→ Castle Connolly Top Doctor Web Link ←

 

Highlights from the Castle Connolly Website

With over 25 years’ experience researching, reviewing and selecting Top Doctors, Castle Connolly is a source you can count on when looking for the best in American medicine. In fact, a 2018 study published in the Journal of Medical Research found that across several specialties Castle Connolly’s peer-reviewed directory was much more reliable than sites that just relied on patient reviews when it came to identifying quality care. No one can pay to be a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, each physician has been hand selected. Our mission is to find you the best possible care. At Castle Connolly, we’ve done the research so you don’t have to.

Castle Connolly evaluates several criteria when selecting Top Doctors, including professional qualifications, education, hospital and faculty appointments, research leadership, professional reputation and disciplinary history. Where available, we include outcomes data in our research. We also ask doctors in our survey to consider not only the training and clinical skills of the physicians they nominate, but also interpersonal skills such as listening and communicating effectively, demonstrating empathy, and instilling trust and confidence.

At Zenith Health & Aesthetics in Memphis, TN, your health and aesthetics are our top priorities. We offer several treatment options for clients who are displeased with the appearance of their varicose veins. But for each of these treatment options, we get several questions. Today, we answer our most frequently asked questions about microphlebectomy, including what it means.

What Does Microphlebectomy Mean?

Microphlebectomy refers to the removal of a medium to large varicose vein through a tiny incision made in the affected area. Most commonly, this treatment is performed to remove varicose veins in the leg. However, varicose veins may also occur in other parts of the body, such as the abdomen, chest, hands and arms.

How Large Are the Incisions?

The incisions made to perform this treatment are less than 1/4″ in length. The exact size of the incision made will depend on the length of the vein. Most of the incisions we make are only 1 to 3 mm in length.

However, you need not worry about visible scars after the treatment. The incision will only be perceptible for a few weeks. Then it will fade and you will be left with varicose vein-free legs.

What Happens When the Varicose Veins Are Removed?

Once the diseased veins are removed, the blood previously attempting to flow through those veins is rerouted to other deep veins within the legs. Few people realize that they don’t need every one of their veins. In fact, circulation is improved drastically once the diseased vein is removed because blood isn’t struggling to reach your heart anymore.

Will I Have to Spend the Night in a Hospital?

Absolutely not! This outpatient procedure is performed in our state-of-the-art office. You are free to go home as soon as we’re done and we’ve ensured you understand how to care for your treated region after the treatment.

How Long Does it Take?

Depending on the size, number and locations of the varicose veins, you can expect this treatment to take around an hour. However, you may receive an ultrasound of the area before the procedure so we can see exactly what we are dealing with.

This will make the actual treatment go a lot faster and it also ensures it is more effective. It also ensures that the other deep veins in the area are healthy and not the cause of the varicose veins you need to be removed.

How Do I Prepare for This Treatment?

To prepare for this treatment, we will perform a physical examination of the area to determine where the dysfunctional valves are located. Besides using a handheld ultrasound device to see the veins and valves better, we may also order a duplex scan. This helps us to see the amount of blood flow through the affected veins. It also rules out thromboses in the veins.

It is extremely important that you tell us about any over-the-counter or prescription medications you are currently taking or have taken recently. You may need to stop taking certain types of medications or nutritional supplements, such as those that may thin the blood or prevent blood clotting.

What Are the Benefits of Treatment?

No Downtime

After treatment, you are immediately able to walk and continue with your daily routine. There is no serious downtime involved, and you’ll enjoy the new look of your legs very quickly.

Good for Nearly Anyone

If you are displeased with the appearance of varicose veins, there is a very good chance you are the perfect candidate for this treatment. The types of veins that this treatment corrects are varicose veins that are bulging, close to the surface of the skin (superficial) or twisted.

The best candidate will be in fairly good overall health and have a positive, but realistic, outlook regarding the treatment process and expectations. We will ensure during your initial consultation that you have a solid understanding of what to expect during and after treatment. 

During your initial consultation, we will assess the size, number, and location of your varicose veins to determine if you should choose this treatment method for your varicose veins. 

Immediate Relief

Most of our clients opt for this treatment method because the pain relief derived from removing the bulging, twisted veins is immediate. Moreover, there is no downtime or extensive recovery period. After an hour or less, they are free to go about their day. The only difference to your day is there will be no painful swelling, discomfort, itching, irritation, pressure, numbness or tingling. Even better, your aesthetic will be improved immediately, as well.

Permanent Results

The results of this treatment, also known as ambulatory phlebectomy, are permanent. However, depending on the cause of your superficial varicose veins, you may need a follow-up treatment. If the reason you were developing varicose veins in the first place is not treated, there is nothing stopping other veins from bulging and twisting.

Other FAQ About Varicose Vein Treatment

Are Varicose Veins Dangerous?

Varicose veins have the potential to be dangerous. Because the blood in varicose veins pools, it can clot. This painful condition is known as superficial phlebitis and is not necessarily dangerous. When a blood clot forms outside the vein or you develop deep vein thrombosis, the clot can break off from the vein.

When a blood clot separates from a vein, it can travel all the way through your circulatory system and become lodged in one of your lungs. Such a condition is known as a pulmonary embolism and is potentially fatal.

Will I Have to Pay Out of Pocket for This Treatment?

That depends on your health insurance provider. Because varicose veins pose a health risk and often have already caused medical problems, most health insurance providers will cover this treatment. At Zenith Health & Aesthetics in Memphis, TN, we have proudly partnered with Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee, AETNA, Cigna and UnitedHealthcare.

