There are plenty of options to consider when it comes to spider and varicose vein treatment. Whether you are considering sclerotherapy, laser therapy, closure techniques or any other treatment option, it is important to ask the right questions when choosing a doctor or clinic. By doing your homework and knowing which questions to ask ahead of time you'll be able to find a doctor that you'll feel comfortable with and increase the odds that the treatment you choose will be successful.

Here are 7 questions that are asked most often, and the types of answers you can expect from a top-notch vein treatment center.

1. What can I expect from a consultation at a quality vein clinic?

A: Your initial consultation should determine if you have any of the clinical signs or symptoms of venous insufficiency. If so, the clinic will perform a color duplex ultrasound exam. This allows doctors to assess the venous anatomy, vein valve function, and venous blood flow changes, and to firmly establish a diagnosis and create your treatment plan. This ultrasound examination is thorough, includes assessment of both the deep and superficial venous systems, and should be interpreted by a Board Certified Radiologist. Your diagnosis and treatment plan will be discussed with you and any questions or concerns will be fully addressed. Some clinics will contact your insurance company and supply them with information to help pre-certify you for covered treatment

2. How long does a typical varicose or spider vein procedure take?

A: It depends on which exact procedure you and your doctor decide on, but most modern treatment options take less than an hour to complete. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may have to go in for several sessions - it is important to ask your doctor about this before scheduling so that you come into the treatment with realistic expectations of the results.

3. How long before I can resume normal activities?

A: Immediately after the procedure you will be up and walking. Very strenuous exercise should be avoided for around 2 weeks and it is important to let your doctor know about any circumstances that may require you to be more active. He or she can then advise you on precautions you should take to ensure you continue to heal normally.

4. Will my insurance cover vein procedures?

A. Varicose veins are part of a medical condition and therefore are typically covered by most insurance providers. Spider veins, on the other hand, are usually considered cosmetic and may or may not be covered by your insurance. Most clinics will be happy to work with you and your insurance carrier to determine the best treatment and payment options.

5. Are stripping & ligation a good procedures for varicose veins?

A. No. Stripping and Ligation were, at one time, the usual surgical methods to remove abnormal veins. These procedures involved making incisions that required suturing and a prolonged recovery period. This type of surgery often caused significant bruising, pain, nerve damage and, in some cases, poor cosmetic results. With the current technologies available, vein stripping and ligation are no longer necessary and most vein clinics and specialists no longer recommend the procedures.

6. Do varicose or spider vein procedures hurt?

A. There is virtually no pain associated with vein treatment. You may feel a little needle poke at the beginning of the procedure, but painful surgical vein treatments are a thing of the past.

7. Why do you perform ultrasounds while standing?

A. In order to look for the refluxing (leaking) veins which usually cause varicose veins. If an ultrasound is performed while laying down, this abnormality will usually be missed.