Medically reviewed by Laura Kelsey, MD, on October 21, 2024
At the heart of exceptional patient care is compassion, expertise, and a dedication to improving the well-being of others. Laura Kelsey, MD, a board-certified general surgeon and vein specialist at Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) vein clinic locations in Grand Rapids, MI, and Muskegon, MI, exemplifies these values through her unique journey in vein care and commitment to community wellness.
With a background rooted in a deep understanding of blood clotting disorders and early exposure to the pioneers of vein disease treatment, Dr. Kelsey brings extraordinary medical expertise to her patients and public service to her Michigan community.
We spoke with Dr. Kelsey about her background, interests, and what drives her passion for vein care and community service. She described her journey into the field of vein disease as beginning with early mentorship and hands-on experiences that shaped her personalized approach to patient care.
Dr. Kelsey also shared insights into how her exposure to thrombophilia research and vein disease pioneers during medical school influenced her career path and expressed her deep commitment to supporting wellness not only in her patients but also in her community through various philanthropic efforts.
Dr. Kelsey’s path to vein care was not a coincidence—it was a culmination of years of study, mentorship, and a genuine passion for helping patients with vein disorders. During her time in medical school, Dr. Kelsey was mentored by the late Dr. Houria Hassouna, a hematologist known for her groundbreaking work in clotting abnormalities, including the discovery of Factor V Leiden and proteins C and S. These discoveries would lay the foundation for Dr. Kelsey’s future focus on vein disease.
“I was lucky enough to be mentored by someone who truly understood thrombophilia (a blood disorder that makes the blood in your veins and arteries more likely to clot). My mentor wanted me to go into hematology, but I felt a strong calling towards surgery. That early exposure to vein disease through research and practical experience shaped my entire medical career.” – Dr. Laura Kelsey
During her medical training, Dr. Kelsey worked with prominent figures in vein care, including the founding members of the American Venous Forum. Her role in early research, where she meticulously counted valves in saphenous veins removed during surgery, gave her hands-on experience with venous anatomy. This work sparked a lifelong interest in the intricate mechanisms of vein disease and how surgical interventions could alleviate patients' suffering.
One aspect that sets Dr. Kelsey apart from many other vein specialists is her deep understanding of blood clotting disorders and their relationship to vein health. As a surgeon with extensive experience in thrombophilia, Dr. Kelsey approaches vein care with a comprehensive view. She doesn’t just treat varicose veins or perform sclerotherapy; she delves deeper, looking at the root causes of conditions like blood clots, pelvic congestion, and lymphedema.
“Rather than just focusing on cosmetic issues or performing surgery, I aim to solve the riddle of where a patient’s condition originates. Understanding blood clotting disorders and their connection to vein disease allows me to offer a full spectrum of care. I help patients not only with the treatment of varicose veins but also with conditions that could be life-threatening, like blood clots.” – Dr. Laura Kelsey
Her philosophy of care centers on individualized treatment plans. She listens intently to her patients, understanding that each one has unique needs and concerns:
“If you let patients talk, they’ll tell you exactly what they need. It’s my job to rise to that challenge and be the physician they require at that moment, whether they need surgery, counsel, or support.” – Dr. Laura Kelsey
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kelsey in Grand Rapids, CLICK HERE.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kelsey in Muskegon, CLICK HERE.
To schedule an appointment at any of CVR’s other 110+ vein clinic locations, call 240-965-3915 to speak to a Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online.
For Dr. Kelsey, wellness extends beyond the walls of her practice. She believes that health care is intrinsically linked to the overall wellness of the community, and she is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those around her.
Dr. Kelsey's commitment to community service has made a significant impact in Muskegon County, where over 75 percent of children live below the poverty line. She has co-chaired the capital campaign for Kids’ Food Basket, an initiative that raises funds to provide meals for children in need. “Wellness is so much bigger than just health care delivery,” Dr. Kelsey says. “I can’t be part of a community without recognizing its needs.”
In addition to her work with Kids’ Food Basket, Dr. Kelsey has also sponsored events for the Boys and Girls Club of Muskegon and helped fund scholarships through Michigan State University’s Empower MSU campaign. “I believe in giving back. It’s an important part of being a physician in a community,” she adds. Her role in these initiatives allows her to not only support the next generation of doctors but also to contribute to creating healthier futures for children in her community.
Dr. Kelsey’s dedication to her patients and community has not gone unnoticed. In 2023, she was honored with the prestigious President’s Award from Center for Vein Restoration. Additionally, Michigan State University’s College of Human Medicine recognized her with a nomination for the Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) medical honor society and featured her on their Women in Medicine platform, where she shared her journey of navigating a career in medicine while balancing family life.
Reflecting on these accomplishments, Dr. Kelsey humbly states, “It’s a privilege to do the work I do, both in medicine and the community. These awards represent a recognition of the collective efforts of everyone I work with, and I’m grateful to have the opportunity to serve.”
When asked what she would like her patients to know, Dr. Kelsey’s answer is simple yet profound:
“They give me so much more than I give them. Every time I’m entrusted with their care, I see it as a privilege. My goal is to listen and understand what they need and help them achieve wellness.” – Dr. Laura Kelsey
For referring physicians, Dr. Kelsey emphasizes her commitment to comprehensive, patient-centered care.
“I want them to know that we are here to provide competent, compassionate care and that if vein disease is not the primary issue, we’ll gladly help patients navigate other treatment options,” she says. “It’s about doing what’s best for the patient.” – Dr. Laura Kelsey
Dr. Kelsey’s journey in vein care is a testament to her unwavering dedication to improving the lives of her patients and her community. Whether treating complex vein conditions or championing local causes, she exemplifies the true spirit of a healer. Through her work, she continues to build healthier communities—one patient, one initiative, and one act of kindness at a time.
Dr. Kelsey’s expertise and passion for vein care could have taken her anywhere. Still, she chose to practice vein care at Center for Vein Restoration because of its unwavering commitment to excellence in patient care and its comprehensive approach to vein health.
At CVR, Dr. Kelsey is able to provide her patients with the latest advancements in vein treatment while also upholding her personal philosophy of treating each patient as a whole person. By practicing vein care at CVR, Dr. Kelsey ensures her patients receive the best care possible, supported by a team dedicated to advancing venous and lymphatic medicine and sharing her dedication to improving the lives of those suffering from vein disease.
CVR accepts many insurances, including Aetna, Amerigroup, Anthem, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Cigna, MultiPlan, Medicaid, Medicare, and more.
Call 240-965-3915 to speak to a Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR near you today.
About Vein Disease
Spider Veins
Varicose Veins
Vein Disease Treatments
Treating Spider Veins
Treating Varicose Veins
About Us
Patient Resources
Physician Resources