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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

At The Surgical Clinic (TSC) we know that the more you know the way things work, the less stress you will feel.

You will have time to ask questions when you have your appointment with the surgeon, but we have also collected a few common questions to help you learn more as you prepare for your procedure between appointments.

Preparing For Your Procedure

Additional Information

Please expand by selecting each question below, and reach out with any questions or concerns that you would like to discuss further as we will be glad to help you!

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GENERAL FAQS

The Surgical Clinic is one of Middle Tennessee’s most respected surgical practices. Patients across the Southeast and throughout the country trust us for our high standards, compassionate care, and innovative medical solutions

Board-certified surgeons have completed extensive training and passed rigorous exams in their specialty, verifying their expertise and commitment to high standards of patient care. At The Surgical Clinic, every surgeon is board-certified to ensure you receive expert care you can trust.

FACS stands for Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. When you see FACS after a surgeon’s name, it means they are board-certified and have undergone additional peer review to confirm their ethics, skills, and professional excellence. Many of our surgeons at The Surgical Clinic proudly hold this distinction.

Robotic surgery allows doctors to perform complex surgeries with the precision and control only robot-guided movements can provide. It’s a form of minimally invasive surgery that enhances the capabilities of the surgeon. The surgeon sits at a console where they control the instrumentation of the robot’s movements. Robotic surgery results in very small incisions due to better magnification and control of incisions. These surgeries result in fewer risks and even faster recovery times.

Less pain, quicker recovery, ability to perform more complex surgeries through smaller incisions, Less scarring, reduced risk of infection, less blood loss and transfusions, and greater precision

The robotic surgical system allows surgeons a wide range of procedural advantages. For instance, the da Vinci surgical system provides better visualization with 3D imaging and improved articulations of the instruments inside the patient’s body.

If you require a surgical procedure, our board-certified surgeons are here to provide expert care. For pre-operative evaluations, post-operative follow-ups, and ongoing care, an advanced practitioner offers thorough assessments, guidance, and support to ensure a smooth treatment experience.

FACOS stands for Fellow of the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons. This honor is awarded to board-certified osteopathic surgeons (DOs) who meet high standards of surgical skill, ethics, and leadership. At The Surgical Clinic, Dr. Marc Rosen, DO, FACOS, holds this title.

MPH stands for Master of Public Health. Surgeons who earn an MPH degree have advanced training in public health, epidemiology, and healthcare systems—providing a broader perspective on patient care and healthcare delivery.

MBA stands for Master of Business Administration. Surgeons with an MBA have additional education in business, leadership, and healthcare management, which helps them better navigate complex healthcare systems and improve patient services.

MMM stands for Master of Medical Management, a degree specifically for physicians who want to lead healthcare organizations effectively.
CPE stands for Certified Physician Executive, a certification recognizing physicians with expertise in healthcare leadership, strategy, and operational management.

BREAST SURGERY FAQS

Breast cancer is a prevalent and challenging disease, affecting approximately 200,000 people each year. While it can be a daunting diagnosis, it’s crucial to remember that there are multiple treatment options available. Among these options, surgery stands as the primary and often life-saving choice.

Your approach to surgery will depend on several factors, including the stage of your cancer, the “personality” of the cancer, and what you decide is best for your long-term peace of mind. At The Surgical Clinic, your physician and the entire surgical team are focused on supporting you with the most advanced approaches to Breast Cancer surgical techniques in the greater Nashville area.

It is important to note that the sooner the breast cancer surgery is performed, the better the chances of stopping the cancer from progressing. With that in mind, early detection and timely treatment are crucial to achieving a successful outcome. Waiting to undergo surgery can result in the cancer cells spreading to other parts of the body, making it more challenging to treat.

It’s natural to wonder how your life will change after breast surgery. You may be concerned about how you will feel physically and emotionally, as well as whether you will be able to resume your normal activities. The good news is that for most women, life after breast surgery is very similar to life before surgery. With the right treatment plan and support, you can continue to enjoy your favorite activities, work, and maintain your relationships.

