FAQ
Is your doctor a member of the American College of Phlebology? Yes. This organization is dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of vein disorders, especially cosmetic problems designed to treat vein conditions. Make sure you check out the credentials of the doctor you plan to visit.
Five years ago I had a vein stripping performed on both legs. Now the veins are back. Why? What do I do now?
Unfortunately, vein stripping may not treat the source of all the varicose veins, so there is still venous reflux in other parts of your saphenous system which were not affected by the stripping. This is why we feel EVLA, although relatively new compared to stripping, may in fact be permanent more often than not.
Will insurance pay for my treatment?
Yes. Insurance will often reimburse 80-100% of the treatment cost when done in our office. If you have a correctable problem which can be documented by a Doppler Duplex exam and meet your carriers criteria, we will provide the diagnostic and procedure codes for pre-certification by your insurance company. You will know how much your insurance company will pay and what your portion will be. Nearly everyone with painful bulging veins meets the standard for reimbursement. If your problem is considered cosmetic with no pathology, insurance will not pay.
I've been told that I need vein strippings to treat the large varicose veins in my lower legs. Is this what you would recommend?
To find the best treatment for you, we would perform an initial evaluation and then if needed, a Doppler Duplex Ultrasound Scan. As for vein stripping, EVLA is extremely effective in eliminating unhealthy veins with little or no discomfort and downtime. As of this writing, it has better overall results than Closure® and is more popular.
What can I do to prevent varicose veins?
While you cannot entirely prevent varicose veins, there are quite a few ways to improve your vein health. Compression hose may also help improve circulation by preventing blood from pooling in the leg veins. Factors that contribute to the formation of varicose veins are: pregnancy, hormone replacement therapy, birth control pills, professions which require prolonged standing or sitting, obesity, lack of exercise and increasing age.
Do you have consultations to determine what procedures are needed?
Yes, this is the first step to tailoring a treatment plan that is right for you. During your initial visit, the affected areas will be examined to determine if a Doppler Duplex Ultrasound will be necessary. Once the appropriate treatments have been determined, we will review the costs and other relevant details with you to ensure you are fully informed.
Why do I need to have an ultrasound scan?
The first step in finding the right treatment for damaged veins is finding its source. A Doppler Duplex Ultrasound Scan provides a visual window, revealing the diseased, refluxing veins beneath the skin's surface. With this diagnostic capability, we can pinpoint the exact cause of varicose veins and customize a treatment plan for each individual patient and each damaged vein.
If I've had my veins treated, how often should I come in for a follow-up?
We recommend regular follow-up visits because vein disease is progressive, and there is no cure. However, there are ways to minimize symptoms and increase your overall health by reducing the number of varicose veins in your legs. Call our office to schedule your follow-up scans.
Is the use of hot tubs good for my veins?
NO. That's because exposure to heat causes veins to dilate and become larger. In order to maintain venous function, vein size needs to remain consistent.
Do I have to wear compression hose?
You don't, and many of you won't, but regular use of compression hose is regarded by many vein specialists as one of the most important advances in the treatment of venous disease. Some patients do benefit from hose, therefore it is an individual assessment.
Where do spider veins come from?
Many patients have inherited these disorders although spider veins may be triggered by pregnancy, hormonal variations or minor trauma. Some patients complain of symptoms like itching, burning or stinging, restless legs and minor aches and pains. Although surface veins are mainly a cosmetic problem, they can also be an indication of more serious vein disease deep below the surface.
Phone: (540) 777-1711 or (800) 354-1922
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