EVLT Information
With or Without Foam Sclerotherapy
Pre- and Post-Procedure Details
EVLT Preparation Instructions
To ensure a smooth and successful EVLT procedure, please follow these steps in advance:
- Arrive 10 minutes before your appointment.
- Procedure duration: 1 to 1.5 hours depending on treatment.
- No driver required after the procedure.
- Take regular medications unless otherwise instructed.
- Eat and drink as usual; avoid alcohol and caffeine from the evening before.
- Shower as usual but do not shave or apply creams/lotions to legs on procedure day.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing for your trip home.
- Have over-the-counter anti-inflammatories ready:
- Naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn) or Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Compression stockings will be ordered at least 2 weeks before the date of your procedure; custom stockings require 3–4 weeks.
- Avoid long-distance travel (air/car) for 2–4 weeks after procedure.
- Payment due on procedure day: VISA/MasterCard, debit, cash, e-transfer accepted.
- One week’s notice required for cancellations.
Post-Operative Care: EVLT
Endovenous Laser Therapy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicose veins by sealing the diseased vein using laser energy. After the procedure, it’s important to follow your care instructions closely to support proper healing and prevent complications.
Key Aftercare Guidelines:
First 48 Hours
- Keep custom-fitted compression stocking(s) and bandage on for 48 hours.
- Some oozing from tiny incisions is normal (often anesthetic fluid).
- Walk frequently (~30 min/day) to promote healing.
- Resume normal activities but avoid heavy lifting, running, or extreme activity for 1 week.
- Take anti-inflammatories to reduce swelling:
- Naproxen (220 mg twice daily) OR Ibuprofen (200–400 mg three or four times daily) for 7–10 days.
- Tylenol may be taken in addition if needed.
48 Hours to 2 Weeks
- Remove initial stocking and bandage; replace with clean stocking and wear during waking hours for 2 weeks.
- Continue wearing stockings longer if they relieve symptoms.
- Wash stockings in cold water, delicate/low dry—do not hang to dry.
- Tightness, pulled muscle sensation, and bruising are common—walking can help.
- Use ice packs (over stockings) for swelling if needed (15 minutes at a time).
- For redness, discomfort, swelling, or pain in groin/behind knee: continue anti-inflammatories; if symptoms persist >2 days, contact clinic.
- Seek emergency care if sudden shortness of breath occurs.
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If Foam Sclerotherapy Was Performed
- Bruising, discolouration, hardness, or lumpiness along treated veins is normal.
- Use warm compresses and continue anti-inflammatories.
- If skin becomes red or hot despite medication, call the clinic.
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Important Notes
- Varicose veins will shrink gradually over 8+ weeks.
- Progress will be checked at follow-up appointment, the date for which will be determined by the surgeon based on veins treated.
- Bring compression stockings to your follow-up visit.
Downloadable Instructions
Stratford Vein Clinic serves patients from across Southwestern Ontario. Our team of medical professionals provide varicose vein treatments including EVLT, Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy, Microphlebectomy, and Vein Stripping.
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Hours
Please note, we only see patients during pre-scheduled appointments. If you wish to self-refer, you can do so by completing the form on this page or by calling us during the following business hours. If you're being referred by a doctor, please direct them to this page.
Mon-Fri 8:30-4:00