Breast reconstruction enhances or restores the look, shape, and feel of the breasts after a mastectomy or breast cancer treatment surgery. Reconstructive surgery can happen the same day as a mastectomy or at a later date. Often, breast reconstruction helps women return to normalcy after breast cancer. Therefore, it can be an emotional and sensitive process that can feel overwhelming at times.

Once the breast cancer is removed, patients may opt to have breast implants to replace the lost breast tissue. Breast implants restore shape and volume to the chest, and there are several options of implants to choose from. The surgeon will place the implant either over or under your chest muscle and cover it with your original breast skin or use a skin graft.

Tissue-based breast reconstruction is often referred to as a “flap” reconstruction. This is when the surgeon uses tissue from another area of the patient to reconstruct the breast. The surgeon will take skin, fat, and muscle from your belly or buttocks, which resemble breast tissue, to reconstruct the breast. Combining tissue-based reconstruction and implants produces a more realistic result.

Recovery in the hospital from breast surgery typically lasts between about 2 - 8 hours. Following breast reconstruction surgery, patients will require plenty of rest, limited movement, and bandages that help minimize movement of the breast area. Pain medication will be used as needed. A special surgical bra may be required for several weeks once the bandages are removed.

A new breast surgery technique, known as the internal bra (or permanent bra), leaves the patient feeling supported (much like a push-up bra would) but without the straps and underwires.

Once you have met with a TSC surgeon and undergone the appropriate testing, you will need to begin preparing for your upcoming surgery. Preparing for surgery involves more than just marking the date on your calendar, it’s about understanding every step you need to take before the procedure to ensure you are ready both physically and mentally.

GENERAL SURGERY FAQS

A broad range of surgeries fall under the category of “general surgery.” Though, only a highly trained specialist should perform general surgery. Typically, surgical procedures on the gastrointestinal system, breasts, abdomen, soft tissue, alimentary tract (esophagus and connected organs), and endocrine system are all considered general surgery.

In a general surgery practice highly trained board-certified surgeons focus on the abdominal organs of the body. Some of the common issues are appendicitis, hernias, gallbladder, stomach and intestines. A general surgeon will have completed four years of medical school, earning the Medical Doctorate (MD) and then they will spend an additional five years in a surgical internship or residency program.

GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease, where acid refluxes into your esophagus. Symptoms like heartburn, a burning sensation, or a sour taste in your mouth can be signs of GERD.
Similar to acid reflux disease, GERD is a chronic condition caused by changes in the gastroesophageal valve (GEV). In a healthy patient, this valve between the esophagus and the stomach that forms a physical barrier preventing stomach fluids from backwashing, or “refluxing,” up into the esophagus – this is often referred to as acid reflux – gastroesophageal reflux (GER).

Heartburn is a term commonly used to describe symptoms. Most of the burning sensation is the epigastric, or upper abdomen area next to the heart. A lot of patients come in and present to the emergency room with symptoms similar to a heart attack. It goes by the name of heartburn, indigestion, reflux, and acid reflux. All of those describe the symptoms presented from the regurgitation of acid from the stomach to the esophagus.

Initially, symptoms may present once or twice after a certain event or after certain meals, sometimes we overindulge at Thanksgiving and all of that pressure forces more acid up. The reality is that all of us have reflux; it’s a normal physiological response. The difference is that normally once you get that reflux, there’s an inherent mechanism that flushes away (or neutralizes/clears away) that process. In the standing position, if you have reflux, acid would then go down because of gravity. The alkaline nature of your saliva as you swallow, it neutralizes some of that reflux. The normal valve mechanism that causes things to go in one direction sometimes doesn’t work well and that presents with a pathologic problem of acid reflux disease, heartburn, or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).

GERD can be linked to family history, though it’s often associated with anatomy or lifestyle factors.

Post-surgery, patients start on a clear liquid diet, gradually advancing. Our nutritionist provides guidance, and most return to normal activities within weeks.

The term general surgery refers to a specialty area of surgery that focuses on the abdominal organs. You would expect a general surgeon to operate on some more common abdominal complaints such as appendicitis, hernias, gallbladder, stomach and intestines.

Acid reflux surgery is most commonly performed laparoscopically. However, open surgery may be an option in some cases.

