When it comes to seeking treatment for spider and varicose veins, finding the right vein clinic is not simple. Take the time to explore your options and find someone compatible for your care.
There are 6 questions we believe every patient should have answered before vein treatment.
- Who Is The Vein Specialist
A vein specialist is ideally board-certified in a vascular speciality (cardiology, vascular medicine or vascular surgery). Too often, we are now seeing vein clinics staffed by non-vascular physicians, in which case they might lack the experience for spider and varicose vein treatment. - What Vein Treatments Are Offered
Vein treatment in this day and age has become far more simplified and easier on patients. Most treatments can be performed in the office without surgical incisions or sedation. Effective treatments include vein ablation, sclerotherapy, and phlebectomy. - How is Vein Disease Evaluated
The presence of spider and varicose veins suggests vein disease. Symptoms including leg cramps, restless legs, and/or swelling are further indication. The diagnosis of vein disease can only be made with a diagnostic ultrasound to look at the size and function of leg veins. - Is My Condition Dangerous
Spider and varicose veins are in large part harmless. There are very few individuals who develop more serious concerns related to DVT (blood clots), skin discoloration, or skin ulcerations. Vein treatment should be guided by a desire to improve quality of life rather than unnecessary worry. - Does Insurance Cover Vein Treatments
Unless you have only cosmetic concerns, you are going to want to learn about your insurance coverage. This includes understanding your co-insurance for treatment with medically recommended procedures. Most indicated procedures are covered and a dedicated insurance specialist can provide worry-free authorizations. - Are Spider Veins Treated Here
Shockingly, not all vein doctors treat spider veins. This is often by choice as some vein doctors add vein ablation to their medical clinics (cardiology, pain management, dermatology). These offices focus only on higher paying procedures and avoid more time-consuming spider vein treatments. A dedicated vein clinic will provide comprehensive care with honest treatment expectations.
The Vein Specialist Centers are a network of dedicated vein clinics in New Jersey and New York. Our vein specialists are board-certifed experts in spider and varicose vein treatment providing comprehesnive vein care under one roof. Using cutting-edge therapies, we offer our patients minimally-invasive solutions for spider and varicose veins. To schedule your consultation online or call us at 609-257-2095 to find your nearest clinic.
What To Consider Before Visiting A Vein Restoration Center
If you are tired of dealing with spider veins or varicose veins, you have certainly encountered the difficulty of finding a vein treatment center that meets your needs. Most patients are seen without a referral for various reason including:
- Younger patients do not have primary care doctors
- Many primary care physicians are also unaware of where to send patients for safe and effective vein treatments
- Patients are uncomfortable discussing their spider and varicose veins
- Lack of awareness on medical coverage for vein treatment
Instead, most patients present with self-referrals after an online search. Unfortunately, that task can be quite daunting with little guidance on what qualities to assess about the center for vein restoration or vein specialist. Too often, patients are lured by gimmicks such as free varicose vein consultation near me or over-stated claims of superiority. We recommend a careful and patient approach to your research.
We present this guide to help you on your search to find the best vein specialist for your region.
A Guide For Finding The Right Center for Vein Restoration
Board-certified
What kind of doctor specializes in veins? This is the most important quality to ascertain. Having a board-certified vein doctor should mean a physician with formal fellowship or residency training in vascular medicine. ABVLM or phlebology is not recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialities (ABMS) due to the absence of formal training. ABVLM is a written test only and can be obtained by anyone without procedural competency. Appropriate questions to ask:
- Did you perform vascular procedures in residency or fellowship?
- Are you board-certified in vascular surgery, invasive cardiology or interventional radiology?
- Did you perform vein procedures during residency or fellowship?
- What doctor treats varicose veins at this clinic?
- Does the doctor have hospital privileges to perform procedures? If the doctor cannot be credentialed at the hospital for similar work, that is a clear red flag.
- Do you perform diagnostic ultrasounds for venous insufficiency?
Personalized Care
A Vein clinic should be dedicated to the diagnosis and management of spider and varicose veins. Vein disease requires a focused effort to guarantee quality and safety. Avoid medical clinics that read like a buffet. Just like your heart specialist cannot be your botox or cosmetic filler expert, we cannot expect a quality vein clinic to also run full time practices in aspects different then vein medicine.
Do Not Feel Rushed
Select a vein treatment doctor who listens to your questions and addresses them directly. While vein treatment may not be as complex as it used to be, achieving relief and personal satisfaction from your treatments requires a patient and attentive doctor. Selecting a vein doctor you feel comfortable with is likely to be associated with better results.
Latest Treatment Options
The most effective vein treatments are now done completely in the office and in under one hour. The procedures are minimally-invasive, which means no sutures or scalpels. In fact, the procedures can be done with little more than local anesthetic to numb the skin. The most advanced techniques include:
- Radiofrequency RF vein ablation
- VenaSeal
- Laser vein treatment
- Sclerotherapy
- Clarivein
- Ambulatory Phlebectomy
One approach does not work for varicose vein treatment. At the best vein clinics, you will find a comprehensive discussion of all the available treatment options that can be tailored to your individual condition. While it might be convenient for some vein doctors to crank out RF vein ablations, the truth is the finer details rest with caring and competent physicians who also utilize sclerotherapy and micro-phlebectomy.
