How Much Does Endovenous Laser Initial Vein Cost?
Also known as: Endovenous laser 1st vein (CPT 36478)
Endovenous ablation of the greater saphenous vein using laser or radiofrequency energy to treat varicose veins.
The total estimated cost of Endovenous Laser Initial Vein (CPT 36478) is $829 to $1,554, including hospital fees, anesthesia, and supplies. The surgeon's Medicare fee alone is $247.
Total Estimated Cost of Care
This estimate includes hospital facility fees, anesthesia, and supplies .
Patient Guide: Endovenous Laser Initial Vein
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
Under local anesthesia, a thin catheter is inserted into the damaged vein through a small puncture. Laser or radiofrequency energy heats and seals the vein shut. Blood reroutes through healthy veins.
How Long Does It Take?
45-60 minutes per leg
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Varicose veins, venous insufficiency, leg swelling and heaviness, venous ulcers, cosmetic concern
How to Prepare
Wear loose pants. Purchase compression stockings as directed (you will wear them for 1-2 weeks after). You can walk immediately after and should stay active. Avoid hot baths for 1 week.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Endovenous laser 1st vein
How to Reduce Your Cost for Endovenous laser 1st vein
Practical tips that can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars
- 1 Ask about cash-pay discounts
Many hospitals and clinics offer 20-40% discounts for self-pay patients. Always ask before scheduling.
- 2 Compare facility vs. office setting costs
For this procedure, the office rate ($980) differs from the facility rate ($247). Ask if it can be done in an office setting.
- 3 Shop around — costs vary significantly
Costs can vary 2-3x between providers in the same city. Get quotes from multiple facilities.
How is the Price Calculated?
Medicare calculates procedure payments using Relative Value Units (RVUs). Each procedure has three components multiplied by a conversion factor ($33.40 in 2026) and adjusted by geographic cost indices.
Payment = Total RVU (29.35) x CF ($33.40) = $980
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Endovenous laser 1st vein cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Endovenous laser 1st vein is $247. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Endovenous laser 1st vein cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Endovenous laser 1st vein can range from 150% of Medicare to 500% of Medicare depending on the facility. Many hospitals and clinics offer self-pay discounts of 20-40% off their chargemaster price. Always ask about cash pricing before your visit.
Does insurance cover Endovenous laser 1st vein?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Endovenous laser 1st vein when ordered by a physician for a medically necessary reason. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan's deductible, copay/coinsurance structure, and whether you use an in-network provider. Check with your insurance company before scheduling to confirm coverage and get a cost estimate.
Why does the cost vary so much by location?
Medicare adjusts payments using Geographic Practice Cost Indices (GPCIs) that reflect local differences in physician work costs, practice expenses, and malpractice insurance. Manhattan, San Francisco, and other high-cost areas pay significantly more than rural regions. Commercial insurers follow similar geographic patterns.