The most common side effect is discomfort or difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia. It is often temporary and a normal part of the healing process. For more information on side effects please visit www.linxforlife.com

Patients are encouraged to return to a normal diet as soon as tolerated or as directed by their physician.

Patients are generally able to return to non-strenuous activity within a couple of days.

Yes. LINX® patients may undergo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) up to either 0.7 – Tesla (0.7T) or 1.5 – Tesla (1.5T) depending on the LINX® model implanted. You should discuss the MRI scanning options with your physician prior to deciding on treatment with LINX®. LINX® patients can also undergo: CT scan, ultrasound, x-ray and PET scan.

PLASTIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY FAQS

Plastic surgeons are board-certified through the American Board of Plastic Surgery and are trained to specialize in reconstruction and aesthetic procedures. While cosmetic surgeons are certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery and focus on enhancing aesthetic appearance

Our board-certified surgeons offer body contouring, face procedures, breast augmentation, cosmetic lifts, and many other procedures to help you reach your goals. The most common plastic surgeries in Nashville are tummy tucks, facelifts, and nose jobs.

Yes, it is very common to combine plastic surgeries to achieve more aesthetic results, reduce long-term costs and anesthesia exposure, and minimize downtime. Some of the most commonly combined plastic surgeries include: Mommy Makeover, Tummy tuck and a Breast Enhancement, Facial rejuvenation, Facelift and Browlift, Body Enhancements, and Liposuction and a Tummy Tuck.

In all cases of liposuction fat transfer, a medicated fluid is injected into the area where the fat is to be removed. This fluid carries a numbing agent and also expands the tissues making removing fat cells easier. Once the area is numbed, your surgeon will make a series of incisions in your skin to enable a small tube-like suction device to reach the fat tissue.
The harvested fat cells will be examined, isolated and cleaned. The cells are then combined with stem cells before being injected back into your body. The same tubelike device will implant them into the new area.

PODIATRY FAQS

Podiatry, also known as chiropody, is a specialized branch of medicine focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of foot, ankle, and lower leg disorders.

Podiatrists are also known as DPMs (Doctors of Podiatric Medicine). Podiatrists handle almost everything below the knee, like the lower leg, foot, and ankle. They are able to diagnose and treat diseases, disorders, and injuries with specialized care. They also prescribe medications and orthotics, perform physical therapy services, and administer surgery when needed.

PROSTHETICS FAQS

The Surgical Clinic’s approach to prosthetics is unique and highly collaborative. The partnership between specialized vascular surgeons working with amputation surgery and the prosthetic fitting has created unique innovations in both surgery and prosthetics, ultimately enhancing patient mobility and quality of life.

Formerly known as The Surgical Clinic Prosthetic Institute, TSC Prosthetics is an active research facility and collaborates with the Biomedical Engineering Labs of Vanderbilt University to be able to provide leadership in the latest prosthetic solutions. Our work develops state-of-the-art options for both upper and lower body extremities. This research has resulted in patented running prosthesis designs and a patented vacuum socket technology for better fitting devices. The goal of the Prosthetics Institute is to work with you to identify solutions that allow you to function pain-free, while wearing your prosthesis all day long.

A slide board is a flat, rigid board made of wood or plastic. It bridges 2 surfaces, such as a bed and wheelchair. The board lets you scoot on your buttocks between surfaces without having to use your legs. A slide board transfer can be done on your own or with help, if needed.

SURGICAL ONCOLOGY FAQS

Surgical oncology is a subspecialty of general surgery that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of patients with cancer.

Cancer starts when cells in the body change and grow out of control. Cancer cells can form lumps of tissue called tumors. Cancer that starts in the cells of the prostate is called prostate cancer.

At our surgical cancer clinic, we go beyond standard cancer services, aiming to provide a holistic and patient-centric approach to your care. Each service is designed to contribute to a seamless and effective journey toward healing, ensuring you receive the highest standard of cancer care available.

Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery (HPB) is the surgical treatment of diseases in the liver (hepato), pancreas (pancreato), and gallbladder and bile ducts (biliary system). HPB surgery is one of the most complex general surgeries and requires a highly skilled general surgeon who specializes in liver/pancreatic/biliary diseases.

