EVLT and VenaSeal are both used to close a diseased vein and redirect blood flow to healthier ones nearby — but they get there differently, and the right choice depends on your specific case.
How EVLT works
Endovenous Laser Therapy uses a thin laser fiber inserted into the vein, delivering heat that seals it shut from the inside. It requires local anesthetic along the length of the vein and is one of the most established, well-studied treatments available.
How VenaSeal works
VenaSeal uses a small amount of medical adhesive delivered through a catheter to close the vein — no heat involved. Because it doesn’t require extensive numbing, many patients find it more comfortable, and most skip compression stockings afterward entirely.
| EVLT | VenaSeal | |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Heat (laser) | Medical adhesive |
| Anesthetic needed | Local, along the vein | Minimal |
| Compression stockings after | Usually, 2–4 weeks | Usually not required |
| Return to activity | A few days | Often same day |
So which one is right for you?
Vein size, location, and your own priorities around downtime all factor in — which is exactly what your consultation and ultrasound determine. Some patients are candidates for either; others have anatomy that points clearly toward one option. Your specialist will walk you through the reasoning for your specific case rather than a one-size-fits-all answer.