Talk to your health insurance provider about your interest in this treatment. If they cover it, you may have to pay a small amount out-of-pocket if you have not yet met your deductible for the year. Otherwise, the entire treatment, including anesthesia, will be covered depending on your plan.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are caused by increased venous blood pressure. In healthy leg veins, blood travels towards the heart via one-way valves. When these valves weaken or become damaged, blood pools in the veins. Some of the most common causes of varicose veins are excessive alcohol consumption, nicotine consumption, obesity, pregnancy and a sedentary lifestyle.

How Can I Mitigate My Risk of Developing Varicose Veins in the Future?

To mitigate your risk of developing varicose veins in the future, get your overall health in check. If you are overweight or obese, reach a healthy weight. To manage your blood pressure, do not consume nicotine, alcohol, caffeine or sodium in excess. If you are pregnant, wear prescription-strength compression stockings and keep your legs elevated while you rest.

What Other Treatment Options Do I Have?

There are several other treatment options for varicose veins. Another one of our most popular varicose vein treatment methods is VenaSeal therapy. VenaSeal is a revolutionary form of endovenous ablation that is unlike any other method of endovenous ablation on the market.

Rather than sealing a diseased vein with heat or radiofrequency energy, the diseased vein is healed with a medical adhesive. You are a good candidate for this treatment if you are looking for an alternative to closing veins with heat or energy therapy and have realistic expectations about the treatment and outcome.

What Can I Expect From VenaSeal Therapy?

VenaSeal therapy treatments are performed on an out-patient basis in our state-of-the-art office. Guided by ultrasound technology, we place a catheter into the damaged vein. Once the catheter is in place, we use a proprietary medical adhesive to seal and close the vein.

A bit of pressure is applied to the leg during the treatment. However, because it does not involve heat or energy, there is no pain or discomfort. Treatment is very short and you are free to return to your daily routine immediately after treatment. While the closure of the disordered vein is immediate, the results of your treatment will become more apparent over time.

Is Endovenous Laser Treatment Right for Me?

Endovenous laser treatment for varicose veins, also known as ELT, is an ultrasound-guided treatment method using laser energy. During this treatment, an optical fiber is inserted into the disordered vein and infrared laser light delivers light energy inside the vein. As the vein contracts, the optical fiber is slowly withdrawn.

This incredibly quick treatment may be right for you if you are at risk of complications from vein disease, you suffer from physical symptoms of varicose veins and you’re seeking a non-surgical, highly effective alternative to varicose vein treatment.

What Can I Expect Before ELT?

Before ELT, we will examine your condition and discuss your personal preference to create a tailored treatment plan for your unique case. We are more than happy to answer any and all questions you have about treatment and insurance benefits. If the extent of your vein disease is significant, we will map your veins with ultrasound technology.

This will give us a comprehensive venous flow map that helps us see details not visible from the surface of your skin. This makes the treatment much safer and more effective and efficient. It may also be used to diagnose the cause of your varicose veins, such as other diseased veins deeper within the region.

What Can I Expect After ELT?

After ELT, you are immediately able to return to most of your daily routine. However, you should avoid high-impact activities and wear compression garments for two weeks after treatment. While the treated veins will not open up and become varicose again, currently healthy veins may become varicose in the future.

If you are concerned with developing new varicose veins in the future, we strongly recommend coming in for a regular follow-up appointment to assess your veins and identify potential problems before they become an issue.

Discover How to Improve Your Health and Aesthetics Today

Are you sick and tired of hiding your legs due to gnarly varicose veins? Do you wish you had the self-confidence of your friends and family members? With the help of microphlebectomy, you can. To learn more about this revolutionary treatment, please contact us today at Zenith Health & Aesthetics in Memphis, TN to schedule your initial consultation.

Did you know that most women will have uterine fibroids before they reach age 50? Symptoms can range from unnoticeable to downright debilitating. Uterine fibroid embolization is the premier minimally invasive treatment for uterine fibroids, and it offers significant advantages over a hysterectomy. Let the expert staff at Zenith Health & Aesthetics in Memphis, TN ease your uterine fibroid pain so you can live a more comfortable life.

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are non-cancerous growths on the uterus that affect premenopausal women. These growths appear on the muscular walls of the uterus and can range from pea to grapefruit size.

Having uterine fibroids does not put you at an increased risk of developing uterine cancer. Most women, up to 80%, will develop uterine fibroids by the age of 50.

Types of Fibroids

Four types of uterine fibroids may form in the uterus: intramural, pedunculated, submucosal, and subserosal fibroids. Women can one or more types of fibroids at any time. Each type may cause different symptoms.

Intramural Fibroids

Intramural fibroids are the most common fibroids found in the uterus. These fibroids grow in the uterine wall and can grow to very large sizes if left untreated. Some women have many intramural fibroids growing in the same region. Pelvic or lower back pain and abnormal bleeding may result from this fibroid type.

Pedunculated Fibroids

Pedunculated fibroids grow from stem-like structures (peduncles) and form on the wall of the uterus or inside the cavity of the uterus. Quick movements may cause the peduncle to twist and cut blood flow, resulting in intense pain.

Submucosal Fibroids

Submucosal fibroids, the rarest type of fibroid, form under the uterine lining where they may crowd the uterine cavity. This type of fibroid may cause excessive bleeding and other significant complications.