While some conditions are more common, like pancreatic tumors, others are relatively rare (gallbladder and bile duct cancers).

Cancerous and Benign Liver Tumors
While noncancerous (benign) liver tumors are fairly common, they do not typically spread into other areas of the body (metastasize). Unlike benign liver tumors, primary liver cancers can exists as well as tumors that metasasize from other sites of the body. These tumors form most commonly from colorectal cancer, or potentially from the gastrointestinal trac, known as a neuroendocrine tumor.

Gallbladder and Bile Duct Tumors
The biliary system consists of your gallbladder and bile ducts. These bile ducts connect your liver to your small intestine as well as your gallbladder. Tumors that form in your biliary system are rarely cancerous, but can be highly complex to treat if diagnosed as malignant.

VASCULAR SURGERY FAQS

Vascular surgery is a specialty surgery practice used to manage heart and blood flow problems. These issues include vascular infections and vascular diseases, which affect the vascular system, veins, arteries, and lymphatic circulation. Some conditions that vascular surgeons treat include Peripheral Artery Disease, Chronic Venous Insufficiency, Deep Vein Thrombosis, atherosclerosis, and aneurysms.

A Vascular Procedure Center (VPC) is Where we perform venous and vascular procedures for our patients across Tennessee. Using the latest minimally invasive surgical techniques, we offer patients hospital-level care in a convenient outpatient facility.

TCAR stands for transcarotid artery revascularization. This procedure is a minimally invasive option for carotid artery disease compared to traditional options like CEA (carotid endarterectomy). By taking a less invasive approach, we are able to help mitigate risks associated with traditional surgery.

Your care will be delivered by a medical professional with an RVT (Registered Vascular Technician) certification. The RVT certification, not required in many labs, is the standard at The Surgical Clinic’s labs and helps to assure you that your tests are being conducted by people specialized in these diagnostic procedures.

In a vascular surgery practice at The Surgical Clinic, board certified surgeons are focused on the way in which blood travels through the body. Because blood contains oxygen, the food for your body, and takes garbage out of your tissues to remove it, it is important that blood is traveling efficiently.

When selecting a vascular surgeon, it’s essential to consider their experience, credentials, and expertise in treating your specific condition. Look for board certification, specialization in vascular surgery, and a track record of successful outcomes.

Minimally invasive vascular procedures offer several advantages, including smaller incisions, reduced pain and scarring, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.

The recovery process varies depending on the type of procedure performed and the individual patient. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions for post-operative care and follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure a successful recovery.

While some risk factors for vascular disease are beyond your control, such as age and family history, you can reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, not smoking, and managing conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.

Our state-of-the-art vascular labs are accredited by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission and each of the RVT’s are registered through the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). The key to excellent vascular care is proper diagnosis along with treatment options. TSC’s ICAVL (Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Vascular Laboratories) accredited vascular laboratories offer vascular screening services to assure that you receive proper diagnosis and treatment of your vascular condition.

An ultrasound is created when high frequency sound waves are exposed to a body part to create a picture of the inside of the body, captured in real time. This reveals the structure and movement of the internal organs and lets doctors watch blood flowing through your vessels. The risk of exposure by using ultrasounds is very low since unlike an x-ray, there is no ionizing radiation.

This is a special technique that examines blood flowing through a vessel. Areas of your body where a Doppler might be used are major arteries (the vessels that carry blood away from the heart) and veins in the abdomen, arms, legs and neck. By watching the tissues at work, doctors can observe abnormalities, diagnose problems and develop treatment plans. Since the procedure is just tracking sound waves, there is no recovery time for you from this procedure.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm is an enlargement of the main artery in the abdomen.

Aneurysms can develop silently and can burst, causing bleeding that could lead to death. Many people with Aortic Aneurysms don’t even know they have one.

Peripheral Arterial Disease, also known as hardening of the arteries, reduces the blood flow to the legs due to blockages of the leg arteries.

Vascular surgery may be necessary to treat conditions such as blocked arteries (atherosclerosis), aneurysms, varicose veins, blood clots, and other vascular diseases.