Key Points to Remember at Your Vein Consult:
- Board-certified vascular specialists with formal training in endovascular procedures
- Surgical stripping is no longer a necessary treatment saving patients from more complex, painful procedures
- On-staff vascular imaging doctors with expertise in ultrasound. These individuals have certification with RPVI (registered physician in vascular interpretation)
- On-staff certified ultrasound technicians. This guarantees your diagnostic studies are following a standardized protocol and performed by knowledgeable technicians
- State-of-the-art treatments and facilities: Vein disease is not a one-size fits all approach and patients are best served by a team of vein specialists that can provide a full service of vein treatments. This includes endovascular techniques such as RF ablation and Venaseal
- Quality and satisfying results are achieved with vein specialist comfortable with time-intensive procedures like sclerotherapy and phlebectomy
Call Us Today!
Let Princeton Vascular guide you to a treatment option.
Why Princeton Vascular Centers
Our vein treatment center is among the first of its kind to establish a collaborative group of experts from vascular surgery and invasive cardiology to treat spider and varicose veins. Our balanced approach means a tailored plan for each patient customized to preferences and anatomy. You can also feel confident in the knowledge that all our vein doctors have completed formalized cardio-vascular residency programs and have years of experience in treating vein disease. Every member of our team stays up-to-date on the latest spider and varicose vein treatments, as we are dedicated to our patients’ health, comfort and success.
For more information about one of the Best Vein Clinics in America, please schedule your spider vein and varicose vein consultation today.
Locations Convenient to most of New Jersey!
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Meet our Vein Doctors
Dr. Alissa Brotman O’Neill
Double Board Certified | Harvard University
Dr. Alissa Brotman O’Neill is an accomplished vascular surgeon and vein specialist in Princeton, NJ, Edison, NJ and Mt. Laurel, NJ.
Dr. Faisal Siddiqi
Double Board Certified| Yale Medical School
Dr. Siddiqi proudly offers the latest technology available for spider and varicose vein treatments at his offices in Freehold, NJ, Edison, NJ and Point Pleasant, NJ.
Dr. Simon Smith
Board Certified Cardiovascular and Vein Disease Specialist
Dr. Smith is currently serving patients at the Vein Treatment Clinic in Clifton and Wayne, New Jersey.
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Guide to The Best Vein Clinics in America
If you are suffering from varicose veins, then it’s likely that not a day goes by without seeing or sensing something is not right about your legs. For many Americans, this is the result of spider and varicose veins creating not only an unwelcome sight, but also an uncomfortable daily experience of leg pain, heaviness, or restlessness. Fortunately, vein treatment is very effective these days and non-surgical, which means no down-time. If you have made the decision to seek out relief, your next hurdle is finding a reputable vein treatment center for some personalized attention.
We present this guide to help you on your search to find the best vein specialist for your region.
Simple Rules for Selecting The Best Vein Clinics in the US
Board-certified
What kind of doctor specializes in veins? This is the most important quality to ascertain. Having a board-certified vein doctor should mean a physician with formal fellowship or residency training in vascular medicine. ABVLM or phlebology is not recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialities (ABMS) due to the absence of formal training. ABVLM is a written test only and can be obtained by anyone without procedural competency. Approriate questions to ask:
- Did you perform vascular procedures in residency or fellowship?
- Are you board-certified in vascular surgery, invasive cardiology or interventional radiology?
- Did you perform vein procedures during residency or fellowship?
- What doctor treats varicose veins at this clinic?
- Does the doctor have hospital privileges to perform procedures? If the doctor cannot be credentialed at the hospital for similar work, that is a clear red flag.
- Do you perform diagnostic ultrasounds for venous insufficiency?
Personalized Care
A Vein clinic should be dedicated to the diagnosis and management of spider and varicose veins. Vein disease requires a focused effort to guarantee quality and safety. Avoid medical clinics that seem to be do-it-all! You should not expect your primary care physician or pain management doctor to be the right place for your vein treatment.
Modern Vein Treatments
The most effective vein treatments are now done completely in the office and in under one hour. The procedures are minimally-invasive, which means no sutures or scalpels. In fact, the procedures can be done with little more than local anesthetic to numb the skin. The most advanced techniques include:
- Radiofrequency RF vein ablation
- VenaSeal
- Laser vein treatment
- Sclerotherapy
- Clarivein
- Ambulatory Phlebectomy
There is not a one approach for all patients. At the best vein clinics, you will find doctors competent with all treatment modalities to craft a tailored plan for your individual condition. While it’s convenient to focus on RF vein ablation and sclerotherapy, the best results depend on having a larger set of skills.
Key Points to Remember at Your Vein Consult:
- Board-certified vascular specialists with formal training in endovascular procedures
- On-staff vascular imaging doctors with expertise in ultrasound. These individuals have certification with RPVI (registered physician in vascular interpretation)
- On-staff certified ultrasound technicians. This guarantees your diagnostic studies are following a standardized protocol and performed by knowledgeable technicians
- State-of-the-art treatments and facilities: Vein disease is not a one-size fits all approach and patients are best served by a team of vein specialists that can provide a full service of vein treatments. This includes endovascular techniques such as RF ablation and Venaseal, but also microphlebectomies for larger, more difficult varicose veins not suitable for sclerotherapy
- Surgical stripping is no longer a necessary treatment saving patients from more complex, painful procedures
Call Us Today!
Let Princeton Vascular guide you to a treatment option.
Why Princeton Vascular Centers
Our vein treatment centers in NJ are among the first of its kind to establish a collabortive group of experts from vascular surgery and invasive cardiology to treat spider and varicose veins. Our balanced approach means a tailored plan for each patient customized to preferences and anatomy. You can also feel confident in the knowledge that all our vein doctors have completed formalized cardio-vascular residency programs and have years of experience in treating vein disease. Every member of our team stays up-to-date on the latest spider and varicose vein treatments, as we are dedicated to our patients’ health, comfort and success.
