What to Consider When Choosing a Doctor to Treat Your Varicose Veins?


Initially make sure you check the credentials of the doctor you plan to visit. Even though no diploma or other credential can guarantee good results in every case, you can improve your chances if your doctor has done extra training to study and qualify for an examination, has published medical articles in the field, has presented or taught at national medical meetings and has contributed to the field of Phlebology.

Certification by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic disease.

Is your doctor certified by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Disease?

Certification by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Disease first became possible in 2008. A physician who achieves this certification must demonstrate extensive training and experience in the field, as well as take a challenging examination covering all aspects of the care of patients with venous problems.

Membership in the American College of Phlebology

Is your doctor a member of the American College of Phlebology?

This organization is dedicated to the study, diagnosis, and treatment of vein disorders.

Fellowship in the American College of Phlebology

Has your doctor been designated a Fellow of the American College of Phlebology

The American College of Phlebology designates selected physicians as Fellows. Designation as a fellow, recognizes those physicians who have demonstrated leadership in the specialty by actively participating at the national level, teaching other physicians, and publishing scientific manuscripts.

Membership in the American Venous Forum

Is your doctor a member of the American Venous Forum?

Membership in this society indicates academic seriousness. Membership in this society reflects a strong commitment to this field of Medicine.

Treatment of Varicose Veins

Does your doctor examine your legs with a duplex ultrasound to precisely define the status of your venous system?

For Large Vein Problems

If you have varicose veins, be sure your doctor does a Duplex (color flow) ultrasound examination to determine the source of the problem. Do not undergo any procedure on large veins if an ultrasound is not done.  It’s best if the doctor and/or vascular technologist personally does your ultrasound test and explains what the test shows. Reliance on a report from a separate laboratory provides limited information and can misdirect treatment.

Most up-to-date treatments for large vein problems can be done under local anesthesia. Does your doctor offer this option?

For Small Vein Problems

If you have spider veins, does the doctor use magnification and look for the source of the veins with special lights?

If you can’t see the veins and if their source is not treated, the spider veins will soon return. External Lasers are seldom as effective as injections (sclerotherapy) for spider veins. External Lasers cannot destroy the source of the spider veins and is risky in relation to skin burns.

Who Does the Injections or the Laser Treatment of Spider Veins?

Insist on treatment by a physician, not by an assistant.