Subserosal Fibroids

Subserosal fibroids grow on the outer uterine wall. Large growths in this region can crowd nearby organs and cause discomfort or pain.

What Are the Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are very common, and many women do not know they have them. Many women do not have symptoms or do not notice the signs. The location, size, and the number of fibroids present may influence whether or not you experience symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms of uterine fibroids are:

• Constipation
• Difficulty emptying the bladder
• Frequent urination
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Leg pain
• Lower back pain
• Pain during intercourse
• Pelvic pressure or pain
• Prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Spotting between periods

Any of the symptoms above warrant a trip to your doctor. If you experience any sharp pain in your pelvic region or have severe vaginal bleeding, please seek immediate medical attention.

What Are the Risk Factors for Uterine Fibroids?

Although the precise cause for fibroids remains a mystery, there are a few risk factors that seem to be at play. Any one or more of the following factors could increase your chances of developing fibroids:

Hormones

Uterine fibroids are linked to the hormones estrogen and progesterone—two distinctly feminine hormones. The hormonal connection with fibroids is why nearly all women experience them at some point in their lives. For premenopausal women, these two hormones signal the uterine lining to prepare for pregnancy every month.

Genetics

If someone in your family has a history of uterine fibroids, there is an increased chance that you will also develop them. Researchers have found that women who develop fibroids have variations in a set of genes associated with the female reproductive organs.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the female body has a surge of estrogen and progesterone, the quintessentially female hormones mentioned above. As a result, getting pregnant could increase your risk of developing fibroids.

How Do I Find Out If I Have Fibroids on My Uterus?

Your gynecologist may detect fibroids during a routine examination. If your uterus feels enlarged, an ultrasound can confirm the presence of fibroids. After detection, an MRI can pinpoint the location and number of fibroids and determine their exact sizes.

If you have symptoms of fibroids, your doctor may run tests to investigate the cause. These tests may include blood work such as a complete blood count (CBC) or imagining tests to look for the presence of fibroids. Fibroid specific imagining tests include a hysterosonography, hysterosalpingography, and hysteroscopy.

How Do I Treat Uterine Fibroids?

There are several options for treating uterine fibroids. Your doctor may suggest hormonal medications first. If these treatment options prove unsuccessful, you are tasked with finding the best treatment for you.

Old Solution: Hysterectomy

In the past, women had few options other than hysterectomy to remove fibroids. Hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus. Although this operation is effective for eliminating all fibroids, it is also a major surgery that comes with long recovery times, a hospital stay, and receiving general anesthesia.

Women who undergo a hysterectomy no longer have their uterus. Removing the uterus can cause hormonal issues and trouble with the bladder, bowels, and the pelvic floor after the operation.

New Solution: Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

Many women are opting for the modern treatment to remove uterine fibroids called uterine fibroid embolization.

What Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization?

UFE is a minimally invasive uterine fibroid treatment that cuts off blood supply to fibroids to make them shrink. We insert a small catheter and a moving x-ray called a fluoroscope into a tiny opening in the upper thigh until they reach blood vessels near your fibroids. The special x-ray ensures precision and safety throughout the treatment.

We push tiny particles called embolization spheres through the catheter to block fibroid blood flow. Disabled blood flow causes the fibroids to shrink. After shrinking, fibroids die off, which eliminates many of the associated symptoms.

What Are the Benefits of UFE?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists declared uterine fibroid embolization as an alternative to hysterectomy for good reasons. There are many prominent benefits of choosing UFE over hysterectomy.

This endorsement is excellent news for the 250,000 U.S. women who consider a hysterectomy each year. Below we look at the most notable benefits of choosing UFE over a hysterectomy for uterine fibroids.

Uterus Preservation

Choosing UFE means keeping your uterus. Removing the uterus isn’t the ideal choice for many women, because a hysterectomy eliminates the ability for a woman to conceive. If you still wish to become pregnant or would like to preserve the possibility, UFE is the ideal uterine fibroid treatment for you.

The scientific community has not determined the viability of pregnancy after UFE conclusively. Although there is no guarantee that UFE will preserve your fertility, the chances of conceiving are far higher with your uterus intact.

UFE Doesn’t Influence Hormones or Organs

You won’t experience changes in your hormones or organs. A hysterectomy forces women into early menopause and all the hormonal changes that arise from this. Removing the uterus can impact the bladder, bowels, and pelvic floor. All three regions are interlinked with the uterus and impacted during surgery. They can cause unwanted post-operative symptoms of their own, including pain, infection, and protruding tissue.

With UFE, you don’t have to worry about any changes to your hormones or organs. This minimally invasive treatment does not influence any other region of the body.

Reduced Recovery Times

You can resume regular activities within a few days. The full recovery period for a hysterectomy is around six to eight weeks. Usually, it takes at least a week or two after your appointment to return to work or other daily activities.

With UFE, many women feel ready to return to work within a few days after treatment. You can expect a full recovery within one or two weeks after the uterine fibroid embolization treatment.

Outpatient Procedure

UFE is usually an outpatient procedure, whereas a hysterectomy is a major surgery that requires extended hospital stays. A hysterectomy is a serious operation, and you must stay in the hospital for the medical staff to monitor you.

UFE takes around one hour to complete, and you will not need to stay in the hospital for an extended amount of time for observation.

Fewer Risks

Uterine fibroid embolization is a lower-risk alternative to hysterectomy. All major surgeries come with risks. Whether its anesthesia or infection, you contend with fewer risks when opting for UFE.

