Going to Dr about my varicose veins

sunsett · August 20, 2006

I was wondering if any of you have had your veins fixed. I'm not talking spider veins I'm talking BIG HUGE UGLY vericose veins. This would not be considered cosmetic because of the severity of them.

Can anyone give me some tips on what type of surgery to do for this?

Should I weight another 30-40 pounds?

What about cirulation problems?

What about excess skin? I have some now but not a whole lot. Am I nuts to even be thinking about this now?

Koala · August 20, 2006

I haven't had it done, though I'd love to...ok, I wouldn't LOVE to do it. I'd just love to have them gone. A person I work with had one done. Honestly, he was bruised a really long time afterward. I haven't seen him this year to see how it looks. His was hurting him, so having it done made him feel much better.

Good luck to you. Please post to let us know how it went and what it was like, ok?

L8BloomR · August 21, 2006

I had the veins stripped on one leg about 8 years ago. I had the really huge, rope-type veins that ran the length of my leg. My doctor was afraid I would develop deep-vein clots so I had the surgery. I really don't remember it being bad at all! In fact, I really don't remember much about the recovery, so I think it wasn't very long OR painful. I think my leg just ached a bit. So go for it! I am so glad to have the "ropes" gone for good! Oh, and I weighed about 230 pounds when I had it done, so I don't think your weight has much to do with it. Good luck!

Karen

the best me · August 21, 2006

I want the scoop, too! I plan on doing this when I can afford it. I have a TON of spider veins and a few "small" varicose veins, but my pasty white legs are covered in them...just like my Grandma! How much?!!!! Where are you going, Dianne?

3loves · August 21, 2006

I have the spider veins and varicose veins too. Would love to have them taken care of some day so I'm looking forward to watching this thread for advice. Thanks for bringing up a great topic!

sunsett · August 22, 2006

I have a mess of rope-type veins. My PCP says I'm a real mess and it will be a lot of work for the surgeon.

Karen-Do you remember if it was same day surgery? Did you have to wear tights for a long time after?

Kathy-I'm going to the vein center near Pineville. I do plan on going to a surgeon that Dr V had also recommened, I just don't remember the name of the guy he said. So if you know of anyone locally pls let me know.

I think I have 1 spider.

I'll let you guys know what happens today. Right now they are hurting me, they must know I'm talking about them!

sunsett · August 22, 2006

OK I"m REALLY TICKED OFF! My PCP's office made the appointment. I called them this morning and they are not in my network so I had to cancel. I am being bounced around with the refferals I've gotten back to vein centers which my insurance company doesn't cover!

I did get the name of a few more vascular surgeons so I will continue to try to set something up with them.

L8BloomR · August 22, 2006

Dianne, that is such a bummer when you can't go to the doctor and get a physical problem resolved when you are ready! Can't your doctor refer you to a surgeon within your plan? It seems unfair that you have to do all the legwork. This is NOT elective surgery! As for your questions, I do not believe I spent more than 1 night in the hospital. I do remember having to wear tight hose for a few days, but the fact that I don't remember much else tells me it was really not anything traumatic and I never had any problems with it. I have a couple of slight scars where they made the incisions, but none of that horrible aching and heaviness I used to have with the veins. I think the surgery is worth whatever you have to do to get it. Keep complaining to your doctor to help you find a surgeon!

Good luck and let us know what happens, OK?

Karen