We’re all familiar with setting New Year’s resolutions, but many of us know how hard it can be to follow through. Resolutions are well-intentioned but often vague. A different approach is setting a goal with defined steps. That way, if “motivation” falls short, you’ve got a plan to back you up. At Artemis Vein & Aesthetic Center, we want people to address their vein issues so that they can live more comfortably. Many people live for years with distressing symptoms like varicose veins, chronic pain, swelling, fatigue, tenderness and aching in their legs. Some may not realize what the underlying issue is, but others know and simply haven’t done anything about it. We want to help people set and accomplish the goal of treating vein issues this year. See some before and after pictures in our gallery.
Below, we provide timing strategies and a general overview of vein treatment so that you can make this goal your own.
One key aspect of vein treatment that you need to know about is the three-month period during which patients wear compression stockings each day. We ask patients to do this because compression stockings can often resolve symptoms of venous disease. Stockings won’t reverse the disease, but many patients feel enough improvement in their symptoms that they don’t need further intervention. At Artemis, we prioritize the simplest, least-invasive approaches to treatment. During your initial consultation, we offer a free vein screening. We’ll use ultrasound technology to identify whether the venous disease is present. We can then fit you for compression stockings, order them for you right in the office and have them shipped to your home.
The other reason for the compression stocking trial is that it’s required by many insurance companies as a prerequisite for authorizing treatment. So, planning for a trial is the first step to setting your vein treatment goal.
Really, the answer to this is “any time” that best fits your life and schedule. However, there are a couple of times during the year that vein treatment can be more convenient and economical.
The first is now, during the winter months. Many patients prefer to begin the three-month compression stocking trial when it’s cold. While not hot or uncomfortable, compression stockings do add a light layer of extra warmth under pants, which can be a welcome addition during our Colorado winters. Beginning treatment in the winter also means that a patient will likely complete treatment before warm-weather activities really ramp up, leaving the patient free to enjoy a painless spring and summer.
Another time that can be ideal for beginning the compression stocking trial is later in the year, from around late July through early September. The reason for this is that, by the time patients complete the trial in the final quarter of the year, many will have met their insurance deductible. This means that insurance may cover most or all of their vein treatment.
If a patient’s three-month compression stocking trial does not sufficiently relieve their symptoms, then it’s time to consider a treatment called endovenous laser ablation. That sounds pretty technical, but it’s straightforward, minimally invasive, and essentially painless. It’s an outpatient procedure that we handle right in our state-of-the-art clinic.
Here’s a brief overview of what this procedure looks like:
First, we use ultrasound to identify the compromised veins and anesthetize the area. A small IV is inserted into the vein and a tiny laser fiber is passed through the IV inside the vein. The laser ablates the vein as the doctor pulls out the fiber.
At Artemis, we use the CoolTouchTM laser, which is one of the best in the industry. This instrument creates less heat than other lasers, meaning patients experience less post-procedure discomfort and bruising and a much faster recovery time. In fact, after the procedure, most patients simply go about the rest of their day. There is no scarring, the chances of complications are minimal, and afterward, the patient typically experiences a significant reduction or complete elimination of symptoms and the appearance of varicose veins.
After treatment, we do ask that patients take it easy for a few days. Aftercare includes wearing compression stockings and avoiding strenuous exertion for one week. During this time, there may be mild bruising and slight discomfort, which can be alleviated with over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen. We ask patients to visit us one final time so that we can make sure all problems are resolved.
The whole process – initial consultation, three-month compression stocking trial, treatment, brief recovery, and final visit – takes around four months. The first step toward achieving your vein treatment goal is simply scheduling that first appointment for a free vein screening (and we can schedule months in advance). Now is a great time to start the treatment process because you’ll be ready for a more active spring and summer. However, if you want to wait until later in the year to take advantage of meeting your insurance deductible, that is also a great strategy. We are always happy to discuss options with you and answer any questions that you have. Give us a call any time at 303-955-8314 or use our contact form.
All of us at Artemis wish you and your family a happy and healthy New Year. We look forward to serving all of our patients in 2022.
Dr. David L. Pinsinski is the esteemed founder of Artemis Vein & Aesthetic Center, an expert in the field of vein care, and a distinguished board-certified physician in Internal Medicine. With a dedicated career focused on promoting health and well-being, Dr. Pinsinski has become a trusted name in the vein care community serving Westminster, Co area. His commitment to excellence and compassionate patient care is at the core of his practice. Dr. Pinsinski’s work at Artemis Vein & Aesthetic Center is a testament to his unwavering dedication to providing the highest standard of vein care, making positive impact on patients’ lives so that they can enjoy Colorado’s beautiful nature and outdoor lifestyle.
