International patients · USA & Canada
Varicose Vein Treatment Abroad for Patients from the USA & Canada
Quick answer: Patients from the USA and Canada can have varicose veins treated at LEDAS in Busan, Korea, a JCI-accredited vein clinic with English-speaking coordinators. Treatment uses EVLT laser and ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy under local anesthesia, without incisions, and you leave the same day. Plan for a long flight, and arrange follow-up with a doctor at home.
Key facts at a glance
- Language: English-speaking international coordinators; English consultation line +82-70-4895-5086.
- Accreditation: Joint Commission International (JCI), 4 consecutive cycles, 2015–2028.
- Methods: EVLT (1940nm diode laser), DGS/UGFS and SCT. RFA and VenaSeal are not offered.
- Anesthesia: local only; no incision; same-day discharge.
- Fees: first visit with ultrasound 180,000 KRW; treatment averages about 5,500,000 KRW per leg. Exact quote after ultrasound.
- Documents: medical statements available in English.
Should I consider varicose vein treatment abroad?
Endovenous treatments such as EVLT are widely available in the USA and Canada, so travelling is a personal choice rather than a necessity. North American patients who come to LEDAS usually have a specific reason: they are already visiting Korea for work or family, they have Korean heritage, they had recurrent veins and want another opinion, or they are comparing out-of-pocket costs. Our Korea vs USA page sets out the differences fairly.
If you are considering it, weigh three things honestly: the long flight and clot risk, who will look after you once you are home, and whether your insurer will contribute anything to treatment abroad.
What does LEDAS offer that North American patients look for?
- Specialisation: a clinic devoted to vein disease, with over 22 years of varicose vein practice and more than 20,000 varicose vein procedures.
- Detailed diagnosis: 15–20 minute standing duplex ultrasound on Philips EPIQ Elite systems, explained to you on screen.
- Combined treatment: EVLT for the main vein, plus duplex-guided sclerotherapy for hidden branches, often in the same visit.
- International standards: JCI accreditation for four consecutive cycles.
Note that LEDAS does not perform radiofrequency ablation or cyanoacrylate glue (VenaSeal), which are common in North America. See EVLT vs RFA and EVLT vs VenaSeal .
How do I travel from the USA or Canada to Busan?
Flights
Most travellers fly to Seoul (Incheon) on a long-haul flight of roughly 11–15 hours depending on departure city, then connect to Busan's Gimhae Airport or take the KTX train (about 2.5 hours). Some routes connect via other Asian hubs.
Entry rules
US and Canadian citizens have historically been able to visit Korea for short stays without a visa, but may need an electronic travel authorisation, and rules change. Always check the latest requirements with the Korean Embassy or Consulate, or the official Korean visa portal, before booking.
Arrival
Coordinators can arrange airport or station pick-up and help book a hotel near Seomyeon.
How long should I stay after treatment before flying home?
This is the most important question for North American patients. Long-haul flights increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis, and recent vein treatment is a factor your doctor will consider. LEDAS will advise when it is appropriate for you to fly, based on your treatment and check-up. Plan several days in Korea rather than flying out the same evening. Read flying after vein treatment and how many days you need in Korea .
How will follow-up work once I'm back home?
- Ask LEDAS for an English treatment certificate and summary before discharge.
- Share it with your family doctor or a local vein specialist, who can do an ultrasound check if needed.
- Keep in touch with your LEDAS coordinator for questions.
- Book a LEDAS ultrasound check whenever you are next in Korea; the clinic recommends one every 1–2 years.
Call 911 (or your local emergency number) for sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing blood, or a suddenly swollen, painful leg.
Questions to weigh before treatment abroad
| Question | What LEDAS provides | What you arrange |
|---|---|---|
| Is my diagnosis right? | Full duplex ultrasound in Busan | Bring any previous scans |
| Which method? | EVLT + sclerotherapy, planned after ultrasound | Compare with options at home |
| What will it cost? | Exact quote after ultrasound | Check insurer, flights, hotel |
| Is flying safe? | Doctor advises on timing and stockings | Allow extra days in Korea |
| Who follows me up? | Coordinator contact; checks when in Korea | A local doctor for ultrasound if needed |
Patients from the USA & Canada – frequently asked questions
Will my US or Canadian insurance pay for treatment in Korea?
Often not, but it depends entirely on your plan. Some policies cover care abroad and many exclude elective procedures. Contact your insurer before you travel and ask what paperwork they need. LEDAS issues English documents on request. See travel and international health insurance.
Is everything explained in English at LEDAS?
Yes. English-speaking international coordinators support you from the first message to discharge and follow-up, and medical statements can be issued in English. The real-time English consultation line is +82-70-4895-5086, and email is kbjledaspm@gmail.com.
Can I combine treatment with a vacation in Korea?
Yes, with sensible limits. Light walking is encouraged after treatment, but avoid saunas, hot baths, heavy exercise and long periods of standing still for the first weeks. Your coordinator can suggest gentle activities. Read wellness tourism in Busan.
What if I need a check-up but can't return to Korea?
Take your English treatment summary to a local vein specialist, who can perform a duplex ultrasound and compare it with LEDAS's findings. Your coordinator can help relay questions to Dr. Kim. LEDAS checks are done whenever you are next in Korea.
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: Korea vs USA · Patients from Japan · Patients from Kuwait & the Gulf · Second opinion · International patients
Considering treatment in Korea? Get an honest assessment first
English consultation available · +82-70-4895-5086 · kbjledaspm@gmail.com
