If you’ve never sought out vein treatment before, it can be natural to feel a bit uneasy going into your first appointment. Fortunately at NYMD, we have an experienced vein specialist on staff, Michael Aziz, MD, that can help ease any of your fears or anxieties you may be experiencing. When you choose our team, you’ll be in great hands for the entirety of your vein treatment.
Vein Treatment
What Are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged, bulging veins usually found in the legs; they can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as swelling and achiness. There are a variety of life events that can cause vein problems, such as pregnancy, a job where you’re on your feet a lot and/or wearing heavy gear. Also, vein issues can result from genetic factors. Even without these risk factors, you can develop problems with blood flow in your lower extremities. Almost 1 in 3 people over the age of 45 have some kind of venous disease.
Conditions we treat:
Problems of the vascular system are common and can be serious. While you are more likely to have vascular disease as you get older, everyone is at risk. With the increase in obesity and Type II diabetes in Americans and as the population ages, vascular diseases are becoming epidemic. In fact, peripheral artery disease (PAD) alone affects 8.5 million people. It can occur in anyone at any time; affecting men and women equally.
There are several other factors that make vascular disease more likely. They include high cholesterol, family history of vascular or heart diseases, smoking, pregnancy, illness or injury and/or long periods of standing still.
At NYMD, our vein specialist, Michael Aziz, MD, offers a broad range of treatment options in the area of vein and vascular care and catheter-based interventions for vascular disease. We offer minimally invasive procedures using advanced imaging technology to diagnose and treat conditions that affect arteries, capillaries, and veins including:
Vein Treatment Q&A
Why should I be concerned about my veins?
Vein disease can cause a lot of symptoms in your legs:
- Aching and painful legs/feet.
- Blood clots.
- Discoloration.
- Tiredness and fatigue.
- Restless legs.
- Leg cramps, throbbing, or swelling.
- Skin irritation.
- Varicose/Spider veins.
- Venous ulcers.
Early symptoms may seem minor. However, more serious problems like ulcers and skin changes can develop if not treated in time. These issues may be permanent.
What are my treatment options?
We always strive to give you the best results possible with the least invasive procedures available. During your initial evaluation, we will review the compression stocking option and other lifestyle changes that may help your legs feel better prior to scheduling any procedure. Based on what you and your physician discuss you will mutually decide on a plan of action.
How do we diagnose your problem?
During your first visit, we’ll go over any questions you may have! You will then have an ultrasound performed by your vein screening specialist. Based on your ultrasound results and detailed evaluation by our healthcare team, we can determine what’s going on with your veins and what exactly is causing issues in your legs.
What is Radio Frequency Vein Ablation (RFA)?
This technique allows us to treat the cause of your problems without any surgery. This unique procedure uses a specialized catheter to close off any affected veins (varicose veins) that are causing issues for your body by improving circulation and functionality of your legs.
What is Sclerotherapy?
We offer sclerotherapy to treat spider veins and other unappealing veins. this form of therapy usually follows radio frequency vein ablation to ensure improved functionality and presentability of your legs.
What is Varithena®?
Varithena® (polidocanol injectable foam) is a prescription medicine used to treat varicose veins caused by problems with the great saphenous vein (GSV) and other related veins in the leg’s GSV system. Varithena® improves symptoms related to or caused by varicose veins, and the appearance of varicose veins. Varithena® is administered by the doctor into the malfunctioning veins. The minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment doesn’t require incisions. The doctor usually numbs the injection site, but no additional anesthesia is required.
Learn more about Varithena® here.
How is the procedure performed and is this surgery?
On your treatment day, an ultrasound technician will map out the location of the affected vein/s needing treatment. Then, your leg will be thoroughly cleaned to prevent any possible infection. You will be given local anesthesia to numb the affected area (Similarly to what dentists use). Using technological advances, we will close the affected vein/s from the inside. NO incisions or cuts are required or made by the physician. A small band-aid is used to cover the procedure site afterwards and a compression stocking is applied over the treated leg to prevent bruising, tenderness, and to ensure proper blood flow throughout your leg. The total length of the procedure from start to finish in 30 minutes.
What happens after my procedure?
- You CAN return to work the day after your procedure.
- There are NO activity limitations after, but do NOT engage in any strenuous activity, take a bath or swim for 24 hours.
- You CAN take a shower.
- You WILL wear a compression stocking when you leave the office, which you WILL need to sleep in for the first 2 days after treatment, removing it ONLY to shower.
- It is VERY important to keep moving and maintain a normal level of activity. Walking twice daily for 20 minutes is encouraged and promotes a speedy recovery.
- Avoid ANY prolonged sitting or standing for the first week.
- Elevate BOTH of your legs at least 3 times a day for 5-10 minutes.