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The number one question vein specialists at Metro Vein Centers hear is, “Does it hurt?” Unlike the old method of vein stripping, which required up to four weeks of recovery and caused significant bruising and pain, the modern treatments are minimally invasive. Vein disease is a progressive condition, meaning symptoms worsen over time. If left untreated, it can lead to more serious issues such as ulcers and blood clots. Fortunately, treatment is easy and covered by most insurance. Ahead, we asked the expert team at Metro Vein Centers to debunk some common myths.
What treatments are offered at Metro Vein Centers?
We offer a variety of minimally invasive vein treatments in our clinics, from radiofrequency ablation, Varithena injections, and laser vein removal to visual and ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy. Minimally invasive means there is no cutting or suturing involved; it’s all done using only needles. We treat both varicose veins and (cosmetic) spider veins, and each patient’s concerns are addressed with their individual, unique treatment plan – no two legs are the same, so we make sure to cater our plan of action to tackle your specific symptoms and treatment goals.
Describe the differences between spider and varicose veins.
Varicose veins are a medical concern and can impact circulation, mobility, quality of life, and more. With varicose veins, we see painful and uncomfortable symptoms like restless legs and cramping that can affect quality of sleep, fatigue and heaviness in the legs, visible swelling, itching or burning sensations, and – worst case scenario – ulcerations in the skin that can cause infections or bleeding. With spider veins, we typically see an aesthetic issue on the surface of the skin. These veins should not bother you – if you’re seeing spider veins but feeling restlessness, cramping, or swelling, there may be an underlying vein disease like varicose veins that are not always visible on the surface of the skin!
Are treatments painful?
Most vein treatments are minimally invasive and done in our office with local anesthesia i.e. lidocaine (think going to the dentist’s office). While you may experience some discomfort during treatment, it’s quick and minimal, and there is little to no downtime after the treatment. You’ll be able to drive home by yourself following most treatments and resume all your normal activities the same day.
How long is recovery?
Since all our treatments are minimally invasive, patients can walk out and drive home immediately after their treatment without a friend or family member accompanying them. For medical vein treatments, recovery time is minimal – most patients return to work the very same day. However, for best results we advise patients to: avoid vigorous exercises such as lifting more than 50 pounds for a few days following their treatment, wear compression socks for a week, and elevate their legs in the evening to aid blood circulation and recovery. For patients who receive cosmetic laser vein treatment or sclerotherapy, there is no downtime but we recommend limiting direct sun exposure for 2-3 weeks after treatment to get the best cosmetic results.
Is vein treatment covered by insurance? What are the costs?
Metro Vein Centers accepts over 200 insurance plans, and we prioritize working with both you and your plan to maximize your coverage. Most treatments for varicose veins are covered by insurance. In cases of cosmetic treatment, such as with spider veins, you will have out-of-pocket costs as cosmetic treatments are not considered medically necessary and therefore are not covered by insurance plans. Once you’ve had your initial consultation and your personalized treatment plan at our clinics, our insurance specialists will let you know what your plan will cover and provide you with payment options.