For more information about one of the Best Vein Clinics in America, please schedule your spider vein and varicose vein consultation today.
Locations Convenient to most of New Jersey!
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Meet our Vein Doctors
Dr. Alissa Brotman O’Neill
Double Board Certified | Harvard University
Dr. Alissa Brotman O’Neill is an accomplished vascular surgeon and vein specialist in Princeton, NJ, Edison, NJ and Mt. Laurel, NJ.
Dr. Faisal Siddiqi
Double Board Certified| Yale Medical School
Dr. Siddiqi proudly offers the latest technology available for spider and varicose vein treatments at his offices in Freehold, NJ, Edison, NJ and Point Pleasant, NJ.
Dr. Simon Smith
Board Certified Cardiovascular and Vein Disease Specialist
Dr. Smith is currently serving patients at the Vein Treatment Clinic in Clifton and Wayne, New Jersey.
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What Is A Varicose Veins Doctor Called
IVY TRAINED VEIN DOCTORS | TOP RATED VEIN CENTER| SPIDER AND VARICOSE VEIN TREATMENT CLINIC
A Varicose Vein Doctor
A varicose vein doctor is a physician that specializes in treating varicose veins and the underlying condition, venous insufficiency. A varicose vein doctor should have completed formal training in endovenous procedures during his/her residency or fellowship training. In general, these specialists have a background in vascular surgery, interventional radiology or interventional cardiology. With board-certification, these physicians are able to demonstrate a level of proficiency that meets the highest standards of the profession. Some vein doctors may possess a background in pain management, internal medicine, or family medicine. However, potential patients should be aware these specialties do not include varicose vein treatment in the scope of their practice. In the absence of formalized training in surgical or minimally-invasive endovascular procedures, some doctors will complete industry-sponsored certification courses that are not designed to meet the same level of standards.
The categories of physicians managing varicose vein and spider vein disease can be divided into 3 categories:
- Vascular Surgeon
- Vein Specialist
- Phlebologist
Vascular Surgeons:
Vascular surgeons possess formalized training backgrounds in the management of vascular disease, both arterial and venous. Vascular surgeons must complete 5 years of general surgery training followed by 2 years in sub-specialty training for vascular medicine. In doing so, vascular surgeons undergo rigorous training in the diagnosis and management of surgical disease including endovascular, minimally invasive techniques. Cardiology and interventional radiology fellowships often work in collaboration with vascular surgery programs to provide in-depth training for trainees. At the end of training, vascular surgery involves testing by the ABMS (American Board of Medical Specialties). Proficient trainees are awarded board-certification to demonstrate their competency in the management of venous and arterial disease. This includes recognition as a board-certified expert to diagnose and treat varicose vein disease.
Advantages of Vascular Surgeon:
- Board-certified vascular specialists with completion of intensive residency and fellowship training for vascular medicine
- Best-suited to manage both simple and complex vein disease due to breadth of training
- Can provide complete care for both pre and post-procedure management
- Maintain hospital privileges for vascular medicine (Hospital accreditation for vascular medicine is based on board-certifications in ABMS-only recognized specialties)
Need to Consider:
- Every training program has different exposures to endovascular treatments. Varicose vein disease is now managed with minimally-invasive techniques rather than vascular surgery. Be certain that your vascular surgeon treats vein disease with modern, non-surgical techniques when appropriate
Phlebologists:
Phlebologists are not uniform in background and include individuals who have not received formal training for endovascular procedures during residency or training. The typical phlebologist will have a board-certification in general surgery, internal medicine, pain management, cardiologists and or even vascular surgery. ABVLM is the board-certification to recognize phlebologist however is still not recognized as a true specialty by the Americal Board of Medical Specialites (ABMS) due to the absence of any formal training programs or standards. Phlebologists with this certification do not need to complete any formalized training programs in vascular medicine but can obtain “board-certification” simply by passing a written test. Physicians with board-certifications in internal medicine, pain management, or family medicine often sit for the ABVLM exam to increase their status, however patients should remain cautious as the test simply does not test any technical proficiency. Phlebologists without training in either vascular surgery, cardiology or interventional radiology should not be automatically assumed as vascular specialists.
Advantages of Phlebologists
- A limited number of physicians who have also completed formalized training programs in either vascular surgery, interventional radiology or invasive cardiology.
Need to Consider
- Phlebologists should be examined for backgrounds in ABMS recognized specialties such as interventional cardiology or vascular surgery
- A written examination is the only requirement for obtaining ABVLM certification
- Phlebologists with incomplete training are not required to be experts in vascular management
- Does the phlebologist have hospital privileges to perform similar procedures?
Vein Specialist:
A vein specialist is used by many practicing vein doctors with varied backgrounds similar to phlebologists. Again, it should be emphasized that vein specialists should ideally have ABMS recognized board-certification in one of three specialties: Invasive cardiology, vascular surgery or interventional radiology. ABVLM or non-vascular board certifications in non-vascular specialties simply do not have the experience of a formalized training in endovascular procedures. And while modern varicose vein treatment no longer requires surgery, it does not imply that a vascular specialist is not recommended.
Advantages of Vein Specialists
- Vein Specialists are ideally ABMS board-certified in either vascular surgery, invasive cardiology or interventional radiology
- Interventional specialties possess unique skills for minimally-invasive techniques learned during rigorous training programs
Who Is The Best Vein Doctor By Specialty?
