Q: How do I know if I have a varicose vein problem or a spider vein problem?
A: Close your eyes (while standing) and feel your legs. If you cannot feel the veins, you have a spider vein problem. If you can feel the veins, and they push in easily but spring right back out, you have a varicose vein issue. 

Q: Can lasers be used for all vein problems?
A: The lasers Dr. Johnson uses are very effective for spider veins, but lasers have a limited role when they are the only treatment for leg veins. Lasers can only destroy what they can "see." To prevent new problem veins from forming, the deeper high pressure veins that feed the surface have to be eliminated and those are invisible to the laser. If not properly eliminated, new veins can form around the old ones and then you're likely to have those issues again.

Q: Do I have to be put asleep for vein care treatments?
A: No, most varicose vein procedures can be done with local anesthesia, plus (if needed) some sedation by mouth. Even some larger veins can be removed without general anesthesia.

Q: Do I have to stay off my feet for an extending period of time?
A: No, all procedures are done on an outpatient basis, you're actually encouraged to walk

Q: I've heard about microphlebectomies, can you tell me more about that?
A: Microphlebectomies are tiny incisions through which varicose veins are carefully removed. The procedure can be time consuming because of the amount of small incisions needed. The good news is that this is a simple procedure requiring minimal expense and with very few complications.

Q: What about Endovenous Laser Closure (ELAS) of the saphenous vein, are all varicose vein patients good candidates for this?
A: No, closure is used only with patients that suffer from reflux in the greater saphenous vein (the major outside thigh vein). Patients that cannot be treated with endovenous closure of the saphenous vein include: 
           1.) Recurrent varicose veins
           2.) About half the veins that result from reflux in the short saphenous vein (behind the knee) 
           3.) Varicose veins that are unrelated to saphenous vein reflux.

Q: Is my treatment done here in Twin Falls or do I have to go elsewhere?
A: The treatment is provided in our procedure room at our local office.

Q: What about Insurance Coverage?
A: Doctors and insurance companies know that varicose veins are medical issues. Medicare and some insurance companies have certain criteria that must be met before they will consider reimbursement.