.

  • Diagnostic Ultrasound: Maps venous anatomy, confirms candidacy
  • Pre-Treatment Instructions: Medication adjustments, clothing guidance
  • Consultation Duration: 30-45 minutes

During Treatment

Tumescent anesthesia is administered through small injections, ensuring complete comfort while Dr. Verebelyi uses live ultrasound guidance to deliver precise laser treatment. You remain awake and pain-free throughout.

  • Local Anesthesia: Brief pinching, then complete numbness
  • Ultrasound-Guided: Real-time laser fiber positioning and monitoring
  • Minimal Discomfort: Gentle warmth or tugging, no pain
  • Treatment Duration: 45-60 minutes

After Treatment

A compression bandage or stocking is typically applied immediately, and you’ll walk for 10-15 minutes in-office before being released. Most patients return to normal routines within 24-48 hours.

  • Immediate Walking: 10-15 minutes in-office
  • Mild Side Effects: Tenderness or bruising, resolves in 7-10 days
  • Activity Limits: Avoid strenuous exercise one week; walking encouraged
  • Return to Work: Within 24-48 hours for most patients

What Results Can You Expect?

While EVLA delivers consistently strong outcomes across a broad patient population, individual results depend on factors including vein anatomy, symptom severity, and adherence to post-treatment care. The following timelines represent typical experiences based on clinical data and our practice outcomes.

Immediate & Short-Term Recovery

  • Same-Day Mobility: Walk out immediately; driving permitted (ride recommended)
  • Return to Work: Next day for desk jobs; 48 hours for most routines
  • Common Side Effects: Mild bruising, tenderness, tightness (1-2 weeks)
  • Compression Stockings: Continuous wear 48-72 hours, then daytime only for one week
  • Activity Restrictions: Avoid high-impact exercise, heavy lifting, prolonged standing 7-10 days
  • Daily Walking: Encouraged throughout recovery
  • Visible Improvement: Begins within 2-4 weeks as vein is reabsorbed

Long-Term Outcomes

  • Success Rate: 95-98% permanent vein closure at five years
  • Symptom Resolution: Pain, heaviness, swelling resolve within 4-6 weeks
  • Vein Absorption: Treated vein absorbed over 3-6 months, no scarring
  • Aesthetic Results: Smoother, clearer skin with significantly improved appearance
  • Quality of Life: Greater mobility, reduced discomfort, renewed confidence
  • Recurrence: Treated veins won’t reopen; new veins may develop over time
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Questions About EVLA? Ask Ava.

Ava, our AI assistant, is available 24/7 to provide instant, personalized responses to your questions about endovenous laser ablation—including candidacy, recovery expectations, insurance coverage, and how to prepare for your procedure.

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Our Team

20+ Years of Vascular Excellence

Laser Vein Treatments

The team at Colorado Skin & Vein, led by David Verebelyi, MD, RVT, and Christina Jordan, FNP, CANS, has been treating vein conditions for over two decades, earning a reputation as leaders in advanced vascular and laser medicine.

Dr. David Verebelyi serves as Chief of Laser Surgery at Colorado Skin & Vein, bringing over 20 years of specialized experience in venous care and minimally invasive vein treatments.

  • Double board-certified physician
  • Registered Vascular Technician with advanced diagnostic imaging expertise
  • Fellow & Instructor, American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery
  • Personally performs all vein procedures using state-of-the-art technology
  • Holds honors MD and B.S. in Science & Psychology
Frequently Asked Questions

EVLA/EVLT Frequently Asked Questions

Does EVLA/EVLT hurt?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during treatment. Most patients report only mild pressure or warmth. Post-procedure discomfort is minimal—typically described as muscle soreness—and easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
The actual laser treatment takes 45-60 minutes from start to finish. Including preparation and post-procedure walking, plan for approximately 90 minutes in-office.
Most patients with desk jobs return to work the next day. If your job requires prolonged standing or heavy lifting, plan for 3-5 days of modified activity before resuming full duties.
Yes. Compression stockings are worn continuously for the first 48-72 hours, then during waking hours only for an additional 5-7 days. Compression optimizes healing and minimizes bruising.
EVLA is typically covered by insurance when medically necessary to treat symptomatic varicose veins caused by venous reflux. Coverage requires documentation of symptoms and a diagnostic ultrasound showing venous insufficiency. We verify benefits and obtain pre-authorization before treatment.
Clinical studies show that EVLA achieves 95-98% vein closure rates at five years post-treatment, making it one of the most effective varicose vein treatments available.
The sealed vein remains in your body but becomes a fibrous cord that your body gradually absorbs over 3-6 months. It no longer carries blood and eventually becomes undetectable.
The specific vein treated with EVLA will not reopen. However, genetic predisposition means new varicose veins may develop in other areas over time. These can be treated with additional procedures if needed.
Symptom relief (reduced pain, heaviness, swelling) typically begins within 1-2 weeks. Visible improvement in vein appearance becomes noticeable at 3-4 weeks and continues to improve over 3-6 months as the vein is reabsorbed.
Light walking is encouraged immediately. Avoid strenuous exercise, running, heavy lifting, and high-impact activities for 7-10 days. After one week, gradually resume your normal fitness routine.
Most patients take little to no time off work. If your job is sedentary, you can typically return the next day. Jobs requiring prolonged standing or heavy physical labor may require 3-5 days of modified duty.
The entry point is so small (similar to a needle stick) that no stitches are required. Any tiny mark fades completely within weeks, leaving no visible scarring.
Traditional vein stripping requires general anesthesia, multiple incisions, and surgical removal of the vein, resulting in weeks of recovery. EVLA is performed in-office under local anesthesia with a single needle-sized entry point, offering same-day recovery and equal or superior outcomes.

