Peter J. Pappas

Professional Journey and Achievements

Dr. Peter J. Pappas is a board-certified General and Vascular Surgeon with over three decades of experience. A graduate of UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Dr. Pappas completed his General Surgery Residency at Cooper Hospital University Medical Center, followed by a Vascular Surgery Fellowship at UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School.

After completing his Vascular Surgery Fellowship, Dr. Pappas remained at UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School (NJMS) for 15 years. During his tenure, he rose to the rank of full Professor in the Department of Surgery and Chief of the Division of Vascular Surgery. He also served as the Medical Director of the Non-invasive Vascular Laboratory and Program Director of both the Vascular and General Surgery Residency training programs.

In 2010, Dr. Pappas assumed the role of Chairman of the Department of Surgery at The Brooklyn Hospital Center in Fort Greene, Brooklyn, New York. His leadership and dedication have made significant contributions to the field of vascular and general surgery. Notably, he has served as President of The Vascular Society of New Jersey and The American Venous Forum Foundation, further solidifying his influence and impact in the medical community.

Academic and Research Contributions

Dr. Pappas is nationally recognized for his clinical research activities in venous disease, earning him a reputation as a leading venous and lymphatic medicine expert. His work has significantly advanced the field, with 95 peer-reviewed publications and 30 book chapters. He received a five-year NIH grant to investigate the Pathophysiology of Venous Ulceration. He was the first recipient of the JOBST Research Fellowship in Venous and Lymphatic Disease from the American Venous Forum Foundation.

As a distinguished reviewer for the Journal of Vascular Surgery, Dr. Pappas continues to contribute to the academic community.

Dr. Pappas’ Role at Center for Vein Restoration (CVR)

Leadership and Clinical Practice

Dr. Pappas is a vital contributor to the work of Center for Vein Restoration, providing personalized vein care compassionately and affordably. He serves as Regional Medical Director and is the attending physician at two CVR vein clinics in Morristown and Union, New Jersey. He also oversees four additional CVR vein centers in North Bergen, Hackensack, Woodland Park, and Kearny, New Jersey, ensuring the highest standards of patient care.

Training and Education

Dr. Pappas's commitment to training the next generation of specialists sets CVR apart as a leader in the field. As the Director of the Venous and Lymphatic Medicine Fellowship Program—the only fellowship granted by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine—Dr. Pappas leads the multi-state training program, which engages multiple fellows annually. This program is the first of its kind, offering a 12-month graduate medical education focused solely on training physicians in the diagnosis and management of patients suffering from chronic venous disorders.

Research and Innovation

Dr. Pappas is also the Director of CVR's Clinical Research Program. Under his leadership, the team publishes four to eight papers annually in peer-reviewed journals and presents findings at national meetings. This rigorous research program helps CVR set the standard for venous disease treatment and contributes to its reputation as a national thought leader.

Cutting-Edge Research Projects

Center for Vein Restoration's primary focus is on the superficial venous system, which constitutes 90% of its practice. For issues involving the deep venous system, we refer patients to our sister organization, the Center for Vascular Medicine, says Dr. Pappas.

In the realm of superficial venous disease, we utilize a variety of minimally invasive technologies. However, there is always room for improvement and innovation in these technologies. For instance, we are developing techniques to eliminate the need for multiple lidocaine injections, making procedures virtually painless. Such advancements represent the future of venous treatments.

The Center for Vein Restoration Difference

Holistic Approach to Patient Care

Dr. Pappas emphasizes his holistic approach, evaluating the entire patient rather than just problem leg veins. This comprehensive overview often reveals underlying conditions, such as pelvic venous disorders, which are frequently misdiagnosed in women. By addressing these issues, CVR provides thorough and effective care, bringing relief and validation to many patients.

Comprehensive and Affordable Vein Care at Center for Vein Restoration

When you visit Dr. Pappas at Center for Vein Restoration, you experience a streamlined and efficient process designed to provide comprehensive care in a single visit. He asks patients to allocate an hour and a half for their initial visit. During this time, the patient will undergo an ultrasound, which Dr. Pappas will personally review with the patient. He will then discuss your treatment options in detail and will receive informative booklets and pamphlets to help you make the best decision for your treatment goals. Vein procedures deemed medically necessary are typically covered by insurance.

CVR also offers cosmetic procedures, which, while typically not covered by insurance, are priced affordably—50 % to 70% less than most competitors. Dr. Pappas says the primary motivation for offering these procedures at such competitive rates is the significant positive impact they have on our patient's quality of life and self-esteem.

Commitment to Excellence

CVR's commitment to training, research, and clinical excellence distinguishes it from other vein treatment centers. Dr. Pappas and his team continuously analyze treatment outcomes, publish their findings, and share knowledge with the medical community to advance the field of venous medicine.