What Is Venous Insufficiency?
Venous insufficiency is a condition in which the valves inside the leg veins become weak or damaged, allowing blood to flow backward and pool instead of returning efficiently to the heart. This leads to increased pressure in the veins and causes varicose veins—the twisted, bulging veins you often see on the legs.
Venous insufficiency can cause:
- Aching or heaviness in the legs
- Leg swelling, especially by the end of the day
- Fatigue, throbbing, or restlessness
- Skin changes or ulcers in advanced cases
At Vascular Clinic, we help patients understand that venous disease is not just cosmetic. It’s a real medical condition that can affect your quality of life—and it’s treatable with safe, effective outpatient solutions.
Why Do Varicose Veins Form?
We explain veins like “one-way streets”—healthy veins carry blood upward, aided by valves. When those valves become leaky, blood flows in the wrong direction, builds up pressure, and stretches the veins, leading to varicosities.
Venous insufficiency often runs in families and may be worsened by:
- Prolonged standing or sitting
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Hormonal changes or aging
- Invasive angiography (in select cases) to visualize and treat in one setting
The good news is that modern treatments can relieve symptoms and improve appearance—without surgical stripping or extended downtime.
Evaluation and Conservative Management
We begin with a comprehensive vein ultrasound to map your vein anatomy, assess valve function, and locate reflux (backflow). If the condition is mild, we start with:
Medication optimization:
- Compression stockings
- Leg elevation and light exercise
- Weight management and hydration
If symptoms persist or cosmetic concerns remain, we offer advanced, minimally invasive in-office treatments tailored to your anatomy and goals.
Treatment Options at Vascular Clinic
All procedures are performed in our comfortable office or outpatient setting with local anesthesia and minimal downtime.
Endovenous Ablation (Radiofrequency)
- A thin catheter is inserted into the diseased vein through a small needle stick
- Heat energy seals the vein shut from the inside
- Blood reroutes naturally to healthy veins
- Performed in 30 mins; you walk immediately afterward
- Excellent success rate for treating great or small saphenous veins
Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy
- A sclerosant solution is injected into smaller varicose or spider veins
- Causes the vein to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body
- Virtually painless—no anesthesia needed
- Takes about 30 minutes per session
Microphlebectomy
- Small pinhole incisions are made to physically remove larger varicose veins
- Done under local anesthesia, typically combined with ablation
- Incisions are so small they often don’t require stitches
- Excellent for cosmetic improvement and symptom relief
What to Expect
Before Treatment:
- Thorough ultrasound mapping
- Personalized treatment plan based on vein anatomy and symptoms
- Pre-treatment photos (if cosmetic goals are a priority)
During the Procedure:
- Local anesthesia and light sedation
- No incisions (except tiny entry points for phlebectomy)
- Procedures take 30–60 minutes on average
After Treatment:
- Return home the same day
- Resume normal activities by the next day
- Wear compression stockings for 1–2 weeks to support healing
- Follow-up ultrasound and clinic visit to confirm success
Most patients feel immediate relief from heaviness and aching, and over time see smoother, clearer legs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these treatments painful?
No. We use local anesthesia and gentle techniques. Most patients feel only mild pressure or warmth during treatment.
Will my varicose veins come back?
We target the root cause—vein reflux. Treated veins do not return, but new ones can develop over time. We offer surveillance and retreatment if needed.
Is insurance coverage available?
Yes. If you have symptoms like pain, swelling, or skin changes, many insurance plans cover vein treatments. Cosmetic-only cases (e.g., spider veins) may not be covered.
How long is recovery?
You can walk immediately and return to most normal activities within 24 hours. Just avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a few days.
Why Choose Vascular Clinic?
- Board-Certified Vein Specialists
- Full In-House Diagnostic Ultrasound and Treatment Suite
- Minimally Invasive Options for Every Type of Venous Disease
- Cosmetic and Medical Focus—We Care About Both Function and Appearance
- Warm, Supportive Team Committed to Your Comfort and Confidence
We help you not only feel better—but look better. From diagnosis through follow-up, we’re by your side with clear communication, visual aids (like ultrasound images), and treatments that are both gentle and effective.
