Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are the most obvious symptom of vein disease, but not all symptoms are visible. Others include burning, cramping, fatigued or heavy legs, possible skin discoloration or even open sores.

Our expert team will assess your veins through ultrasound mapping, revealing the shape and size of the veins in your legs and allowing our physicians to accurately locate the unhealthy veins for treatment. If vein disease is present, documentation will be sent to your insurance provider, and Charlotte Radiology will request maximum coverage for your upcoming procedures. EVLT is always performed first, and it’s generally covered by insurance, along with follow-up medical Sclerotherapy. If your ultrasound reveals no vein disease, you may still opt to move forward with cosmetic Sclerotherapy to treat your spider veins, which is a self-pay treatment option.

Every patient begins with a new patient visit. Our dedicated team of physicians, nurses, technologists and coordinators will work with you to customize a treatment plan and ensure maximum potential for insurance coverage. During the new patient visit, we’ll perform the initial vein mapping, you’ll consult with one of our subspecialized physicians, and receive a diagnosis and treatment plan before you leave.

Prior to the procedure, you may request mild sedation medication to help you relax without putting you to sleep. You’ll remain awake and comfortable during the procedure. The area of the leg affected will be numbed with a local anesthetic before a small catheter is inserted. The physician will use a laser to close the impaired vein, naturally rerouting blood to surrounding healthy veins instead.

You must wear compression stockings for the first 24 hours to encourage healing and decrease swelling. After 24 hours, you may remove the stockings to sleep; however, they must be worn at all other times over the course of two weeks. You may resume normal activity after the procedure, but no heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for two weeks. If you experience any discomfort, you may take Tylenol or ibuprofen. Soreness generally disappears after 24 hours, although mild soreness may last 7-10 days.

Our vein services coordinator will help schedule appointments and obtain insurance approvals. Prior to EVLT, you will be required to purchase prescription-strength compression stockings (do this a week prior to ensure you have them in time!). Shower and wash your legs thoroughly on the day of the procedure. Do NOT apply lotion, cream or powder. Bring loose fitting pants to wear after the procedure. You must have a driver with you at check-in (he or she may leave during the procedure and return to pick you up).

• SouthPark Vein Center
• Lake Norman Vein Center

EVLT may be covered by insurance following a period of conservative therapy (compression stockings). Our vein services team will work with you to obtain any insurance approvals.

If submitting your vein treatment through insurance, your insurance card must be presented at your appointment, and any payment due is expected at the time of service.

Estimates for services are provided ahead of time, and patient financing options are available. Charlotte Radiology will verify insurance coverage and benefits; however, specific questions regarding your individual policy and coverage should be directed to your insurance carrier, as insurance plans and benefits vary widely.