FAQ · Timing

How Long Does EVLT Laser Vein Treatment Take?

Quick answer: The EVLT laser procedure itself is short, typically well under an hour for one leg, and sclerotherapy injections add only a few minutes. At LEDAS the whole treatment day, from admission and pre-operative ultrasound to walking, monitoring and discharge, fits into a single day. Most patients go home the same day.

EVLT laser fibre entering a varicose vein during a short procedure at LEDAS

Key facts at a glance

  • Diagnostic ultrasound: about 15–20 minutes.
  • EVLT procedure: short; typically well under an hour per leg.
  • Sclerotherapy (DGS/SCT): a few minutes.
  • Hospital stay: same-day admission and discharge.
  • Back to daily life: the same day for most routine activities.
  • Light walking period: 2–4 weeks.

How long does the laser part of EVLT take?

EVLT (endovenous laser treatment) closes a leaking vein from the inside. The doctor numbs the leg, passes a hair-thin laser fibre into the vein under ultrasound guidance, and slowly draws it back while the laser seals the vein wall. The laser itself runs for only a few minutes. Most of the procedure time is spent on careful ultrasound positioning and numbing.

Exact timing depends on how long the treated vein is, whether the great or small saphenous vein (or both) needs treatment, and how many branch veins are treated at the same session.

How long is the whole treatment day?

At LEDAS the day follows a clear sequence:

  1. Admission
  2. ECG check
  3. Pre-operative ultrasound to confirm the vein map
  4. EVLT and injection therapy
  5. Compression stocking fitting and training
  6. Monitoring while you walk
  7. Discharge

Allow most of a day for the whole process. Your coordinator or the reception team will tell you when to arrive. See same-day discharge explained .

How long does the first visit take?

The first visit includes a consultation and a standing duplex ultrasound of about 15–20 minutes. The doctor explains the screen while scanning, so you leave knowing which veins leak and what the plan is. Add time for registration and questions.

Do I need more than one session?

Main vein

Usually the main leaking vein in a leg is treated with EVLT in one session.

Smaller veins

Branch and spider veins may need one or more sclerotherapy sessions. Each takes only a few minutes. See how many sclerotherapy sessions you need .

Both legs

If both legs need treatment, the doctor decides whether to treat them on the same day or separately. Read treating both legs .

How long until I recover?

  • Same day: walk out of the clinic and resume routine daily activities.
  • 1–2 weeks: a pulling feeling along the vein is common and fades.
  • 2–4 weeks: keep to light walking; avoid strenuous exercise, saunas and hot baths.
  • Follow-up: ultrasound check as scheduled, then every 1–2 years.

For the full picture, see the recovery timeline .

How many days should I plan if I'm travelling?

For visitors from abroad, plan extra days around treatment for the ultrasound, possible additional sclerotherapy and rest before a long flight. Read how many days you need in Korea .

Seek urgent care if you develop sudden breathlessness, chest pain or a hot, swollen calf after treatment.

Time needed at each stage

Stage Typical time
Duplex ultrasound (first visit) About 15–20 minutes
EVLT procedure (one leg) Short; typically well under an hour
Sclerotherapy (DGS/SCT) A few minutes
Whole treatment day Fits in one day; same-day discharge
Pulling discomfort after EVLT Commonly 1–2 weeks
Light-walking period 2–4 weeks

EVLT timing – frequently asked questions

  • Can I have the ultrasound and EVLT on the same day?

    Sometimes. It depends on your ultrasound findings and the day's schedule. This is often helpful for patients travelling from far away. Ask when booking, and the team will tell you whether it is likely to be possible for you.

  • Why does the laser part take only a few minutes?

    The laser simply seals the inside of the vein as the fibre is drawn back. Most of the procedure time goes into placing the fibre accurately under ultrasound and numbing the leg properly, which is what makes the treatment precise and comfortable.

  • Can I go back to work the next day?

    Many people return to desk work quickly, often the next day. Jobs with heavy lifting or long periods standing still may need more time. Walk regularly, wear stockings, and follow your doctor's advice. See when can I exercise again.

  • Does treating both legs double the time?

    It adds time, but not always double, and the doctor may recommend treating each leg on a separate day. The decision depends on how many veins need treatment and your general health.

About this page

Clinical information: LEDAS Varicose Vein Clinic, led by Dr. Kim Byoung Joon , thoracic and cardiovascular surgeon, founding member of the Korean Society for Phlebology.
Medical reviewer: Dr. Kim Byoung Joon · Review status: Pending · Last updated: October 2026
This page is general information and not a diagnosis. Treatment is decided only after an in-person examination. Read our editorial policy .

Related: Is treatment painful? · Can I walk after treatment? · When can I exercise again? · Recovery timeline · Treatment process

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