If you have varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency, the best vein doctor to see is a ABMS board-certified specialist with a focus on varicose vein disease.
It’s true that not all varicose vein doctors are vascular surgeons, however considering that vascular disease management requires a significant amount of experience and skill, we recommend you consult only physicians with a background in vascular surgery, interventional radiology or interventional cardiology.
Call Us Today!
Let Princeton Vascular guide you to a treatment option.
Why Princeton Vascular Center?
The Princeton Vascular Center offers modern varicose vein treatment only in the hands of the best vein specialists in the country. Our vein doctors can be trusted to have completed formalized vascular training programs and have years of prior experience in treating vein disease. Most importantly, all our doctors have board-certifications in either vascular surgery or cardiovascular disease.
With our multiple locations, you can rest assured that you can find the best vein doctor for your care anywhere in New Jersey. For more information, please schedule your spider vein and varicose vein consultation today.
Locations Convenient to most of New Jersey!
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Meet our Vein Doctors
Dr. Alissa Brotman O’Neill
Double Board Certified | Harvard University
Dr. Alissa Brotman O’Neill is an accomplished vascular surgeon and vein specialist in Princeton, NJ, Edison, NJ and Mt. Laurel, NJ.
Dr. Faisal Siddiqi
Double Board Certified| Yale Medical School
Dr. Siddiqi proudly offers the latest technology available for spider and varicose vein treatments at his offices in Freehold, NJ, Edison, NJ and Point Pleasant, NJ.
Dr. Simon Smith
Board Certified Cardiovascular and Vein Disease Specialist
Dr. Smith is currently serving patients at the Vein Treatment Clinic in Clifton and Wayne, New Jersey.
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How To Get Rid Of Spider Veins: A Vein Doctor Answers
Spider veins commonly affect the legs, face, and arms and are considered cosmetic only. However, they can be a marker of venous insufficiency and require further evaluation. A board-certified vein specialist should be your source to find the cause and achieve your ultimate goal to get rid of spider veins.
What Are Spider Veins?
Spider veins are tiny, abnormal veins that appear at the surface of the skin. They are usually red or purple and take the appearance of webs. Most commonly, spider veins are visible on the legs, although they can also affect an individual’s hands, arms and face as well.
Spider veins are different from varicose veins which are larger, protuberant veins on the skin also related to abnormal circulation in the leg veins. Varicose veins are more likely to be associated with discomfort.
Why Do We Get Spider Veins?
Spider veins are caused by weakened or damaged valves within your leg veins resulting in chronic venous insufficiency. Blood returning to the heart from your legs depends on these valves to prevent backflow against gravity. The most common reasons for venous insufficiency are:
- The most significant reason is a hereditary predisposition
- Carrying extra weight increases the pressure on your leg veins
- Prolonged standing or sitting increases the pooling of blood in your legs
- Female hormones are associated with increased risks of spider veins
- During pregnancy, the increased circulation, weight, and hormonal factors are associated with increased risks of spider and varicose veins
Are Spider Veins Serious?
In the absence of symptoms, both spider veins and varicose veins can be a benign issue. In these instances, patients are not burdened by leg pain, restless legs, swelling or skin discoloration and prefer to get rid of spider veins for cosmetic reasons.
However, in the presence of symptoms, venous insufficiency should be evaluated by a vein specialist. Because chronic venous insufficiency is progressive, untreated symptoms can increase the risks of more serious issues, such as:
- Visible, painful varicose veins (phlebitis)
- Bleeding varicose veins
- Skin inflammation (stasis dermatitis)
- Skin ulcers (stage 5 and 6 of vein disease)
- Blood clots
- Pelvic Venous Congestion
How to Get Rid of Spider Veins?
This will depend heavily on your treatment goals, the evaluation of your vein doctor, and results from duplex ultrasound to assess for venous insufficiency. Patients are often characterized into one of three categories (overlap is common as patient may present with cosmetic concerns, but are also found to have symptoms of venous insufficiency):
- Cosmetic: Patients without underlying venous insufficiency or symptoms. The primary treatment goal is the elimination of spider and reticular veins using sclerotherapy or laser removal.
- Symptomatic Venous Insufficiency: Patients will benefit from the treatment of the underlying condition. In the absence of leg ulcerations or swelling, the primary treatment is exercise, weight loss (if needed), and compression grade 2 medical stockings. If conservative measures have not controlled symptoms, then additional medical treatments are considered.
- Advanced venous insufficiency: These patients present with further signs of vein disease (CEAP 4-6) which includes leg edema, stasis dermatitis, skin discoloration, or venous leg ulcerations. Bleeding varicose veins are also a sign of advanced vein disease and compression stockings alone are likely to be insufficient for resolution of symptoms.
How to Treat Venous Insufficiency and Spider Veins?
A pleasant surprise for many patients seeking varicose vein removal is that surgery is not needed. Modern vein treatments offer patients minimally-invasive solutions resulting in no downtime, no scars, and virtually no pain. Our favorite techniques are found at all the best vein clinics and are reviewed here:
- Radiofrequency ablation: Catheter-based technology that delivers radiofrequency generated heat to the blood vessel walls. The procedure is done with only small amounts of local anesthetic and can be completed in less than 30 minutes.
- VenaSeal: This is the latest innovation in vein treatment and is equally effective as RF ablation. VenaSeal is also a catheter-based technology. However, unlike ablation, the catheter is used to inject a medical adhesive that fuses the diseased vein closed. As such, it requires no tumescence for anesthesia.