Common conditions treated include peripheral artery disease (PAD), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), carotid artery disease, aortic aneurysms, and varicose veins.

Vascular procedures include angioplasty and stenting, bypass surgery, endarterectomy, thrombectomy, and aneurysm repair, among others.

Preparation may involve fasting before surgery, discontinuing certain medications, and discussing any underlying medical conditions with your surgeon.

During surgery, you will typically be under anesthesia, and the surgeon will make incisions as needed to access and repair the affected blood vessels.

Pain management is an important aspect of vascular surgery. Your medical team will provide pain relief options to ensure your comfort during recovery.

Recovery times vary depending on the procedure and individual factors. Some procedures may require a short recovery period, while others may take weeks or months.

Risks may include infection, bleeding, blood clots, and reactions to anesthesia. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you before the procedure.

Most surgical procedures leave some degree of scarring. The size and visibility of the scar will depend on the type of surgery and your body’s healing process.

Vascular surgery can address existing issues and improve blood flow. Lifestyle changes and ongoing medical management may be necessary to prevent future problems.

VEIN SURGERY FAQS

Varicose veins are the prominent, bluish bulges frequently seen in the legs. It is estimated that 20 to 25 million Americans have varicose veins. These swollen and twisted veins are non-functional and are no longer contributing to the circulation of the leg. Varicose veins are usually caused by a problem in an underlying deeper vein. Not only are varicose veins a major cosmetic concern, but as they enlarge, they can produce symptoms such as pain, itching, heaviness, bleeding, skin ulceration, and swelling. Early diagnosis can prevent all of this.

The most common cause of varicose veins is an inherited weakness of the vein wall called Venous Insufficiency. Leg veins contain one-way valves that facilitate the flow of blood back to the heart from the legs against the force of gravity. These valves frequently become weak under so much pressure, and blood pools in the legs, causing swelling and eventually varicose veins. Varicose veins are visible on the skin, but the underlying cause is a vein below the skin. Risk factors include obesity, pregnancy, increasing age, and prolonged standing (a universal problem). Early diagnosis is key to prevent permanent skin damage.

Varicose veins are associated with a variety of symptoms including pain, swelling, restlessness, heaviness, cramping, skin discoloration, rashes and skin ulceration. The symptoms are due to venous congestion (pooling of blood) within the legs. This can lead to inflamed veins (red, tender, knotty veins), hyperpigmentation (dark staining of the skin), and even bleeding. The symptoms of varicose veins are progressive with time. The risk of a life-threatening blood clot is very low.

Varicose veins tend to become gradually worse. As the varicose veins become larger, the risk of associated complications increases. The speed of progression of the disease will be determined by many factors including genetics, occupation, body weight, and use of compression hose. Compression hose does help with the symptoms of venous disease and tends to slow the progression of the disease, but do nothing for the underlying cause of the varicose veins.

Compression stockings are a non-invasive option to help relieve some of the swelling and discomfort associated with varicose vein disorders. Compression may slow the progression of the disease, however, the veins often gradually become worse. Symptoms from abnormal veins (aching, heaviness, restlessness, burning, itching, and swelling) will typically improve while compression hose are on. This will not correct the underlying malfunction of the veins, but is an option for the patient who does not want procedures.

A venous ultrasound is a painless, non-invasive method to thoroughly assess the venous circulation of the legs. The ultrasound shows abnormal veins and reversed flow (reflux), which are the cause of your varicose veins, which is essential to formulating a tailored treatment plan.

Varicose veins are not a life or limb-threatening problem; therefore, treatment is not “absolutely” required if the patient can tolerate the symptoms and the appearance. Most patients eventually decide to proceed with treatment as their discomfort and skin discoloration worsens.

Varicose veins are swollen & twisted veins that typically occur in your legs but can appear anywhere.
Oftentimes, varicose veins or spider veins can lead to more than just an aesthetics issue, they can lead to vein pain in your legs, and make your legs feel heavy and tired. When a vein has become abnormally swollen or dilated, it looks like blue gnarled ropes on the surface of your legs and feet, and it can be an embarrassing condition for many people.