High Success Rate

UFE has an average success rate of around 90% when assessing all the study results. Five years after treatment, approximately 80% of patients still do not have any symptoms and therefore need not have a hysterectomy or further fibroid treatment.

Improved Mood and Self-Confidence

You’ll feel like yourself again without compromise. Living with the symptoms of uterine fibroids can seriously disrupt your quality of life. Pain, sexual issues, and heavy periods can take a toll on your mental health and overall wellbeing. Self-esteem and confidence can suffer when you aren’t feeling in good physical health.

You may not even realize how uterine fibroid symptoms influence your mood. Most women find substantial symptom relief after undergoing UFE. What many don’t expect is the dramatic improvement to their outlook on life. Removing unwanted symptoms creates a ripple effect for rediscovered positivity to flow in your life.

Cheaper Overall Costs

UFE delivers comparable results without the higher price tag. With health care, everything adds up. The intensity of the procedure, the longer stay in the hospital, and follow-ups for a hysterectomy can cost much more than UFE.

This safe, effective, and streamlined treatment doesn’t require hospitalization, which can save you thousands of dollars overall.

Is UFE Better Than a Hysterectomy?

For many women, UFE is the better option. The research concludes that both uterine fibroid treatment options have similar success rates; however, a hysterectomy comes with potential downsides that many women wish to avoid.

Will UFE Remove All of My Fibroids?

Although UFE does not remove all fibroids, it will shrink them substantially. The high success rate shows that this method is one of the most effective treatments for uterine fibroids. After the procedure, symptoms such as severe pain and heavy periods go away, and you avoid the risks associated with a major operation.

Am I Candidate for UFE?

If you are struggling with symptoms of uterine fibroids or believe you might be, you could be a candidate for UFE. Ideal candidates for treatment are:

• Age 18 or older
• Not pregnant
• Wish to preserve the uterus
• Do not have a pelvic infection
• Have symptoms of uterine fibroids

UFE isn’t for everyone. The best way to determine your eligibility for treatment is to schedule an appointment with us. We’ll discuss your full medical history, symptoms, and treatment options.

Will Health Insurance Cover UFE?

Most health insurance companies cover UFE. If you have questions about whether your insurance will cover this procedure, please contact them directly.

Schedule an Appointment

Most women agree that uterine fibroid embolization is the best option for them. With a high success rate and a host of extraordinary benefits, we believe that you will agree. If you are ready to discover what UFE can do for you, contact us today. Schedule an appointment at Zenith Health & Aesthetics in Memphis, TN to learn more.

At Zenith Health & Aesthetics in Memphis, TN, we believe strongly that each of our clients deserves to live a happy, healthy life. That is why we are proud to offer the safest, most effective diagnostic methods to identify illnesses and help you treat them. Today, we answer some of our most commonly asked questions about a vascular ultrasound.

What Can I Expect From a Vascular Ultrasound?

Before your vascular ultrasound, we will ask you to change into a gown and lie down on the examination table. Your specially trained ultrasound tech will ensure your comfort and then conduct your examination. To ensure the ultrasound equipment maintains good contact with your skin, a gel is applied. Then the transducer, which is a small handheld device, is applied to the area.

High-frequency sound waves transmit through your body during a vascular ultrasound. The transducer aggregates data from the sound waves that bounce back. The ultrasound device translates this data into images that appear on a screen in the room. Once your ultrasound technician has collected all the images she needs, she will send them to a radiologist to interpret them and create a full report.

How Long Will the Exam Take?

Because there is no need for anesthesia, you will not have to spend too long in our office. Depending on what we are looking for and where we are looking, your exam will only take between 30 and 45 minutes. Once we have all the images we need, we will remove the ultrasound gel and you are free to get dressed and enjoy the rest of your day.

What Can I Expect From the Results?

There are many reasons why this examination may be performed. For instance, it may be used to detect aneurysms, blockages or blood clots in deep veins. It may be performed to assess how successful a prior procedure was or whether a particular blood vessel is a good candidate for grafting.

If you have heart disease, your physician may request this examination to see the extent of plaque buildup. This imaging test also allows radiologists to monitor blood flow to internal tissues and organs. Finally, it may be used to determine the location and extent of varicose veins and identify candidacy for angioplasty.

What Side Effects Can I Expect?

Ultrasounds have been used safely and effectively for 64 years. In all this time, there have been no reports of harmful side effects from the examination. More importantly, because it is non-invasive, there is no self-care afterward. You may take all your regular medications and drink and eat as normal.

What Preparation Requirements Can I Expect?

During your initial consultation, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of everything you need to do in preparation for your vascular imaging test. The preparation required depends on the area of your body being tested and the goal of the examination.

For aortic, renal artery stenosis or iliac vena cava vascular imaging test, you should not eat or drink for six hours beforehand. You may take a sip of water with medication if absolutely necessary.

Abdominal Vascular Imaging Preparation

Preparation vascular imaging tests are used to test the kidneys, pancreas, liver, spleen, gallbladder, abdominal aorta or biliary system. This exam takes only half an hour, but the preparation requirements are a little more rigid. Adults should not eat or drink for eight hours prior to the exam.

Children should skip a meal or avoid eating and drinking during the four hours leading up to the examination. Diabetics should take insulin as normal. However, any other medication should only be taken with a sip of water if absolutely necessary.

Should I Consider a Vascular Imaging Test?

