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Board-Certified Vein Specialist Joins Durham, NC Clinic: Meet Dr. Baquero

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by Ashley Baquero, MD, FACS, DABVLM

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Medically reviewed by Ashley Baquero, MD, FACS, FABVLM, on December, 26, 2025

At Center for Vein Restoration, exceptional vein care is built on experience, precision, and a deep respect for how vein disease affects a person’s daily life. That is why we are proud to welcome Dr. Ashley Baquero, a highly accomplished surgeon and board-certified vein specialist, to our Durham, North Carolina vein clinic.

With more than four decades of experience spanning transplant surgery, vascular surgery, and advanced vein care, Dr. Baquero brings a rare depth of clinical insight to every patient encounter. His career reflects a lifelong dedication to restoring health, preserving mobility, and helping patients reclaim comfort and confidence.

“Venous disease is not a cosmetic disease. It is a debilitating condition that affects people physically and emotionally. When treated properly, the change in a patient’s quality of life can be extraordinary.” – Dr. Ashley Baquero

📅 Schedule a consultation with Dr. Baquero in Durham, NC: BOOK ONLINE HERE
📞Prefer to speak with a Patient Services Representative? Call 240-249-8250

A Surgeon’s Perspective on Vein Disease

Dr. Baquero’s path to vein care is grounded in decades of complex surgical experience. After years of practicing general, vascular, and transplant surgery, including kidney and pancreas transplantation, he chose to focus exclusively on venous and lymphatic disease. What drew him to vein care was not only the science, but the impact:

“Vein disease develops slowly,” he explains. “People adapt to heaviness, restlessness, swelling, or leg fatigue and assume it is normal aging. Then we treat the underlying problem, and they come back saying their legs feel lighter, they are sleeping again, and their daily lives have changed.” 

Dr. Baquero frequently sees patients who have lived with symptoms for years after being told their vein issues were cosmetic. He considers patient education one of the most important parts of his role:

“Once patients understand what is happening inside their veins, everything changes. They realize they are not imagining their symptoms, and that there is a real, treatable cause.”

A Philosophy of Care Built on Time, Trust, and Understanding

Patient care has been Dr. Baquero’s passion since childhood. Growing up as the youngest of four brothers, two of whom were physicians, he knew early on that medicine would be his calling. Over the years, whether caring for critically ill transplant patients or those struggling with chronic vein disease, his philosophy has remained consistent.

His approach is:

  • Unhurried and thorough. He spends the time needed to answer questions and ensure patients fully understand their diagnosis and options.
  • Root-cause focused. Treatment plans are designed to address venous reflux and circulation problems, not just surface symptoms.
  • Respectful and reassuring. Many patients feel embarrassed or dismissed before seeking care. Dr. Baquero makes it a priority to create a space where concerns are taken seriously.

“My goal is to make patients feel better, physically and emotionally. That starts with listening.” – Dr. Ashley Baquero

Training and Credentials You Can Trust

Dr. Baquero earned his medical degree cum laude (with distinction) from the University Autonomous of Santo Domingo before completing advanced surgical training in the United States. His background includes:

  • Fellowship: Transplant Surgery, Medical College of Virginia (VCU), Richmond
  • Residency: General Surgery, Albert Einstein Medical Center, Philadelphia
  • Internship: Presbyterian Medical Center, University of Pennsylvania
  • Board Certification:
    • American Board of Surgery (initial certification and multiple recertifications)
    • American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine
  • Fellow: American College of Surgeons

He has authored more than 25 scientific publications, contributed to academic teaching as a Clinical Assistant Professor of Surgery, and held leadership roles, including President of the Transplant Society of Latin America and the Caribbean.

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A Global Legacy of Service and Ethics

Dr. Baquero’s career extends far beyond the clinic. He performed the first kidney transplant in the Dominican Republic, his country of birth, and has maintained a charitable transplant foundation there since 1988. He also served as Medical Advisor to the President of the Dominican Republic and has been actively involved in global efforts to combat transplant tourism and organ trafficking.

These experiences shaped his belief that medicine is both a science and a responsibility.

“When you are trusted with a patient’s health, you are trusted with their quality of life. That is never something to take lightly.” – Dr. Ashley Baquero

Vein Conditions Treated by Dr. Baquero

Dr. Baquero evaluates and treats a wide spectrum of venous and lymphatic conditions, including:

  • Chronic venous insufficiency
  • Varicose and spider veins
  • Leg swelling and heaviness
  • Venous ulcers and advanced skin changes
  • Restless legs and nighttime discomfort

Many patients are surprised to learn that symptoms such as leg heaviness, aching, swelling, or restlessness at night are not simply part of aging. An evaluation can clarify the cause and open the door to meaningful relief.

Why Dr. Baquero Chose Center for Vein Restoration

Dr. Baquero joined CVR after years of collaboration and friendship with fellow CVR physician Dr. Lindy McHutchison. What ultimately brought him to CVR was a shared philosophy:

“CVR understands that vein disease is medical, not cosmetic. The organization is committed to education, evidence-based care, and giving patients the time and attention they deserve.”

At CVR, patients benefit from:

  • A physician-led network with 120+ clinics nationwide
  • Standardized, evidence-based treatment protocols
  • On-site diagnostic ultrasound
  • Coordinated communication with referring providers
  • Insurance guidance for medically necessary care

📍Find a Center for Vein Restoration near you HERE
📅 Or, schedule online HERE

What Patients and Referring Providers Can Expect

Patients and referring clinicians alike can expect clear communication, thoughtful evaluation, and detailed follow-up. Dr. Baquero emphasizes collaboration and education, ensuring everyone involved understands the diagnosis and plan.

“Vein disease is debilitating, but it is very treatable. With proper evaluation and modern techniques, patients can regain comfort, mobility, and confidence.” – Dr. Ashley Baquero

Now Seeing Patients in Durham, North Carolina

We are honored to welcome Dr. Ashley Baquero to the Durham community. His depth of experience, calm bedside manner, and unwavering belief that vein disease deserves serious attention make him a valuable addition to Center for Vein Restoration.

If you are living with leg pain, swelling, heaviness, or visible veins, you do not have to wait for symptoms to worsen!

👉 Schedule your consultation in Durham, North Carolina, HERE.
📍 Not near Durham? Find a CVR clinic near you HERE
📅Schedule at any of our 120+ locations nationwide HERE
📞 Need more information? Call Center for Vein Restoration at 240-249-8250

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