Trying to Find the Best Vein Doctor Near You? Here’s How!

Now that you’ve decided to get your varicose veins treated, it’s time to find the right doctor.

Venous insufficiency, also known as vein disease, occurs when your veins have trouble sending blood back to the heart from the legs. The blood that pools in the veins causes varicose veins to form.

Even if you don’t see bulging purple and blue veins on your legs and feet, you may still experience other symptoms such as swelling, itching, cramping, or sores. If left untreated, varicose veins could lead to significant complications.

Fortunately, venous insufficiency is a very treatable condition. If you’re considering treatment for your vein disease, your next step is finding the best doctor and vein center near you. Today’s technology allows for quick, minimally invasive outpatient procedures to eliminate varicose and spider veins.

Phlebologist Vs. Vascular Surgeon

Begin your search by identifying a vein disease specialist in your area. A phlebologist and vascular surgeon are both qualified to treat varicose veins in the legs. Still, each goes through a different training and certification process. Which one is the right one for you?

A vascular surgeon completes the standard four years of medical school and needs to finish a five-to-seven year residency program in surgery followed by a two-year vascular surgery fellowship.

The American Board of Medical Specialties must accredit these programs. Once training is complete, the doctor then sits for a vascular surgery board exam. To be board-certified in vascular surgery, the doctor will need to have performed 250 major vascular reconstructions. Vascular surgeons are qualified to treat complex vein and artery disorders with this extensive training.

A phlebologist is also a licensed medical doctor. To become a phlebologist, the doctor passes a written test but does not undergo advanced surgical training. Therefore, a phlebologist's practice focuses on leg veins, performing essential treatments for varicose veins.

Phlebology is not considered a medical specialty by the American Board of Medical Specialties. However, phlebologists can be certified by a newer organization: the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine.

So, How Do I Choose The Right Doctor?

Choosing the right vein doctor is an important decision. To narrow down your choices, ask these questions as you research the vein center and meet with the doctor:

Does the center specialize in vein treatments?

A center may advertise itself as a vein treatment facility and may treat various medical disorders. You want a center specifically dedicated to treating vascular conditions to achieve your best results. You should also check if the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission has accredited the center.

Is the doctor qualified to treat vein disorders?

As discussed earlier, a vascular surgeon and a phlebologist are qualified to treat vein disorders in the legs.

But beyond a certification, you’ll also want an experienced physician. Ask the doctor how many vein treatments they have performed. You can also research if there have been any complaints filed against the doctor.

What procedures does the center offer?

A variety of modern techniques treat varicose veins today. A modern vein center will provide a full range of therapies and the latest technology to diagnose vein disease, such as duplex ultrasound.

Do others recommend the center?

Online reviews are one way to get a sense of the quality of care at a center. Keep in mind that online reviews tend to be either overly negative or positive, so consider this when deciding.

Friends and family are also good sources for recommendations. They will probably be more honest and balanced in their reviews.

How did the staff make you feel when you visited the center?

Online reviews and credentials on the walls are great, but meeting with the doctor and the staff face to face will be the deciding factor in your selection.

How did the staff make you feel when you visited? Did the center seem clean and well-run? Did the doctor take the time to answer your questions thoroughly? Did the staff appear committed to helping you through not only the procedure but also your after-care?

Will insurance pay for the treatment?

Insurance should help cover treatment but always check your carrier first on your policy’s coverage terms. The center’s staff will discuss with you any copayments or other expenses you may incur so you won’t get any surprise bills.

Visit the Vein Specialists at Center for Vein Restoration

Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) is led by experienced, board-certified vein physicians specializing in treating varicose veins and other vascular disorders. We offer the latest treatment modalities in a comfortable, accredited, in-office environment. We also work with most insurance providers, including Medicare and Medicaid.

Undergoing vein treatment doesn’t have to be daunting. Our compassionate staff will help you navigate the process each step of the way. Contact us for a consultation at a CVR location near you today!