- Sclerotherapy: A medicated solution is injected in either liquid or aerated form (foam sclerotherapy). This medication acts as a sclerosant and disrupts the walls of diseased veins causing them to collapse and eventually be absorbed.
- Ambulatory Phlebectomy: This requires the most skill and patience, but still is minimally invasive. Tiny incisions are made over large, protuberant veins so that they can be directly removed. Unlike stripping, these procedures are done within the office and patients do not require any downtime. The best part, any large visible varicose veins are immediately removed leading to dramatic skin improvements.
- Clarivein: Another catheter-based technique with some special uses in certain varicose vein anatomy. In this case, mechanical force and sclerosant are used to eliminate diseased veins.
Why Vein Specialist Centers?
The Vein Specialist Centers are a complete diagnostic and vein treatment center for both simple and complex spider vein treatment. Our training and experience is what sets us apart from other vein clinics in NJ where we offer the latest technologies in spider vein treatment. Our vein doctors recognitions include annual inclusion in NJ Top Doc, Castle Connolly Top Doctor, and Inside NJ Top Docs. Dr Brotman-O’Neill also serves as President-Elect of the New Jersey Vascular Surgical Society. Dr Simon Smith is board-certified in cardiovascular medicine and vascular imaging. Dr Faisal Siddiqi serves as the medical director at Princeton Vascular Center and completed his IVY-league training at Yale and New York-Presbyterian Hospital.
IVY TRAINED VEIN DOCTORS | TOP RATED VEIN CENTER| SPIDER AND VARICOSE VEIN TREATMENT CLINIC
What Are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins occur when the superficial leg veins become enlarged and overfilled with blood. The condition affects approximately 30 percent of all adults with a greater presence in women. Symptoms may include the following:
- Leg pain
- Heaviness
- Leg cramps
- Swelling
- Skin discoloration or leg ulcerations
In severe cases, ulcers form over diseased veins that can become infected or bleed. It is important to understand that varicose veins are not always visible and long term effects from untreated disease can still be serious. Because of this concern, varicose veins should be evaluated by a qualified vein specialist.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Blood is returned to the heart by a network of veins throughout the body. There are both superficial and deep veins within this network, however superficial veins are vulnerable to the chronic stress of being on our feet so much. Within all types of veins, blood is prevented from falling backwards with gravity due to muscle function and valves. When the valves in your veins become dysfunctional, the blood accumulates in the legs causing swelling, pain and heaviness. The potential risk factors for varicose veins include:
- Genetic predisposition
- Standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time
- Aging
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
Treatment is essential if you are experiencing symptoms such as leg pain, leg swelling, skin discoloration or restless legs. The treatment can be as simple as appropriate lifestyle changes and compression stockings. However, for some patients, conservative measures can be insufficient and additional treatments may be warranted. Vascular treatments including those for veins should only be performed by a board-certified vein specialist. Our article today reviews the latest innovations for vein treatment in NJ.
What Doctor Treats Varicose Veins?
A vein specialist is a doctor that specializes in treating varicose veins and the underlying condition, venous insufficiency. Ideally, your vein doctor in NJ should have completed formal training in endovenous procedures during his/her residency and fellowship training. Qualified vein specialists will possess a training background in vascular surgery, interventional radiology or interventional cardiology. A recognition of competency is achieved with board-certification in one of these specialties and should be readily available to discerning patients. Other specialties including pain management, internal medicine, or family medicine do not hold any formalized training in surgical or minimally-invasive endovascular procedures. Their board-certifications are well deserved, however not in the treatment of varicose veins.
Minimally Invasive Varicose Veins Treatments
Modern vein treatments are non-surgical and can be performed directly in the office using minimally-invasive techniques. Anesthesia is not required or recommended for these procedures. Our favorite techniques include:
- VenaSeal: Like most other vein treatments today, VenaSeal is also catheter-based technology. However, unlike ablation, the catheter is used to inject a medical adhesive that fuses the diseased vein closed. Over time, the vein is reabsorbed by the body.
- Radiofrequency ablation: Catheter-based technology that delivers radiofrequency generated heat to the blood vessel walls. The procedure is done with only small amounts of local anesthetic and can be completed in less than 30 minutes.
- Sclerotherapy: A medicated solution is injected in either liquid or aerated form (foam sclerotherapy). This medication acts as a sclerosant and disrupts the walls of diseased veins causing them to collapse and eventually be absorbed.
- Ambulatory Phlebectomy: This requires the most skill and patience, but still is minimally invasive. Tiny incisions are made over large, protuberant veins so that they can be directly removed. Unlike stripping, these procedures are done within the office and patients do not require any downtime. The best part, any large visible varicose veins are immediately removed leading to dramatic skin improvements.
- Clarivein: Another catheter-based technique with some special uses in certain varicose vein anatomy. In this case, mechanical force and sclerosant are used to eliminate diseased veins.
Why Princeton Vascular Center?
Our Vascular Center is a state-of-the art diagnostic and treatment center for spider and varicose veins. At our vein clinics in NJ, our physicians are all board-certified in the management of vascular disease. Our lead clinical physician is Dr Alissa Brotman-O’Neill who has been consistently named to Top Doc in SJ Magazine, NJ Top Doctors, Talk of the Town, and Compassionate Doctor on Vitals. As President-elect for the New Jersey Vascular Surgical Society, she is committed to remaining up to date on all the latest research and technologies in the treatment of vein disease. For more information, please schedule your spider vein and varicose vein consultation today at www.veinspecialistcenters.com.