During your initial consultation, we will help you determine if this imaging test will be beneficial for you. Because it can be used to capture images virtually anywhere, there is an excellent chance this imaging test can help you. Here are some cases when we recommend this type of test:

You May Have Deep Vein Thrombosis

If you have been diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or you think you may suffer from deep vein thrombosis, you can benefit from a vascular imaging test. This will tell us exactly where the blood clot is, how large it is and how severely it is narrowing your veins.

You Have Varicose Veins

If you suffer from varicose veins or spider veins, you can also benefit from this diagnostic imaging test. Primarily, it tells us exactly where the affected veins are, the extent of their effect, how many veins are affected and if there are any blood clots attached to the affected veins.

Moreover, ultrasound technology can be used to help us treat varicose veins. We proudly offer ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy to provide the safest, most comfortable, most effective varicose vein treatments. Among other things, this tells us if there are venous or arterial vascular problems.

You Have Spider Veins

Vascular imaging can also benefit you if you suffer from spider veins. But it doesn’t just help us identify and assess the affected veins. It also helps us inject treatment exactly where it will be the most effective.

You Have Kidney Problems

The problem with most imaging tests is they require special dyes that are damaging to the kidneys. If one of your kidneys is already damaged, you are not a good candidate for that type of imaging test. This is not the case with vascular imaging. Moreover, this type of imaging test can create accurate pictures of the kidneys to identify problems quickly.

You Suffer From Peripheral Arterial Disease

Particularly if you will receive an endovascular procedure to treat peripheral arterial disease, you should strongly consider diagnostic vascular imaging. Peripheral arterial disease is a medical condition that leads the arteries in your lower extremities to become so clogged or narrowed that circulation is impeded. Eventually, your leg muscles can’t receive enough oxygen to function.

Angioplasty and stenting are the most common endovascular procedure recommended to treat peripheral arterial disease. This procedure is also used to treat angina caused by blocked arteries to the heart. In the case of peripheral arterial disease affecting your legs, bypass may be recommended to prevent you from losing a foot or leg due to extreme arterial narrowing.

You Have Emboli

You may know that thrombi are clots of blood that are commonly associated with varicose veins. But did you know that emboli are just as dangerous as thrombi? These are clots that form inside blood vessels. They are most commonly comprised of clusters of bacteria, fat globules or air.

However, they may also be made up of foreign matter, such as shrapnel. Vascular imaging allows us to remove whatever type of clot you have safely and effectively. Removal of thrombi is particularly important because thrombi can break off, travel through your circulatory system, lodge into your lungs and prove fatal.

You Have Venous Inflammation

Ultrasound can also be used to treat internal venous inflammation. Venous inflammation may occur due to trauma, infection or an autoimmune disorder. Examples of trauma include chemical trauma, like from the injection of an irritant, or physical trauma, like from a fall. Autoimmune disorder examples include aortic arch syndrome, Raynaud’s disease and polyarteritis.

Is a Vascular Ultrasound the Same Thing As a Doppler Ultrasound?

A Doppler ultrasound is often performed concurrently with a vascular ultrasound. They are not the same thing. A Doppler ultrasound is used to measure blood flow and create color images to indicate the speed and direction of blood flow through the vascular system. This examination is usually conducted on the veins and arteries of the neck, legs, arms and abdomen.

What Can I Expect Before a Doppler Ultrasound?

During your initial consultation, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of instructions so you can prepare for your Doppler ultrasound. Neither sedation nor fasting will be required. However, you should avoid smoking and drinking caffeine for two hours before the exam.

What Can I Expect During a Doppler Exam?

At the start of your exam, you must remove any jewelry or accessories that may interfere with the exam. However, you are free to wear dentures, spectacles or hearing aids. If your exam requires you to remove clothing, you will put on a gown. Then, you will lie down on the exam bed. Your ultrasound tech will apply the gel to the area she wants to hear a pulse from.

Your ultrasound tech will apply a blood pressure cuff in three different locations in the area. For instance, in the case of the legs, cuffs will be placed around the thigh, calf and ankle. The cuff on the thigh will be inflated first. The Doppler transducer placed just below the cuff will determine the blood pressure. Next, the calf cuff will be inflated. Blood pressure is measured. Last, the ankle cuff is inflated and blood pressure measured.

What Can I Expect After a Doppler Exam?

After a Doppler exam, you are free to go about your day. There is no special after-care or restrictions. Once the radiologist analyzes the images and makes a diagnosis, you will schedule a follow-up appointment. During this appointment, we will create a customized treatment plan to address whatever medical concerns you have.

How Can I Keep My Veins Healthy?

While vascular imaging can be used to help treat your veins, it is important to keep your veins healthy once they are healed. Here are some actionable steps you can take to protect your venous health:

Eat Right

The health of your vein walls depends largely on a healthy diet. Consume your recommended daily allowance (RDA) of nutrients by trying to eat fruits and vegetables with every meal. Consuming no more than three grams of sodium daily will also protect venous health by not impeding circulation.

Use Compression

If you have suffered from venous insufficiency in the past, you are at risk of developing it again in the future. An excellent preventative measure you can take is wearing a prescription compression garment. These help your body move blood from the extremities back to your heart.

Seek Treatment

Venous insufficiency rarely gets better on its own. The best thing you can do to keep your veins healthy is to seek treatment if you start to notice signs of a vein condition. The sooner you are diagnosed with vascular imaging and treated, the better off you will be.

Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today

For the best organ care you can receive in Memphis, we strongly urge you to call us today at Zenith Health & Aesthetics in Memphis, TN to schedule your initial consultation. With the help of vascular ultrasound, we can quickly and accurately diagnose what ails you so we can get you on the best possible treatment plan for your needs.