Varicose veins are a widespread condition, affecting nearly 23% of U.S. adults. Research suggests that 55% of women and 45% of men experience some form of vein disease, with the risk increasing with age. By the time individuals reach 50 years old, nearly half will have varicose veins.

Your veins have a system of one-way valves that keep blood from flowing back to your feet as your heart pumps. When these valves start to wear out, the blood flows backward and pools in the veins. This causes the vein to bloat and twist, resulting in an undesired look. While any vein in the body could develop this condition, the legs are the most common given that naturally through activity, those valves work the hardest over time.

In their most mild form, spider veins, can make your legs look bumpy and gnarled. However, sensations of pain and heaviness can occur if proper treatment isn’t sought out. This will usually increase in the evenings or when you have been standing or sitting for a long time. What is happening is that the blood isn’t moving out fast enough and ultimately ends up putting pressure on the nerves.

This is a dangerous sign, especially if there does not seem to be a visible cause. A visual symptom of this occurring can be if a vein turns red, becomes more swollen, or gets inflamed, that is a sign to go see a doctor to check for a blood clot. While not as serious as a clot deeper in the body, clotting near the skin can be a warning sign of deeper venous trouble.

Fortunately, there are treatments if the pain is mild that your doctor can teach you to do for self-care at home, such as wearing compression stockings, elevating your feet, increased exercise, and the use of pain medication. But sometimes a vein requires treatment.
In rare cases, varicose veins can cause skin ulcers and other serious complications. If you have varicose veins, see a doctor right away for treatment options.

Spider veins are a common concern, that well over 80% of people in the United States get as they age. Spider veins can occur at any age. Most of the time they are a cosmetic issue, but some people do not like the look of them and want them removed. Here’s information about spider veins and what you can do to prevent and treat them.

Spider veins appear when small blood vessels near the surface of the skin become dilated with blood. This makes the vessels visible through the skin. The random patterns make it look somewhat like a spider’s web, which is where the name comes from. Unlike varicose veins, spider veins are flat and do not change the texture of the skin. They also do not cause pain in most cases.

Spider veins can manifest differently depending on the individual. While some people might notice these visible clusters of small veins on the skin as merely a cosmetic issue, others may experience more discomfort. Common Symptoms include aching and discomfort, burning sensation, and itching.

There are two common areas where spider veins appear, the legs and the face. The face gets more because there are many tiny blood vessels in the face so the odds of occurrence are higher. The legs tend to get more because those are the vessels that have to work the hardest in the body. Spider veins are like a less-serious version of varicose veins.

While spider veins are a common condition, there are certain factors that increase the chance that spider veins will appear. These include: standing or sitting for too long, family history, general lack of exercise, age, obesity, weight gain, certain drugs, pregnancy, gender, smoking, certain congenital diseases, and hormonal changes.

Sclerotherapy is an effective method for addressing spider veins with minimal invasiveness. The procedure entails preparation, injection, reaction, clotting, and transformation.

Yes, treated spider veins can indeed recur after being addressed.

Leg swelling, medically known as edema, is caused by the buildup of extra fluid in the veins. Typically, this excess fluid can be caused by a problem with the circulatory system, the lymphatic system, or the kidneys. In some cases, swollen legs are nothing to worry about, but other times leg swelling could be the sign of something more serious.

Leg swelling is a common condition that can be caused by various factors. Even wearing tight clothing or shoes can cause your legs to become swollen. While some cases of leg swelling may be nothing to worry about and resolve on their own, others may indicate a more serious underlying health issue. Therefore, paying attention to other symptoms if you have swollen legs is important so you know when to seek medical attention.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a circulatory health issue. This condition creates narrowed arteries that reduce blood flow. The arteries in limbs are affected, mainly the legs, and they do not receive a high enough supply of blood. Peripheral artery disease is also called PAD and peripheral arterial disease.

Peripheral artery disease affects about 8.5 million people in the United States. Many of these people never experience symptoms. It is possible to manage symptoms naturally with a healthy diet, exercise, quitting smoking, and controlling cholesterol and blood pressure. In some cases medical interventions may be needed to treat PAD.

