Your trusted partner in vascular care.

The Vein Specialists offers the full spectrum of therapy for varicose and spider veins at our dedicated Varicose Vein Clinic. Our team of board-certified, fellowship-trained vascular specialists have been providing top-level vein care to the residents of western North Carolina since 2005. Our clinic is dedicated to helping you achieve optimal health and wellness, whether your needs are simple and cosmetic or complex and medically necessary. We provide personalized care, tailoring our treatments for each patient. Make an appointment today with our trusted and experienced team.

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A Specialized Clinic for Varicose & Spider Veins

Varicose and spider veins are not always simply cosmetic. They can be indicators of more serious medical conditions, particularly in the case of varicose veins. Varicose veins result from weak or damaged vein walls and valves. They appear as enlarged and twisting veins that are visible under the skin's surface and can cause significant pain and discomfort, bringing symptoms like burning, cramping, fatigue, heaviness in the legs, skin discoloration, and even open sores. Without treatment, varicose veins can increase your risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a potentially life-threatening condition in which a blood clot forms in a deep vein, typically in the leg. Several factors can increase the risk of developing varicose veins, including medical and hereditary history, hormonal changes, pregnancy, increasing age, obesity, immobility, and sun exposure.

Spider veins appear as thin red or blue jagged lines resembling spider webs or tree branches. They can cover large areas of the legs or even the face. Spider veins are generally a cosmetic issue; however, in certain cases, spider veins can cause significant bleeding and discomfort, and medical attention may be required.

Diagnosis

At our Varicose Vein Clinic, our experts use state-of-the-art ultrasound technology to assess the function of your veins. During a noninvasive procedure called vein mapping, we utilize high-frequency sound waves to generate a visual of the blood flow in your legs and accurately locate unhealthy veins for treatment. This information is used to accurately diagnose the underlying causes of varicose and spider veins and to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.

Varicose Vein & Spider Vein Treatments

Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT)
Endovenous laser treatment is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that uses laser energy to treat varicose veins. Under ultrasound guidance, one of our vascular specialists will insert a thin laser fiber into the affected vein, delivering targeted heat to close off the vein and reroute blood to healthier veins. No general anesthesia is required, allowing for a quicker and more comfortable recovery. After EVLT, more than 98% of patients report significant pain relief with lasting results, as well as improved appearance and leg function.

Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is the most common treatment for non-painful varicose and spider veins. This versatile and effective procedure is used for both medically necessary and cosmetic treatments. It involves injecting a solution into the affected veins, causing them to collapse and fade from view over time. There is minimal discomfort during the procedure, and no anesthetic is necessary. At our Varicose Vein Clinic, we offer personalized sclerotherapy treatment plans that address the unique needs of each patient, providing safe and effective solutions for both medically necessary and cosmetic vein issues.

You have questions. We have answers.

Below you'll find answers to some of the questions we are commonly asked by patients. Please contact us at (828) 670-8346 with any additional questions or concerns.

How do I prepare for EVLT?
The procedure takes about an hour and is usually covered by insurance. Our staff will help schedule appointments and obtain insurance approvals. Prior to EVLT, you must fill a prescription for compression stockings that are required after the procedure. You may also request mild sedation medication to help you relax during the procedure without putting you to sleep. We ask that you shower and wash your legs thoroughly the day of your appointment, but do not use lotion, cream, or powder. Bring loose fitting pants to wear after the procedure. You must have a driver to bring you home afterward.
What can I expect after EVLT?
Patients can resume normal activities right away, but heavy lifting and strenuous activity should be avoided for about a week. For the first three days post-procedure, compression stockings must be worn around the clock, then during the day for the following week. You may be given prescription pain medication, but you may also use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. Some patients may experience mild pain, swelling, or bruising for up to two weeks post-procedure. A follow-up visit will be scheduled 4 to 6 weeks post-procedure to monitor progress.
Is EVLT covered by insurance?
If vein disease is present, documentation will be sent to your insurance provider, and The Vein Specialists will request maximum coverage for your upcoming procedures. EVLT generally is covered by insurance, along with medical sclerotherapy, which oftentimes is performed as a follow-up to EVLT. If your ultrasound reveals no vein disease, you may still opt to move forward with cosmetic sclerotherapy to treat your spider veins, which is a self-pay treatment option.
How do I prepare for sclerotherapy?
Our staff will help schedule appointments and obtain insurance approvals. Prior to sclerotherapy, you must fill a prescription for compression stockings that are required after the procedure. You may also request mild sedation medication to help you relax during the procedure without putting you to sleep. We ask that you shower and wash your legs thoroughly the day of your appointment, but do not use lotion, cream, or powder. Bring loose fitting pants to wear after the procedure. You must have a driver to bring you home afterward.
What should I expect after sclerotherapy?
Patients can resume normal activities right away, but heavy lifting and strenuous activity should be avoided for 2 – 3 days. Compression stockings will be required for the first 24 hours, and then during the day for the next week. Some mild discomfort, bruising, or swelling in the treated area is common but typically resolves within a few days. Patients should avoid sun exposure and hot baths or saunas for several days post-treatment. It's important to follow all instructions to ensure optimal results and a smooth recovery. Most patients can expect to see gradual improvement in the appearance of treated veins over several weeks to months following treatment.
Is sclerotherapy covered by insurance?
If vein disease is present, documentation will be sent to your insurance provider, and The Vein Specialists will request maximum coverage for your upcoming procedures. Medical sclerotherapy generally is covered by insurance and often is performed as a follow-up to EVLT. If your ultrasound reveals no vein disease, you may still opt to move forward with cosmetic sclerotherapy to treat your spider veins, which is a self-pay treatment option.