What your legs look like after varicose vein laser treatment (with before-and-after examples)

If you're considering treating your varicose veins, you’re probably wondering what the recovery is really like. Is it painful? How quickly will you feel better? And what will your legs actually look like afterwards? In this article, we explore real patient experiences after varicose vein laser treatment, break down the recovery process, and show typical before-and-after results.

What does laser treatment involve?

Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA or EVLT) is a modern technique that uses heat to seal a damaged vein from the inside. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, takes less than an hour, and you can walk out of the clinic the same day.

At UK Vein Care, we carry out this treatment daily with well-documented results and a short recovery time for most patients.

Common questions about recovery after EVLA

Patients searching for experiences after laser treatment often ask:

• What does it feel like afterwards?
  
• When can I walk normally or go back to work?
  
• How long does it take to see results?
  
• Are bruising and swelling normal?
  
• What do legs look like before and after treatment?
  

Here, we’ll answer these based on both medical knowledge and real patient feedback.

Recovery timeline: Step by step

Everyone heals at a slightly different pace, but here’s what a typical recovery looks like:

Days 1–3:
Mild soreness, stiffness, and bruising are common. Most people can walk and return to light duties. You’ll usually wear a compression stocking for 1–2 weeks.

Weeks 1–2:
Bruising may become more visible. Some patients feel a pulling sensation along the treated vein. The area near the entry point may feel tender.

Weeks 3–6:
Bruises start to fade. Many patients notice that symptoms like leg heaviness or cramps improve significantly.

Weeks 6–12:
The final results begin to show. The treated vein fades from view and is gradually absorbed by the body.

Before and after: What do legs look like?

Wondering what your legs might look like after treatment? Here’s a typical example from a real case.

For many, the difference is noticeable within a few weeks. Most people are surprised by how quickly their legs feel lighter and look more natural.

What our patients say

At UK Vein Care, we often hear the following feedback after treatment:

• “It was much easier than I expected.”
  
• “I was back at work after just a couple of days.”
  
• “The bruising faded on its own, and I’m pain-free now.”
  
• “My legs feel lighter and look so much better.”
  

Want to understand more about causes and treatments? We’ve written a comprehensive guide to varicose veins that walks you through everything you need to know.

Clinical perspective: What doctors see

Our vascular specialists generally see quick and uncomplicated recovery in most patients. Occasionally, there may be firmness under the skin or mild tenderness, but these usually resolve on their own. Most patients are encouraged to walk the same day and return to normal life within days.

If you're experiencing aching or tired legs alongside visible veins, read our article about aching legs and what might be causing it.

Possible side effects

Most side effects after laser treatment are mild and short-lived:

• Bruising
  
• A pulling or tight sensation
  
• Light swelling
  
• Temporary numbness around the treated area
  

We explain this further in our article about disadvantages of removing varicose veins so you’ll know what’s normal and what to watch for.

What if I have small visible veins?

Laser is not usually the first choice for small surface veins like thread veins. These are often better treated with sclerotherapy or foam. Read more in our article about thread vein treatment options.

Treatment at UK Vein Care

All treatments at UK Vein Care begin with a detailed duplex ultrasound to ensure accurate diagnosis. We then tailor a treatment plan to suit your needs. Most patients require only one session to see excellent results.