On the day of treatment, be sure to wear loose and comfortable clothes. Your doctor will need to access the diseased veins. Before the procedure, the veins will be marked, then the treatment site will be cleaned and numbed. You will remain awake, but patients report no pain after the local anesthetic is administered. A series of tiny incisions are made by the doctor to access the veins with a surgical hook. The vein is then disrupted, and segments of the vein are removed.

Because this procedure is less invasive than vein stripping, recovery times are also shorter. Patients can return to normal activity almost immediately, however, prescription-strength compression stockings should be worn. The stockings should be worn for at least one week in order to reduce swelling and discomfort. The tiny incisions result in minimal scarring, eliminate the need for stitches, and look like freckles within eight weeks.

The usual side effects include pain and swelling, but this is usually prevented so long as the patient wears the prescribed compression stockings. Ibuprofen or other antiinflammatory medicine can be used to reduce these side effects as well. Other side effects include bruising around the treatment site. Allergic reactions to the anesthetic can also happen, so make sure to discuss any allergies or concerns with your doctor.

Laser ablation, also known as endovenous laser ablation therapy (EVLT), is used to treat varicose veins. EVLT is a minimally invasive procedure that stops the blood flowing from veins that cause enlarged, varicose veins. After treatment, the veins are able to flow through healthy veins, causing the varicose veins to disappear. Depending on the severity of the varicose veins, some treatments can take up to 12 months for the unhealthy, varicose veins to become invisible.

Patients should be aware that the laser treatment may cause side effects such as skin burns. Skin discoloration may also occur for patients with darker skin, but will usually fade in time. Finally, in rare cases, blood clots may form in surface or deep veins. Consult with your doctor if you have any questions about the side effects of laser therapy.

Radiofrequency ablation, a vein procedure, uses radiofrequency energy to close off a vein, usually in the legs, but possibly in other parts of the body. The inside walls of the vein heat up from the radiofrequency waves and the damage causes them to close and heal a varicose vein. This procedure is minimally invasive with little downtime.

When using radiofrequency ablation to treat varicose veins, your doctor will first map out your veins with an ultrasound. After the correct veins to treat are determined, a local anesthetic is injected into the treatment area for comfort. Through a small entry point, a radiofrequency fiber is inserted into the vein. This delivers the energy pulse that will close off the vein. With the vein closed, the radiofrequency fiber is withdrawn and the small incision closed.

Radiofrequency ablation treatments have extremely favorable success rates, and most patients do not require additional treatment. However, as with any procedure, there may be some side effects.
The most common side effect patients report is soreness or tenderness around the injection site, which can be treated as described above. A small percentage of patients may require additional varicose vein therapy.

Sclerotherapy treatments are nonsurgical procedures that are commonly used to treat spider veins and varicose veins. Essentially, sclerotherapy vein treatments disrupt blood flow in the diseased vein causing the vessel to break down and disappear. Sclerotherapy uses a sclerosant medicine injected into the diseased vein. This type of treatment is the most common way to treat and reduce the appearance of varicose and spider veins.

Common side effects of sclerotherapy are minor and usually fade within a few days. Patients may experience some itching or bruising around the treatment site. Another side effect may be raised red areas where the veins were injected and should disappear in a matter of days. If this happens, ibuprofen or another pain reliever can be taken to reduce inflammation.

Varithena® is an injectable foam used in treating the appearance of superficial veins. It is a nonsurgical, minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins. FDA approved and covered by most major insurances, Varithena® (polidocanol) could be your key to pain relief caused by vein disease.

Varithena® is minimally invasive, which means there is no surgical treatment required. Instead, Varithena® requires only a few injections with a needle. As a form of sclerotherapy, this treatment for varicose veins is done in-office via a small injection. Varithena® is an injectable foam used to displace blood and destroy the endothelial lining of veins.

Depending on the number and size of veins being treated, it is possible to have only one treatment, but more may be needed.

Because Varithena® is a minimally invasive treatment, normal activities can be resumed immediately. Patients should avoid heavy activity for at least one week. Patients are also required to wear compression stockings for at least two weeks. It is also encouraged that patients walk regularly for at least one month after treatment in order to promote healthy circulation.

