Varicose Veins in Calf Area? (photo)

Question

I have a few varicose veins on inside calf area of right leg. Should I be looking specifically for vascular surgeons to effectively treat this? What treatment would be most effective? What treatment should I definitely stay away from?

Sabrina Fabi, MD · Answer

You should see a dermatologic surgeon or vascular surgeon who specializes in endovenous vascular closure, which essentially uses a small laser fiber to close off the great saphenous vein. They will need to first ultrasound your leg to confirm reflux and then provide you with a plan.  I personally would avoid stripping.  Good luck.

Mitchel Goldman, MD · Answer

The treatment of leg veins should always be administered by a board certified dermatologist with a specific knowledge in the treatment of varicose veins. As a board certified dermatologist. Diplomat of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, and pioneer of sclerotherapy, I would recommend seeking the services of an expert. Depending on the size of the veins on your leg, effective treatments could be either sclerotherapy injections or a minimally invasive phlebectomy, in which the vein/veins will be surgically removed. First and foremost, I provide my patients with an ultrasound to determine the best course of action for them.

Sam Naficy, MD, FACS · Answer

I would recommend that you see a vascular surgeon for an evaluation and possible treatment.  You may need to first get an ultrasound of your leg prior to any treatment.

John Landi, MD · Answer

Your picture shows varicose veins.  These veins are usually a result of leaking valves in the saphenous system.  Think of your veins like a tree with the saphenous vein being the trunk and the varicose veins the branches. If the problem is in the trunk of the tree(saphenous vein valves), then treating the branches(varicose veins) will not solve the problem and only result in recurrence of the varicose veins. What you require is a venous reflux ultrasound which will evaluate the saphenous vein valves and both make the diagnosis and determine treatment.  You should see either a vein specialist(Diplomate of the Am. Board of Phlebology) or a vascular surgeon with interest in vein problems.

Marilyn Pelias, MD · Answer

A cosmetic surgeon, vascular surgeon or dermatologist would all be appropriate to handle your problem as long as their training and experience was plentiful.  If this vein is isolated, I wouldn't require an ultrasound of the veins.  If the varsities extended above the knees, I would.  This vein could be treated with microphlebectomy or injection in the office.  I am not very satesfied with the laser for this size vein at the present.

Varicose Veins in Calf Area? (photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Varicose veins require closure of leaking valves.

Answer: Varicose veins require closure of leaking valves.

Answer: Varicose Vein Removal - Experience is key

Answer: Varicose Vein Removal - Experience is key

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Sclerotherapy

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Varicose Veins in Calf Area? (photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Varicose veins require closure of leaking valves.

Answer: Varicose veins require closure of leaking valves.

Answer: Varicose Vein Removal - Experience is key

Answer: Varicose Vein Removal - Experience is key

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Sclerotherapy

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.