Do you frequently experience leg pain when doing simple things such as walking around? If so, you may be suffering from peripheral arterial disease (PAD), also known as peripheral artery disease. Some sufferers of PAD do not exhibit any symptoms, so it is important to understand the risk factors so you can effectively reduce your likelihood of contracting this disease.

If you would like more information, or if you believe you may be suffering from PAD, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Zenith Health and Aesthetics. We are conveniently located in Memphis, TN, and our professionals would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!

What is Peripheral Arterial Disease?

In essence, PAD is a circulatory disease. It occurs when the blood flow is constricted due to narrowed arteries. That’s why you may experience pain when walking; the blood isn’t able to reach the areas it’s supposed to go. This leg pain is also known as claudication, and it is the main indicator for PAD.

Peripheral arterial disease can also occur when there are fatty deposits built up in your arteries. These deposits restrict blood flow, which affects your heart and your brain. It can also affect your legs, which causes pain.

Non-Medical Treatments for PAD

Some advisable steps you can take to treat PAD on your own include:

• Quitting the use of any tobacco products
• Exercising regularly
• Eating a healthy diet

If these lifestyle changes have little to no effect on your condition, then it may be time to consult with medical professionals to explore your treatment options.

Symptoms to Look out For

Simply looking for pain in the legs while walking isn’t the best way to spot PAD. There are a few more specific symptoms you can look out for to help you determine if it is time to seek medical help. If you have peripheral arterial disease, you may experience painful cramping that occurs in one or both of your legs after walking, running, or climbing stairs.

Leg numbness or weakness that has no discernable cause can also be a sign of PAD. Sore that won’t heal, hair loss on the feet and legs, as well as shiny skin on your legs can all indicate peripheral arterial disease.

Contact Us

This is simply a general overview of peripheral arterial disease and what to look for. For more comprehensive information, please visit Zenith Health and Aesthetics in Memphis, TN. We can provide you with more information about PAD as well as which treatments may be right for you. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!

Varicose veins are known as the big brother of spider veins. Like spider veins, they can be clearly seen and are aesthetically unappealing. Both types of disordered veins appear discolored and twisted, but that’s where the similarities end. At Zenith Health & Aesthetics in Memphis, TN, we value your health and aesthetic. Today, we answer one of your most commonly asked questions, when should I consider varicose vein treatment , and many others.

What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged twisted veins usually found near the surface of the skin, though can also be found deeper within the body. They most commonly develop in the ankles and legs. But they can appear on the face, hands, chest and other locations, as well. You may have them on one side of your body or the other or on both sides of your body.

Symptoms of Varicose Veins

Everyone experiences varicose veins differently. The universal symptom of this type of disordered vein is its appearance. Other extremely common symptoms include localized pain, discomfort, tingling, heaviness and swelling.

Unfortunately, the symptoms do not end there. Varicose veins can develop clots. When your varicose veins are deep within your body, they can develop clots and cause a condition known as deep vein thrombosis. If one of these clots breaks off from the vein, it can travel all the way to your lung. When a blood clot is implanted into one of your lungs, the condition is known as a pulmonary embolism. This is a potentially life-threatening condition.

When Should I Consider Varicose Vein Treatment?

If you notice varicose veins on your body, come in for an in-person consultation to determine the best varicose vein treatment for your needs. Depending on the cause, extent and severity of your varicose veins, you may try one or more at-home treatments before opting for a medical treatment or procedure. Here’s a general overview of a few of the most popular:

Weight Loss

If your varicose veins are caused by obesity, weight loss is the first line in defense against developing future varicose veins once your existing ones have been treated. Keep in mind that even a 10% reduction in excess body fat will make a drastic improvement in the quality of your life, including your health and happiness. If you need help to lose weight, consult a licensed nutritionist to help you get your diet in check. Diet accounts for 90% of weight loss.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is one of the most popular methods of varicose vein treatment because it is non-invasive and effective. It involves the injection of a sclerosant in either liquid or foam form. Foam is most often used to treat larger varicose veins.

Liquid sclerosants are composed of a saline (saltwater) solution. These are used for smaller varicose veins and for individuals who are allergic to both types of foam sclerosant. You should consider this type of varicose vein treatment if you are not pregnant and at-home treatments are ineffective.

What Can I Expect During This Treatment?

This non-invasive treatment requires no general anesthesia. The needle used is fine enough to not cause pain during injection or removal. However, lidocaine is included in the injection to numb the treatment area and prevent any discomfort.

What Results Can I Expect From Treatment?

The results of sclerotherapy can be seen within a few weeks of treatment for spider veins and smaller varicose veins. For larger varicose veins, you will experience immediate relief from physical symptoms, but the visual improvement may not be seen for two to four months. In 17% of cases, larger varicose veins will require a second treatment a month after the initial treatment.

Where Can Sclerotherapy Be Performed?

Sclerotherapy can be performed virtually anywhere you have varicose veins. Most often, it is used to treat varicose veins and spider veins in the face, particularly the sides of the nose, as well as the feet, ankles, calves and thighs.

What Is the Recovery Process Like?

The recovery process for sclerotherapy is minimal. For the first 24 hours, you should wear a compression garment. Other than that, you can return to most of your daily routine immediately.

What Aftercare Steps Are Necessary?

One of the reasons sclerotherapy is so popular is how few aftercare steps there are. To avoid affecting your body’s blood clotting process, avoid taking NSAIDs and aspirin for the first 24 hours after treatment. If you feel any discomfort, take Tylenol as directed on the package.