IVY TRAINED VEIN DOCTORS | TOP RATED VEIN CENTER| SPIDER AND VARICOSE VEIN TREATMENT CLINIC
There are numerous vein clinics in New Jersey and fortunately, there is a great deal of expertise that can be found with the right guidance. Choosing a qualified vein doctor is absolutely necessary when it comes to getting results and avoiding potential pitfalls in treatment. We cannot emphasize enough the importance of knowing your vein doctor and his/her background in vascular medicine. While surgical treatments are no longer necessary for varicose veins, a board-certified physician with formal education in vascular surgery, interventional cardiology or interventional radiology is still essential to perform safe and effective minimally-invasive vein treatments.
This article is written by our expert vascular surgeon, Dr Brotman-O’Neill and explains the attention to detail and resources available at the best vein clinics. Her insights will help your search in finding the best vein center wherever you might be. Dr Brotman is the lead clinical physician at our vein clinics in NJ and is a board-certified vascular surgeon with years of experience in vein disease management.
What Causes Leg Pain From Spider Veins?
First and foremost, leg pain is not a common occurrence in individuals with spider veins. However, that does not mean a more serious condition is not present. Instead, an astute clinician is also mindful of other common issues associated with spider veins that should suggest further workup. Leg heaviness, leg swelling, restless legs are common markers of vein disease. Some more insidious symptoms can include pelvic pain, neuropathy, and skin discoloration. The discomfort is secondary to the blood that pools in the legs due to insufficient blood return. The pooled blood leads to inflammation and discomfort around the skin, nerves and muscle. Interestingly, symptoms of venous insufficiency can be noted even in the absence of visible varicose or spider veins.
How Do You Diagnose Spider Veins?
Proper evaluation of vein disease that underlies spider veins requires the expertise of a vein specialist. Unlike medical spa clinics or dermatologists, outstanding vein clinics are recognized as centers of excellence for the diagnosis and treatment of spider and varicose veins.
The most important tool for this diagnosis is a complete duplex venous ultrasound to evaluate the anatomy, flow, and size of your leg veins. A duplex ultrasound should be performed by a certified vascular tech and interpreted by vascular imaging experts.
What Is The Best Treatment For Varicose Veins?
This will depend on your goals for treatment and findings on the medical evaluation. Most presentations of varicose and spider veins are classified into 3 categories:
- Cosmetic: Patients without underlying venous insufficiency or symptoms. The primary treatment goal is the elimination of spider and reticular veins using sclerotherapy or laser removal.
- Symptomatic Venous Insufficiency: Patients will benefit from treatment for the underlying condition. In the absence of leg ulcerations or swelling, the primary treatment is exercise, weight loss (if needed), and compression grade 2 medical stockings. If conservative measures have not controlled symptoms, then medical treatments are evaluated
- Advanced venous insufficiency: These patients present with further signs of vein disease (CEAP 4-6) which includes leg edema, stasis dermatitis, skin discoloration, or venous leg ulcerations. Bleeding varicose veins are also a sign of advanced vein disease and compression stockings alone are likely to be insufficient for resolution of symptoms.
The Princeton Vascular Center is accustomed to treating all presentations of vein disease and is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to make the right diagnosis and treatment recommendation. Our vein clinics are overseen by board-certified vascular experts formally trained in endovascular medicine. Additionally, our ultrasounds are performed by certified techs and only interpreted by in-house registered vascular physicians (RPVI credentials). This guarantees the highest quality of vein care.
What Are Recommended Treatments For Vein Disease?
The most surprising fact to many patients needing varicose vein treatment is that surgery is not needed. Modern vein treatment centers offer patients only minimally-invasive solutions resulting in no downtime, no scars, and virtually no pain. Our favorite techniques are reviewed here:
- Radiofrequency ablation: Catheter-based technology that delivers radiofrequency generated heat to the blood vessel walls. The procedure is done with only small amounts of local anesthetic and can be completed in less than 30 minutes.
- VenaSeal: This is the latest innovation in vein treatment and is equally effective as RF ablation. VenaSeal is also a catheter-based technology. However, unlike ablation, the catheter is used to inject a medical adhesive that fuses the diseased vein closed. As such, it requires no tumescence for anesthesia.
- Sclerotherapy: A medicated solution is injected in either liquid or aerated form (foam sclerotherapy). This medication acts as a sclerosant and disrupts the walls of diseased veins causing them to collapse and eventually be absorbed.
- Ambulatory Phlebectomy: This requires the most skill and patience, but still is minimally invasive. Tiny incisions are made over large, protuberant veins so that they can be directly removed. Unlike stripping, these procedures are done within the office and patients do not require any downtime. The best part, any large visible varicose veins are immediately removed leading to dramatic skin improvements.
- Clarivein: Another catheter-based technique with some special uses in certain varicose vein anatomy. In this case, mechanical force and sclerosant are used to eliminate diseased veins. Interesting fact, our very own Dr. Brotman was present for the first ClariVein® procedure on humans in the United States.
Why Princeton Vascular Center?
The Princeton Vascular Center is a comprehensive diagnostic and treatment center for both simple and complex vein disease. Patients from across the Central and South New Jersey region seek out our expert advice on the management of spider veins, as well as more advanced symptoms such as leg swelling and leg ulcerations. Our physicians and experience are what set us apart from other vein clinics in NJ where we offer the latest technologies in varicose vein treatment. Our recognitions include NJ Top Doc, Castle Connolly Top Doctor, and Inside NJ Top Docs. Dr Brotman-O’Neill also serves as President-Elect of the New Jersey Vascular Surgical Society. She is a true expert in the field of vascular medicine and proudly leads our vein clinics in New Jersey.