Denver's Trust Vein Experts

20+ years of vascular treatment experience

Double board-certified physician

State-of-the-art laser technology

Most insurance plans accepted

Customized treatment plans

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Danielle Killingsworth, NCMA, Aesthetics Coordinator at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Danielle Killingsworth

NCMA, Aesthetics Coordinator

Danielle is a Colorado native who brings more than 22 years of experience in the medical field. Throughout her career she has developed a diverse clinical background across infectious disease, general surgery, and pain management — giving her a well-rounded understanding of patient care and of what it takes to create a safe, comfortable, and personalized experience.

As Aesthetics Coordinator at Colorado Skin & Vein, Danielle combines that clinical knowledge with a genuine passion for aesthetics. She is dedicated to helping patients feel confident, informed, and supported throughout their aesthetic journey, from the initial consultation through treatment and follow-up care.

She believes one of the most rewarding parts of her career is building meaningful relationships with patients and helping them look and feel their very best.

Outside of work, Danielle enjoys spending time with her family, including her four boys, getting lost in a good book, and working in her garden. Fun fact: she is a dedicated Dallas Cowboys fan.

Nikki Moyta, Operations Director at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Nikki Moyta

Operations Director

For over 26 years, Nikki has dedicated her career to the dermatology and aesthetics industry, building her experience from the ground up — starting in a patient scheduling call center, moving to the front desk, and rising to executive leadership overseeing multiple providers and locations.

Originally from Pittsburgh, she moved to Orlando before starting 10th grade and later attended Seminole State College of Florida. Her career in dermatology began in 2002, scheduling appointments for a multi-location practice. She grew quickly within the organization, moving into front-desk and checkout roles before being promoted to Office Manager in 2008. In 2012, her leadership and operational expertise led the CEO to seek her out for an expanded role overseeing multiple providers and locations — a position she held through 2022.

Outside of her professional career, Nikki is passionate about giving back to the community:

  • Community outreach
  • Voted “Cheerleader of the Practice”
  • 1st Place Winner — Miles for Melanoma

With a career built on leadership, dedication, and a genuine passion for patients and the aesthetics industry, she is excited to bring her experience and enthusiasm to the Colorado community. When she is not in the office, you can find Nikki with her Siberian husky, Compass, somewhere on top of a mountain.

Betina Lacson, RVT at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Betina Lacson

RVT

Betina graduated from the Cardiovascular Technology Program at Grossmont College in California in 2020, and brings more than six years of experience in the duplex world of venous insufficiency. Much of her career has centered on superficial vein mapping and assisting in surgery while providing attentive patient care.

At Colorado Skin & Vein, she assists with venous ablation procedures as well as ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy. She is committed to quality care at every stage — from the initial consultation, through surgery, to post-operative appointments — making sure each patient feels fully supported.

In her free time, Betina loves Kizomba dancing with her Afro-Latin dance community, and can often be found at electronic dance music shows in different cities. If you are feeling generous, she will happily accept a karaoke room or an iced Thai milk tea.

Brooke Owens, PA-C, MPAS at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Brooke Owens

PA-C, MPAS

Brooke Owens, PA-C, MPAS is a compassionate Physician Assistant who brings a strong clinical foundation, exceptional attention to detail, and a patient-centered approach to Colorado Skin & Vein.

Prior to joining the practice, Brooke spent several years in pediatric primary care, caring for patients with a wide range of acute and chronic conditions. She became known for her thorough evaluations, thoughtful clinical decision-making, and ability to build lasting relationships with patients and their families. That experience strengthened her diagnostic expertise while reinforcing the importance of listening carefully, educating patients, and creating individualized treatment plans.

Drawn to the unique blend of medicine, procedures, and patient transformation, Brooke was excited to move into vascular medicine and aesthetic care. She is passionate about helping patients improve not only their health but also their confidence — whether they are seeking treatment for vein disease, skin concerns, or cosmetic enhancements. By combining broad medical experience with advanced specialty training and a meticulous eye for detail, she delivers safe, effective, and personalized care.

Brooke believes the best outcomes begin with trust. She values taking the time to understand each patient’s goals, answer questions, and ensure they feel informed and comfortable throughout their care.

Angel Croce, Staff Manager at Colorado Skin & Vein in Denver

Angel Croce

Staff Manager

Angel has been in healthcare for more than 20 years. Her journey began in 2004, after her father suddenly passed away from a stroke. Losing him was a life-changing experience, and it inspired her to choose a career where she could help others and give patients and their families the care, compassion, and support they need during difficult times.

Throughout her career she has worked across cardiology, neurology, family practice, and urgent care — each experience helping her grow both personally and professionally. She now works in vascular care and aesthetics, where she enjoys building relationships with her patients, helping them understand their care, and making sure they feel comfortable and supported throughout their journey.

Outside of work, Angel is a proud mom of two. Family is incredibly important to her, and in her spare time she loves being outdoors with her husband and their two dogs — hunting, fishing, and enjoying Colorado.

For Angel, healthcare is more than a career — it is personal. What started as a way to honor her father’s memory has become more than two decades of caring for others, and she is grateful to keep doing something that means so much to her every day.