Varicose Vein Treatment: Cosmetic or Medical?
Is the treatment of varicose veins a cosmetic cure or a medical procedure? This is a very common question. Most healthcare providers would agree that if a patient is having pain and is unable to perform his or her work due to varicose veins, then it is medically necessary. But all factors must be weighed when drawing a line between medical and “simply cosmetic,” not the least of which is restoring patients’ confidence and overall well-being. Even if a patient isn’t experiencing physical pain – but won’t swim in a pool or wear shorts to the beach because they’re ashamed of varicose veins – their quality of life is markedly diminished.
Additionally, it is common for venous disorders to be undiagnosed or undertreated. It’s important to remember that varicose veins are a symptom of early stage venous disease and if left untreated could lead to larger medical issues.
From the perspective of insurance companies the difference between “cosmetic” and “medical” may be whether or not a vein has a connection to the deep system; if it does and the connection is leaking, then they consider treatment medically necessary. That said, there are many vein procedures that are covered by insurance, so you should not assume that your vein treatment won’t be covered.
Aesthetic reasons, medical care
Knowing that people seek vein treatment for different reasons, including discomfort, pain, and aesthetic concern, it’s important to remember that treatments for spider veins or varicose veins, as minimally invasive as they may be, are still medical procedures – and should be performed by a trained physician. That’s why it’s important to go to a practitioner who is Board certified.
The American Board of Venous & Lymphatic Medicine (ABVLM), formerly the American Board of Phlebology, was established in 2007 to improve the standards of medical practitioners and the quality of patient care related to the treatment of venous disorders and all aspects of venous disease. The ABVLM also offers a Board Certification Exam, which ensures that physicians who specialize in phlebology (vein care) have met rigorous standards of education, experience and evaluation.
Vein therapies today are performed by a variety of providers; some may lack adequate training or oversight, and some treat cosmetic concerns without taking the overall health and venous health of the patient into account. Some businesses might consider vein care a “medi-spa service.” I would caution you to do your research before you buy. Always look closely at the facility that’s offering the treatment. Look at their website. Call and make a few inquiries. If you’re still apprehensive, ask if they have any before-and-after photos or patients who can offer testimonials.
You should trust your instincts. How the facility handles your questions is as important the answers they provide. Professionals know that this is part of the process and respect your right as a patient (and consumer) to be well-informed before you make a decision. If a provider seems evasive or defensive, then that should be a red flag. Take your time to learn about the practice and the procedures they offer.
Treatment is individual
If you do decide to pursue vein treatment, be clear about what you want. Do you want to wear shorts or skirts again? Do you want your legs to feel good even after standing on your feet all day? Or are you happy to control your venous reflux with compression therapy? Whatever your desired outcome, make sure you work with a doctor who will listen to you and help you achieve your goals. Again, look for someone who is Board certified.
Without a full understanding of both vein health and pathology, wrong treatment options can cause more damage to the venous system – and decrease your quality of life. When treated by a certified phlebologist committed to your overall health, you should receive the professional medical care you deserve.
Dr. Cindy Asbjornsen is the founder of the Vein Healthcare Center in South Portland, Maine. Certified by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine, she cares for all levels of venous disease, including spider veins, varicose veins and venous ulcers. She is the only vein specialist in Maine to be named a Fellow by the American College of Phlebology. You can contact Dr. Asbjornsen at 207-221-7799 or: info@veinhealthcare.com.
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