Avoid excessive heat for the first 48 hours after treatment. This means no vigorous exercise. It’s also important not to sunbathe, take hot baths or showers, try to unwind in a sauna or swim in a heated pool.

How Should I Prepare?

To prepare for sclerotherapy, do not take NSAIDs or aspirin for 48 hours before treatment. You should also avoid vitamins and herbal supplements which thin your blood. During your initial consultation, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of which medications and supplements to avoid.

Do not shave or apply lotion to the treatment site on the day of your treatment and let us know of any historic or current medical conditions, including active skin infections and a history of blood disorders.

Watch Your Diet

If you suffer from varicose veins, diet is the first method of varicose vein treatment. Excess venous blood pressure, which you can lower by drastically reducing your sodium intake, can form varicose veins. The easiest way to reduce sodium intake without reading the nutrition labels on everything you consume is to avoid processed foods and cook with fresh food, instead. Processed foods, and especially processed meats and fast foods, contain extremely high levels of sodium.

You should also reduce your consumption of bad cholesterol, reduce your sugar intake, drink more water and limit caffeine and alcohol consumption. As part of a healthy lifestyle, it is important to consume plenty of fiber, too. This fiber should come from natural sources like whole grains, vegetables and low-carb fruits.

Quit Smoking

It’s hard to stop smoking, but even reducing your tobacco intake gradually will greatly improve your varicose veins and overall quality of life. Nicotine is one of the hundreds of chemical compounds found in tobacco that elevates your blood pressure. This excess blood pressure can cause your veins to warp and damage the venous walls and valves responsible for healthy blood flow. This is another form of varicose vein treatment you should consider implementing immediately.

Wear Compression Garments

For immediate relief from varicose vein symptoms, wear compression garments, which can be purchased “over-the-counter” at your favorite local pharmacy. If you do not find relief from these low-pressure compression garments after a few months, come in for an initial consultation. We can determine the ideal pressure your compression garments and write you a prescription for the right garment.

When your varicose veins are in your legs, compression stockings or compression stocks are most often prescribed. When varicose veins affect your arms, a high-pressure sleeve will be prescribed. Compression garments are most often prescribed during pregnancy. This is because between the average venous blood volume increase of 40% and the hormonal changes that cause rapid weight gain in your lower abdomen, pregnancy is the most significant risk factor for varicose veins, second only to age.

Move More

Once again, moving more is a treatment for varicose veins that we strongly recommend implementing immediately. A sedentary lifestyle, whether that involves standing in place for excessive periods or sitting still excessively, is a very significant risk factor for varicose veins. There are innumerable health benefits associated with physical activity. One of them is improved circulation. The stronger your circulatory system, the easier it is for your veins to pump blood against the effects of gravity back to your heart.

Physical activity also strengthens the muscles surrounding your veins. This also supports your vein’s ability to circulate blood. If you have a sedentary job, set a quiet alarm for every 15 minutes and do squats or wall sits at your desk.

Every hour, you should get up and walk around a little. Whether this is getting another cup of water, using the restroom or filing paperwork you’ve been putting off, make sure you get up and walk for a minute. According to the American Heart Association and CDC, you should perform 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly for heart health and disease prevention.

Elevate Your Legs

If you have varicose veins caused by pregnancy, there is no need to consider sclerotherapy or invasive techniques like varicose vein stripping. What you can do is walk and swim regularly, watch your diet, stay hydrated, wear compression garments and elevate your legs above your heart.

If you do not have a bed that allows you to adjust the incline of your mattress, lie on your back and place a couple of throw pillows under your ankles. You should also elevate your legs above your heart if you will be sitting for an extended period of time. Implement this treatment for varicose veins as soon as you notice them.

Varicose Vein Stripping

Varicose vein stripping, also known as vein stripping with ablation, avulsion or ligation, is used as a last resort to treat varicose veins. It is performed under general anesthesia using a handheld ultrasound device to pinpoint the precise locations of the damaged valves. A duplex scan may also be ordered to determine the extent of the effect on blood flow.

You should consider this form of treatment for varicose veins if you have deep vein blood clots. Before your procedure, let us know of all over-the-counter and prescription medications you are taking. You may need to suspend the use of these drugs and supplements temporarily before and after treatment.

How Can I Prepare for This Procedure?

This procedure is performed under general anesthesia. You cannot drive within 24 hours of being under general anesthesia, so you must arrange for a friend or relative to drive you home. If your body does not respond well to general anesthesia and you are nervous about your procedure, you may be given spinal anesthesia and anti-anxiety medication.

You should also prepare to spend between two and four weeks in recovery. You will receive prescription narcotics to keep you comfortable. Expect to stay off your feet as much as possible for the first 72 to 96 hours post-op. This depends on how many veins were stripped and the locations of those veins.

Learn More Today

Do you suffer from varicose veins? Are you wondering if varicose vein treatment is right for you? Would you like to learn more about the best options for your unique situation? We’re here to help. To schedule your initial consultation, contact the professional vein experts at Zenith Health & Aesthetics in Memphis, TN today.

Have you noticed lately that unwanted lines and wrinkles are appearing on your skin? At Zenith Health & Aesthetics in Memphis, TN, we can address these issues with several potential treatments. One of these is a non-surgical, minimally invasive dermal injection called Juvederm.

Why Juvederm?

