What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are veins which are increased in size. This is the result of failed valves in the veins allowing blood to flow in the wrong direction causing increased pressure and swelling. Varicose veins can be seen as bulging or thin blue lines resembling cob webs. These veins can cause aching, tires or swollen legs. Symptoms like burning and itching are not uncommon as well.

What causes varicose veins?

The vast majority of patients have one or both parents with varicose veins. Second to heredity, working on your feet, being overweight, or leg trauma are also factors. Hormonal changes can cause or worsen varicosities as well.

What are spider veins?

Spider veins are a type of small varicosed vein. They are found in both men and women. In women, spider veins appear to be hormonally induced and are associated with pregnancy and menstruation. Many people have both varicosed and spider veins. Although cosmetic improvement is sought, symptomatic relief occurs as well.

Does vein disease affect women and men the same?

The short answer is no. Statistically, 8% of women 20-29 years of age suffer from varicose or spider veins. This increases with age to 41% of 40-49 year olds. By 60-69 years of age, 72% of women have some type of varicosity.
As for men, 1 % of 20-29 year olds have varicose or spider veins. By 30-39 years, approximately 24% have some disease and by 60-69 years of age, 43% suffer from varicosities.

What should I look for in a physician?

Experience treating venous disease both surgically and with minimally invasive procedures is essential. General/Vascular surgeons are residency trained and most knowledgeable in the treatment options available including the use of lasers. This allows a surgeon to tailor your treatment to your specific needs.

Why not strip the vein?

Stripping has a high recurrence rate of approximately 60% over 5 years. Removing the veins surgically requires incisions, is quite painful and leaves scars. Rarely, this is the only option available and is another reason to choose a board certified surgeon.

What types of laser treatments are available?

Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) is when a laser fiber is inserted into the vein and activated under a local anesthetic in order to close the refluxing vein. The topical laser is activated over the spider veins in order to initiate closure as well.

What is micro-phlebectomy?

This is the removal of larger varicosities through small needle holes. This is usually done at the time of EVLT or as a primary procedure and is performed using local anesthesia. Performing micro-phlebectomy gives the best cosmetic results.

What is sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is the injection of a solution into the spider veins in order to irritate the lining of the vein. This, along with the use of Class II (30-40 mm Hg) compression stockings provides the best cosmetic result.

Can veins in other areas be treated?

We have treated veins which are uncomfortable, unsightly or bleeding in the hands, face, chest, back, and scrotum. Our results with these procedures have been excellent resulting in many satisfied patients.

Will I need hospitalization or take time off from work?

Treatments are preformed in our office and most patients drive themselves home. Most people will take 1-2 days off from work.