Frequently Asked Questions About Varicose Veins

A: Varicose veins are enlarged, abnormal veins that are most commonly found in the legs and feet. For some people, varicose veins are only a cosmetic concern, while many suffer aches, pain, discomfort and other symptoms.

A: Varicose veins are a common condition. Risk factors include age, gender, family history, pregnancy, obesity, and occupations that require a great deal of sitting or standing.

Q: What are spider veins?

A: Spider veins are a common, mild variation of varicose veins that are smaller and found closer to the skin’s surface. Spider veins may be red or blue and commonly occur on the legs, arms, face, and elsewhere.

Q: How do I know which treatment to choose?

A: All patients will have a careful and complete evaluation with Dr. Maffei prior to the development of a treatment plan. Using his expert knowledge and years of experience, Dr. Maffei will suggest the best treatment plan for your unique concerns.

A: Carriers will cover the laser venous ablation procedure only when medically necessary. Patients must demonstrate symptomatic venous reflux disease, have ultrasound evidence of saphenous vein reflux that meet certain criteria, and have satisfied trials of conservative management by support stockings and other health improvement efforts.

A: For patients who do not have health insurance, we do offer self-pay options.

Q: If I have symptoms of venous reflux disease, are there any other criteria that must be satisfied before I can get coverage?

A: Most carriers require a period (3-6 months) of conservative therapy (compression, elevation of legs, possibly weight loss) before providing coverage for the VenaCure EVLT procedure.

Q: What should I do if the claim is denied?

A: We are your advocate and we will contact the claims department and request an explanation. All insurance carriers and payers have an appeals process. If your insurance does not cover a procedure which we deem to be helpful we are committed to working with you in a cost-effective manner.

Q: What languages does your office speak?

A: Hablamos Español. In addition to speaking English, The Vein Clinic At Athens Dermatology Group has a Spanish speaker in office who is available to assist Spanish-speaking patients.

Q: What should I bring to my first appointment?

A: Please bring a valid form of identification (driver’s license, passport, state issued ID card, etc.) as well as your insurance card. If it is your first visit, we recommend you also bring your completed new patient forms in order to reduce your waiting time. The forms can be downloaded by clicking here.