IVY TRAINED VEIN DOCTORS | TOP RATED VEIN CENTER| SPIDER AND VARICOSE VEIN TREATMENT CLINIC
Who Gets Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are a common concern and affects nearly 1 out every 4 individuals in the US. The presentations can be asymptomatic and cosmetic, however, that is far less likely than patients who suffer from leg heaviness, swelling, skin discoloration and/or leg pain. Untreated veins can also be an increased risk for DVT (deep vein thrombosis), bleeding and infection which is a top priority to identify. Preventing long-term complications depends on early recognition and treatment measures.
Vein disease is commonly inherited and affects family members in high proportions. Other high-risk factors include prolonged standing or sitting, obesity, smoking and sedentary lifestyles. With vein disease, high pressures build inside leg veins due to dysfunctional valves. Our veins face a great deal of pressure even under normal circumstances such as standing or sitting. Unlike the deep veins that are supported by the muscles within our legs, the superficial veins that cause varicose veins will stretch and dilate from this pressure. Over time, these vein walls can become weakened and start to develop reflux or venous insufficiency.
Treatment is essential if you are experiencing symptoms such as leg pain, leg swelling, skin discoloration or restless legs. The treatment can be as simple as appropriate lifestyle changes and compression stockings. However for some patients, conservative measures can be insufficient and additional treatments may be warranted. Vascular treatments including those for veins should only be performed by a board-certified vein specialist. Our article today reviews the latest innovations for vein treatment in Mt Laurel NJ.
What Doctor Treats Varicose Veins?
A vein specialist is a doctor that specializes in treating varicose veins and the underlying condition, venous insufficiency. Ideally, your vein doctor in Mt Laurel should have completed formal training in endovenous procedures during his/her residency and fellowship training. Qualified vein specialists will possess a training background in vascular surgery, interventional radiology or interventional cardiology. A recognition of competency is achieved with board-certification in one of these specialties and should be readily available to discerning patients. Other specialties including pain management, internal medicine, or family medicine do not hold any formalized training in surgical or minimally-invasive endovascular procedures. Their board-certifications are well deserved, however not in the treatment of varicose veins.
Minimally Invasive Varicose Veins Treatments
The most surprising fact to many patients seeking varicose vein removal is that surgery is not needed. Many patients recall stories about their parents undergoing extensive vein stripping procedures with painful and extended recovery periods. Those days are long gone. Instead, today’s procedures are minimally-invasive and suited for all types of vein conditions.
These minimally invasive treatments for varicose veins include:
- VenaSeal: Like most other vein treatments today, VenaSeal is also catheter-based technology. However, unlike ablation, the catheter is used to inject a medical adhesive that fuses the diseased vein closed. Over time, the vein is reabsorbed by the body.
- Radiofrequency ablation: Catheter-based technology that delivers radiofrequency generated heat to the blood vessel walls. The procedure is done with only small amounts of local anesthetic and can be completed in less than 30 minutes.
- Sclerotherapy: A medicated solution is injected in either liquid or aerated form (foam sclerotherapy). This medication acts as a sclerosant and disrupts the walls of diseased veins causing them to collapse and eventually be absorbed.
- Ambulatory Phlebectomy: This requires the most skill and patience, but still is minimally invasive. Tiny incisions are made over large, protuberant veins so that they can be directly removed. Unlike stripping, these procedures are done within the office and patients do not require any downtime. The best part, any large visible varicose veins are immediately removed leading to dramatic skin improvements.
- Clarivein: Another catheter-based technique with some special uses in certain varicose vein anatomy. In this case, mechanical force and sclerosant are used to eliminate diseased veins.
Why Mt Laurel Vein Center?
Our Mt Laurel Vascular Center is a state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment center for spider and varicose veins. At our vein clinic in Mt Laurel NJ, you can rest assured that you will be in the care of a board-certified vascular specialist. Dr. Alissa Brotman-O’Neill has been consistently named to Top Doc in SJ Magazine, NJ Top Doctors, Talk of the Town, and Compassionate Doctor on Vitals. As President-elect for the New Jersey Vascular Surgical Society, she is committed to remaining up to date on all the latest research and technologies in the treatment of vein disease. For more information, please schedule your spider vein and varicose vein consultation today.
IVY TRAINED VEIN DOCTORS | TOP RATED VEIN CENTER| SPIDER AND VARICOSE VEIN TREATMENT CLINIC
These days, a vein doctor can just about be anyone with an MD or DO degree. Let that sink in for a moment. Because there is no formalized training program for vein disease, physicians with little vascular are performing vein procedures based on weekend courses. As such, a vein doctor is not what you necessarily would always consider as someone with years of dedicated practice or training. Obviously, there should be concern about the experience of some physicians to perform these endovascular procedures that can be associated with serious complications. We need to objectively evaluate each vein clinic for how their doctors are credentialed and what training experience they have. For the most part, this requires doing your own research before deciding on who is the best vein doctor for your care.