Knowing if you are an ideal candidate for a Varithena® treatment will be based on a few factors such, a doctor will be able to determine if Varithena® is the right treatment for your varicose veins, and, if not, will be able to provide alternative treatments to provide relief and comfort.

Rashes or dryness, discoloration, foul-smelling fluid oozing from the sore, tenderness or soreness around the sore.

Traditionally, treating venous ulcers involves preventatively wearing compression stockings to reduce swelling and slow down skin damage from venous ulcers. Once venous skin ulcers form, traditional treatments become more aggressive. Over the years, vein experts have made progress with new endovascular treatments, surgical treatments that open up the blocked veins with intravenous balloons and stents.

WEIGHT LOSS SOLUTIONS FAQS

Bariatric surgery (also known as weight loss surgery) focuses on treating the patient’s digestive organs in order to improve weight loss, type 2 diabetes and heart disease. This surgical procedure is performed to help individuals who are severely overweight or obese achieve significant weight loss by reducing the size of the stomach and/or altering the digestive process.

Candidates for bariatric surgery typically have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher (or BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions), have tried and failed to lose weight through diet and exercise, and are committed to making long-term lifestyle changes.

The most common types of bariatric surgery include gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, adjustable gastric banding, and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch. Each procedure works differently to achieve weight loss and has its own benefits and risks.

Weight loss results vary depending on the type of surgery, individual factors, and adherence to post-operative guidelines. On average, patients can expect to lose 50- 70% of their excess body weight within the first 2 years following surgery.

Yes, following surgery, you will need to transition through various stages of a postoperative diet, starting with liquids and gradually progressing to soft foods and then solid foods. It’s essential to follow your surgeon’s dietary guidelines to promote healing and maximize weight loss.

The recovery period varies depending on the type of surgery and individual factors. Most patients can expect to return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks, although strenuous exercise may need to be avoided for a longer period.

Yes, bariatric surgery can affect nutrient absorption, so lifelong supplementation with vitamins and minerals is typically recommended to prevent deficiencies. Your healthcare team will provide specific recommendations based on your individual needs.

While bariatric surgery is generally safe, like any surgical procedure, it carries risks and potential complications. These may include infection, bleeding, blood clots, leakage at the surgical site, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and gastrointestinal issues.

While some procedures, such as gastric banding, can be reversed, most bariatric surgeries are considered permanent changes to the digestive system. It’s essential to carefully consider the decision to undergo bariatric surgery and discuss all options with your healthcare provider.

Preparation for bariatric surgery is multifaceted, involving nutritional, physical, and psychological evaluations to ensure candidates are fully prepared for the life changes accompanying the surgery.

Your doctor or provider may deem it necessary for you to lose additional weight prior to your surgery. This can be due to a number of reasons, such as decreasing the chances of complications during surgery. If you are struggling to lose any stubborn fat there are weight loss injections such as Mounjaro or Ozempic that can help to meet a set goal weight prior to surgery.

The post-operative phase is critical, with dietary adjustments, exercise, and lifestyle changes forming the cornerstone of successful weight management. It is a commitment to a new way of life, requiring dedication, perseverance, and support.

Bariatric surgery is undoubtedly a powerful tool for weight loss; however, it’s not a magic bullet. Weight loss requires a commitment to dietary changes, regular physical activity, and ongoing support.

Due to the reduced food intake and potential changes in nutrient absorption postsurgery, most patients must take multivitamins, calcium, vitamin B12, and possibly other supplements indefinitely to prevent deficiencies.

The time spent in the hospital typically ranges from one to three days, and many patients resume normal activities within a few weeks. Complete recovery and adaptation to new dietary habits may take several months.

If you meet the above criteria then you will most likely be approved for this type of procedure. There is not much wiggle room for requirements as this is a serious and major surgery. After an initial consultation for this surgery it may take a week or two for your provider to give you the green light.

While there is not a set minimum weight to undergo bariatric surgery, there is a set BMI range that makes up an ideal candidate for this surgery. That BMI range is between 30 – 35 with additional obesity related conditions, or a BMI over 40.