Varicose Vein Treatment and Removal Near You
What Your Varicose Veins Are Trying to Tell You
Most people who develop varicose veins spend years noticing them before doing anything about them. It's easy to dismiss them as a cosmetic nuisance, something to cover up and move on from. But varicose veins are often a visible sign of a deeper circulatory issue, and for many patients, they come with real physical symptoms: persistent aching, heaviness, cramping, and swelling that builds throughout the day and eases only when the legs are elevated.
Varicose vein surgery is rarely the first recommendation. For most patients, minimally invasive in-office procedures address the same problem without the surgical approach, the general anesthesia, or the recovery time.
At Vista Veins, Dr. Kathleen Latouf evaluates each patient thoroughly before recommending anything. She reviews your symptoms, examines the affected veins, and in most cases, performs an ultrasound to identify the root cause before discussing next steps. Whether your varicose veins are primarily a cosmetic concern or they've been causing daily discomfort, you'll leave your consultation with a clear picture of what's going on and what can be done about it. New patients are seen in weeks.
If you're ready to address your varicose veins, request an appointment today.
Varicose Vein Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Varicose Veins
Varicose veins develop when the one-way valves inside the leg veins stop functioning correctly. Normally, these valves push blood upward toward the heart with each contraction. When they weaken or become damaged, blood flows backward and pools in the vein. The built-up pressure causes the vein wall to stretch and bulge beneath the skin. This underlying condition is called venous reflux, and it drives most cases of varicose veins in the legs. Factors that increase the likelihood of developing varicose veins include genetics, prolonged standing or sitting, pregnancy, age, and excess body weight.
Varicose Vein Symptoms to Watch For
Varicose veins are visible as raised, rope-like veins running along the back or inner side of the leg. For many patients, the symptoms go well beyond the appearance. Aching, heaviness, and cramping in the legs are common, particularly after long periods of standing or sitting. Swelling around the ankles and feet often accompanies the visible veins, and some patients notice skin irritation or discoloration near the affected area. Symptoms tend to worsen throughout the day and ease with elevation.
Best Treatments for Varicose Veins
Because most varicose veins are caused by underlying venous reflux, treating the source is the most effective long-term approach. At Vista Veins, treatment options include:
- Radiofrequency Ablation: Uses controlled heat to seal the damaged vein from the inside, rerouting blood to healthier vessels
- Varithena: A prescription microfoam treatment designed for varicose veins caused by great saphenous vein insufficiency
- Sclerotherapy : Particularly effective for smaller varicose veins and connected spider veins
The right approach depends on the size and location of the affected veins, the severity of the underlying reflux, and your health history.
Is Varicose Vein Treatment Right for You?
Most patients with varicose veins are good candidates for at least one of the minimally invasive options available at Vista Veins. The right starting point is a consultation and ultrasound evaluation to map the affected veins and confirm the underlying cause.
If you're not sure where to start, take our quiz to learn more about your symptoms and options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes varicose veins?
Varicose veins develop when the valves inside the leg veins fail to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward and pool under pressure. The built-up pressure causes the vein wall to stretch and become visible beneath the skin. Contributing factors include genetics, prolonged standing or sitting, pregnancy, hormonal changes, and age. The underlying condition driving most cases is called venous reflux.
What are the symptoms of varicose veins?
Varicose veins often cause more than a visible concern. Many patients experience aching, heaviness, or cramping in the legs, particularly after long periods of standing or sitting. Swelling around the ankles and feet is also common, as is skin irritation or discoloration near the affected vein. Symptoms tend to worsen throughout the day and ease when the legs are elevated.
What is the best treatment for varicose veins?
The best treatment for varicose veins depends on the size and location of the affected veins and the severity of any underlying reflux. Options include radiofrequency ablation for larger veins with confirmed reflux, Varithena for great saphenous vein insufficiency, and sclerotherapy for smaller varicose and spider veins. A consultation with an ultrasound evaluation is the most reliable way to determine which approach fits your situation.
How do I find a varicose vein specialist near me?
At Vista Veins, getting started is simple. You can request an appointment online or call our office, and we'll get you on the calendar quickly. We see new patients in weeks, not months, because timely vein care makes a real difference. We look forward to seeing you.