Modern laser therapy for varicose veins in Munich

Varicose veins are not just an aesthetic problem – if left untreated, they can lead to considerable discomfort and serious complications such as skin changes, open legs or thrombosis. At our certified vein center at Sendlinger Tor in Munich, we offer you modern, minimally invasive procedures – above all laser treatment of varicose veins (endovenous thermal ablation).

This method is mentioned in German and international guidelines (e.g. the European Society of Phlebology) as an established treatment option for insufficient truncal veins. It is minimally invasive and associated with comparatively low risks.

Phlebology Phleobology Sendlinger Tor

Why do varicose veins develop?

Causes & medical background

Varicose veins (medical term: varices) are caused by a weakness in the venous valves, which are normally designed to prevent the blood from pooling in the legs. If these valves no longer close properly, the blood builds up in the leg veins, which leads to an increase in pressure and dilation of the vessels.

Risk factors:

  • Family predisposition
  • Standing or sitting for long periods at work
  • Lack of exercise
  • Pregnancy & hormonal changes
  • Overweight
  • Age

Symptoms:

  • Visible, tortuous veins
  • Feeling of heaviness or tension in the legs
  • Pain or cramps, especially at night
  • Swelling of the ankles or lower legs
  • Itching or skin discoloration

Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT)

How does laser treatment for varicose veins work?

Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) replaces traditional stripping surgery in many cases. A fine laser probe is inserted into the diseased vein under ultrasound guidance, usually via a small puncture in the area of the lower leg.

The controlled delivery of laser light (typically 1470 nm or 1940 nm) to the inner wall of the vein causes the vein to shrink and thermally close. The body then breaks it down naturally.

Advantages

– No incisions, no scars

– Minimal pain thanks to local anesthesia

– High closure rates according to current studies

– Can be performed on an outpatient basis

– Rapid return to everyday life

– Fewer complications than with surgical stripping

Study situation:

According to a study by Pavei et al. (J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2020), long-term observations showed stable closure rates with a low risk of recurrence.

How your treatment works

Varicose vein laser treatment procedure

Phlebology Phleobology Sendlinger Tor

1

Specialist examination & advice

Duplex ultrasound for diagnosis
(varicose veins ultrasound)

Consultation vein treatment consultation hautarzt muenchen

2

Carrying out the treatment

– Local anesthesia of the vein using tumescent anesthesia

– If required, the procedure can also be performed under general anesthesia by our anesthesia team.

– Insertion of the laser probe under sterile conditions

– Slow retraction of the probe with simultaneous laser emission

3

Care & first mobilization

– Treatment of the puncture with a plaster, application of a compression bandage

– First mobilization directly after the procedure

1

Specialist examination & advice

Duplex ultrasound for diagnosis
(varicose veins ultrasound)

2

Carrying out the treatment

– Local anesthesia of the vein using tumescent anesthesia

– If required, the procedure can also be performed under general anesthesia by our anesthesia team.

– Insertion of the laser probe under sterile conditions

– Slow retraction of the probe with simultaneous laser emission

Consultation vein treatment consultation hautarzt muenchen

3

Care & first mobilization

– Treatment of the puncture with a plaster, application of a compression bandage
– First mobilization immediately after the procedure

dermatology munich sendlinger tor

4

Control date

– 24-hour telephone availability of the anesthetists

– Regular follow-up checks

Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT)

When is laser therapy useful?

Endovenous laser therapy is particularly suitable for

– Insufficiency of the great saphenous vein (large trunk vein)

– Insufficiency of the saphenous vein parva (small trunk vein)

– Reflux in side branches

– Recurrence after previous surgery (recurrent varicosis)

The method is not suitable for:

– Severely tortuous veins that do not allow for a probe

– Veins close to the surface with a high risk of burns

– Thrombosed sections

In such cases, we will advise you on alternatives such as microfoam sclerotherapy or miniphlebectomy.

Trust creates security

Memberships & media reports

BR TV report Phlebology Dr. Esther Wißmüller

BR Television

In her article on varicose veins, Dr. Esther Wißmüller explains when there is a need for action and which methods are considered the gold standard today.

SZ article on the German Vein Day
SZ article on the German Vein Day

Your recovery is important to us

Aftercare & behavioral tips

Following the treatment, we accompany the healing process with regular, individually tailored check-ups in our practice.

In the long term, however, it is also important to prevent varicose veins from recurring.

Prevention of varicose veins – Exercise & lifestyle

Long-term recommendations:

  • Daily exercise (walking, cycling)
  • Vein-friendly sitting & elevating the legs
  • Avoidance of excess weight
  • Compression stockings for long periods of sitting or standing
Consultation vein treatment consultation hautarzt muenchen
dermatology sendlinger tor

PHLEBOLOGY (DGPL)

Your specialist

Dr. med. Esther Wißmüller

What our patients say

Rated 5 out of 5

July 11, 2024 via jameda.de

“I underwent minimally invasive laser therapy to remove varicose veins on both legs. The treatment went very well as discussed. After only a short time (4-5 days) I was able to start doing light sport again (running, cycling). In addition to the medical result, the cosmetic result is also excellent.”

Dr. med. Esther Wißmüller

Laser treatment

Rated 5 out of 5

June 6, 2015 via jameda.de

“The treatment with Dr. Wissmüller was a complete success. The staff at the practice were also very quick and friendly. I am very satisfied with the treatment of my varicose veins.”

Dr. med. Esther Wißmüller

Treatment of varicose veins

Well informed - well treated

Frequently asked questions about laser treatment of varicose veins (FAQ)

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It's that simple

Modern vein medicine in Munich

Our practice is one of the few centers in Munich that is certified for the use of ELVeS® Radial® technology. We offer you comprehensive advice, individual treatment planning and a dedicated team of experienced specialists.