The type of physician managing varicose vein and spider vein disease can be divided into 3 categories:
- Vascular Surgeon
- Vein Specialist
- Phlebologist
Vascular Surgeons:
Vascular surgeons possess formalized training backgrounds in the management of vascular disease, both arterial and venous. Vascular surgeons must complete 5 years of general surgery training followed by 2 years in sub-specialty training for vascular medicine. In doing so, vascular surgeons undergo rigorous training in the diagnosis and management of surgical disease including endovascular, minimally invasive techniques. Cardiology and interventional radiology fellowships often work in collaboration with vascular surgery programs to provide in-depth training for trainees. With the completion of the training program, vascular surgery fellows will be tested for ABMS (American Board of Medical Specialties) board-certification to demonstrate their competency in the management of venous and arterial disease. This includes recognition as a board-certified expert to diagnose and treat varicose vein disease.
Advantages of Vascular Surgeon:
- Board-certified vascular specialists with completion of intensive residency and fellowship training for vascular medicine
- Best-suited to manage both simple and complex vein disease due to breadth of training
- Can provide complete care for both pre and post-procedure management
- Maintain hospital privileges for vascular medicine (Hospital accreditation for vascular medicine is based on board-certifications in ABMS-only recognized specialties)
Need to Consider:
- Every training program has different exposures to endovascular treatments. Varicose vein disease is now managed with minimally-invasive techniques rather than vascular surgery. Be certain that your vascular surgeon treats vein disease with modern, non-surgical techniques when appropriate
Phlebologists:
Phlebologists have varied backgrounds including general surgery, internal medicine, pain management, cardiologists and even vascular surgery. The American Board of Phlebology was only established in 2007 with the goal of setting standards of vein practice but is not recognized by the American Board of Specialities due to the lack of a formal training program associated with its board certification. Phlebologists with this certification do not need to complete any formalized training programs in vascular medicine but can obtain “board-certification” simply by passing a written test. Unfortunately, this is not enough to demonstrate competency with procedures that is gained only from formal vascular training in vascular surgery, cardiology or interventional radiology. Other residency programs including internal medicine, pain management, and family medicine simply do not provide this level of training as it is outside the scope of their practice. As such, board certification in phlebology or ABVLM (American Board of Vascular and Lymphatic Medicine) does not imply the completion of formal training in vascular medicine. Phlebologists without training in either vascular surgery, cardiology or interventional radiology should not be automatically assumed as vascular specialists.
Advantages of Phlebologists
- A limited number of physicians who have additionally completed formalized training programs in either vascular surgery, interventional radiology or invasive cardiology.
- The written test is rigorous and does test the physician on knowledge (not skill).
Need to Consider
- Phlebologists should be examined for backgrounds in ABMS recognized specialties such as interventional cardiology or vascular surgery
- A written examination is the only requirement for obtaining ABVLM certification
- Phlebologists with incomplete training are not required to be experts in vascular management
Vein Specialist:
A vein specialist is used by many practicing vein doctors with varied backgrounds similar to phlebologists. Again, it should be emphasized that vein specialists should have ABMS recognized board-certification in one of three specialties: Invasive cardiology, vascular surgery or interventional radiology to demonstrate the highest level of competency in vascular disease management. ABVLM board-certification or alternatively board certification in non-vascular specialties such as internal medicine, family medicine or dermatology do not include supervised training during residency/fellowship for endovascular procedures or its potential complications. And while modern varicose vein treatment no longer requires surgery, it does not imply that a vascular specialist is not recommended.
Advantages of Vein Specialists
- Vein Specialists are ideally ABMS board-certified in either vascular surgery, invasive cardiology or interventional radiology
- Interventional specialties possess unique skills for minimally-invasive techniques learned during rigorous training programs
- Maintain hospital privileges for vascular procedures (Hospital accreditation for vascular medicine is based on board-certifications in ABMS-only recognized specialties)
Who Is The Best Vein Doctor By Specialty?
If you have varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency, the best vein doctor to see is an ABMS board-certified specialist with a focus on varicose vein disease. The physician you select should have specialty-specific training in vascular disease.
It’s true that not all vein doctors are vascular surgeons, however considering that vascular disease management requires a significant amount of experience and skill, we recommend you consult only with formally trained vein doctors with board certification in either vascular surgery, interventional radiology or interventional cardiology.
What Are Important Considerations At A Top Vein Clinic in Edison:
- Board-certified vein doctors with formal training in endovascular procedures
- On-staff vascular imaging doctors with expertise in ultrasound. These doctors have certification with RPVI (registered physician in vascular interpretation)
- On-staff certified ultrasound technicians. This guarantees your diagnostic studies are following a standardized protocol and performed by knowledgeable technicians. These experts are more expensive to staff but demonstrate a clinic’s commitment to the highest level of care.
- Treatment options should not be limited. Vein disease is not a one-size fits all approach and patients are best served by a team of vein specialists that can provide a full service of vein treatments. This includes endovascular techniques such as RF ablation and Venaseal, but also microphlebectomies for larger, more difficult varicose veins not suitable for sclerotherapy
- Surgical stripping is no longer a necessary treatment saving patients from more complex, painful procedures
- Vein doctors should take the time to learn about your medical history, physical examination, and treatment goals. Our vein doctors are given ample time for each consult, follow-up, and procedure to make sure your needs are met. Please be sure to take advantage of the time.
Why Edison Vein Center?
The Edison Vascular Center is a complete diagnostic and treatment center for both simple and complex vein disease. Our training and experience is what sets us apart from other vein clinics in Edison NJ where we offer the latest technologies in varicose vein treatment. Our proud recognitions include NJ Top Doc, Castle Connolly Top Doctor, and Inside NJ Top Docs. Dr Brotman-O’Neill also serves as President-Elect of the New Jersey Vascular Surgical Society.