Patient Resources & FAQ

Yes. Venous insufficiency is a progressive condition. Without treatment, varicose veins tend to enlarge and worsen over time. Symptoms like pain, swelling, and skin changes typically progress. In severe cases, venous stasis ulcers can develop — open wounds near the ankle that are very difficult to heal. Early treatment is strongly recommended.

Yes, though it's relatively uncommon. Superficial thrombophlebitis (clotting in a superficial varicose vein) causes redness, warmth, and tenderness along the vein. More seriously, untreated venous insufficiency can contribute to deep vein thrombosis (DVT). If you notice sudden pain, redness, or swelling in your leg, seek medical attention promptly.

No. While spider veins are primarily cosmetic, varicose veins are a medical condition associated with chronic venous insufficiency. Symptoms include leg pain, heaviness, swelling, and fatigue — all of which significantly impact quality of life. This is why varicose vein treatment is often covered by insurance.

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a condition where the veins in the legs cannot efficiently return blood back to the heart. This is caused by damaged or incompetent valves in the saphenous veins, leading to blood pooling, increased pressure, and the symptoms associated with varicose veins.

Most patients tolerate vein treatments very well. Procedures like RFA and ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy are performed under local anesthesia, so discomfort is minimal during the procedure. Post-procedure soreness is typically mild and resolves within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relief is usually sufficient.

Most patients return to normal light activities the same day as treatment. Walking is actually encouraged immediately after procedures to promote circulation. Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and prolonged standing are typically restricted for 48–72 hours. Most patients return to work the next day.

This varies by the individual. The initial ultrasound will be able to identify how many veins per leg need treatment. Dr. Smith will give you a personalized treatment plan and options during your consultation and answer all of your questions.

Yes. Compression stockings are an important part of the post-procedure recovery process. They help maintain pressure on the treated veins, reduce swelling, and promote healing. Dr. Smith will advise you on the duration — typically 1–2 weeks following most procedures. We can provide compression socks at our clinic.

You will receive specific instructions before your procedure. Generally: wear loose, comfortable clothing; do not apply lotion to your legs on the day of treatment; and bring your compression stockings if you have them.

Light walking is encouraged immediately following treatment. More vigorous exercise (running, cycling, weight training) should be avoided for 48–72 hours. After this period, you can gradually return to your normal exercise routine. Dr. Smith will provide specific guidance based on the procedure performed.

When deemed medically necessary, varicose vein treatment is covered by most major insurance plans. Medical necessity is generally established when you have symptoms (pain, swelling, heaviness, skin changes) and when conservative measures (compression stockings) have been tried. Dr. Smith's team will verify your specific benefits.

Spider vein treatment is typically considered cosmetic and is not covered by most insurance plans. However, if spider veins are causing symptoms (burning, itching, pain), partial coverage may be possible. We will review your policy and advise you before scheduling treatment.

Lone Star Vein Institute accepts most major insurance plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, Medicare, and Humana. Please contact our office or visit our Insurance page to confirm your specific plan is accepted.

Many insurance plans require prior authorization before approving vein procedures. This means your insurer reviews clinical documentation (your ultrasound results, symptoms, and treatment history) before agreeing to cover the procedure. Our team handles the prior authorization process on your behalf and will keep you informed throughout.

Your first visit includes a consultation with Dr. Smith, a review of your medical history and symptoms, and a physical examination of your legs. A venous duplex ultrasound is usually performed at this visit to map your veins and identify any areas of venous insufficiency. Dr. Smith will then discuss your treatment options.

Comfortable clothing is best. You will be asked to change into our procedural shorts for the ultrasound scan — this is so we don't get any ultrasound jelly on your clothing during the ultrasound.

Plan for approximately 60–90 minutes for your initial consultation and ultrasound evaluation. Follow-up treatment appointments are typically 30–60 minutes depending on the procedure.