Why do people use these dermal injections? And why have they become so popular over the last decade? The answer is that while many people would love to experience the benefits of smoothing their facial wrinkles, not everyone wants to undergo a longer process such as a facelift or a chemical peel.

Beyond Botox

This is where facial fillers and dermal injections can be extremely beneficial. Dermal injections are highly localized and require a minimum of time and preparation when compared with facelift surgery. For this reason, many people initially look into getting Botox injections. However, after a few sessions, some patients have noticed that they develop a resistance to Botox that can sometimes render future treatments less effective.

What Juvederm Can Help

Juvederm works especially well in these cases and can provide the desired results if a patient finds that Botox has lost some of its usefulness. But even if you have never gotten Botox or any other dermal injection before, Juvederm can be particularly effective for treating several concerns:

• Wrinkles
• Lip lines
• Marionette lines
• Nasiolabial folds
• Crow’s feet
• Parenthesis lines
• Fuller cheeks

So how does it work? And who is a candidate for treatment?

What Is Juvederm?

Juvederm is a hyaluronic injectable gel dermal filler. It is based on hyaluronic acid, which is a naturally-occurring substance in your skin that adds volume and is critical in delivering nutrients that keep your skin young, soft, and full.

What Hyaluronic Acid Does

One of the major properties of hyaluronic acid is that it binds to water. This is especially useful for adding volume to the skin, as water is part of what is providing that extra fullness. This allows for the skin to retain its natural malleability, as opposed to a hard, artificial feel. Some have observed that this results in a smoother feel than other gel products.

Another advantage is that this water-binding process works very quickly. It allows patients to see visible results soon after treatment. As the injection starts to work with the water that already exists naturally in your skin, volume will increase and wrinkles and lines will begin to soften.

Is It Safe?

The FDA approved Juvederm on June 2, 2006, noting no serious adverse effects and declaring it safe for use. Over ten years later, it continues to be a popular treatment option among many patients because of its convenience and effectiveness, and the company has created a number of types that are specifically designed for certain areas.

Different Types: Which One Is Right for You?

There are a number of varieties available, and the right one is based on the specific needs and goals of the individual patient. Because not all skin works exactly the same way, some different approaches are needed, depending on the areas of use. Some patients are interested in plump lips, some in decreasing specific wrinkles, and some others may want to restore volume to their cheeks.

Vollure

Vollure is designed for folds and wrinkles and is ideal for people who are particularly interesting in smoothing out more pronounced lines on the face. Additionally, Vollure is long-lasting and typically continues to show good results for 18 months after treatment.

Voluma

Voluma is a filler specifically designed for the challenging task of restoring volume to cheeks. As we age, cheeks often lose their firmness and shape, but Volbella addresses this by working deep underneath the cheek’s surface. This allows patients to see continued results for up to two years after treatment.

Volbella

If you are looking to plump your lips, the answer is Volbella. This particular filler contains a local anesthetic as the lips can be particularly sensitive, and the treatment is more comfortable as a result. Volbella addresses lip lines, adds moisture, and lasts for a year after the treatment.

Ultra Plus

If you are more serious about getting some extreme results, Ultra Plus may be for you. Ultra Plus is usually used to address the most serious wrinkles that need a little extra contouring.

Are You a Good Candidate?

Almost anyone can be a candidate for treatment. As previously mentioned, it is an excellent choice for people who had other injections but did not achieve the desired results.

Will It Give You Allergies?

The substance itself is manufactured purely from non-animal ingredients and does not trigger allergic reactions. Because of this, there are very few people who should avoid it entirely, although it should be noted that it is not advised for women who are currently pregnant or lactating.

What Should Your Goals Be?

Typically, candidates want to achieve a more youthful look, due to lost volume in their face as a natural result of aging. This might include thinning skin, unwanted wrinkles, or a lack of plumpness in the lips or cheeks.

They will also have realistic expectations about what results can be achieved, and know that the best approach is to follow up with additional maintenance treatments at some point in the future. We also encourage a healthy outlook about the treatment. While amazing results continue to be achieved, it is also critical that patients focus on their health, and follow the suggested steps both before and after treatment sessions.

How to Prepare for a Treatment Session

The first part of the process is the initial consultation. Here, you will meet with a member of our staff and discuss your expectations and goals.

Meeting Our Staff

The consultation will establish what specific areas you want to treat, as well as your overall feelings about the process. We can answer any concerns or questions you may have and make sure that you have all the information you need in order to make you maximally comfortable.

Among other things, you will want to discuss any medications you are currently taking and any history of allergies or past medical issues.

Avoiding Aspirin

Mention any painkillers you may currently be taking, even if they are non-prescription, as some people find it is helpful to avoid aspirin-based products before the treatment. Those who take aspirin may be advised to discontinue use in the five days leading up to their injection appointment (or to find a different pain treatment instead).

Additional Information

During the consultation, you may also be given more information on how best to get ready in the days leading up to the treatment session. However, most of these steps are minor. Clients are often in and out the door in just about an hour.

What Should You Expect from a Treatment Session?

A treatment session is extremely quick, especially when compared to the many months (or years) that you can experience positive results. While many people who get dermal injections will report experiencing the benefits for one or two years, the actual session itself is very efficient.

A Speedy Process

From start to finish, the treatment process typically lasts less than an hour. Each treatment vial includes the local anesthetic Lidocaine, which maks the injections comfortable. In addition, the treatment itself only takes a few minutes to administer. Most visitors are able to resume most of their typical activities immediately after leaving our office.

Post-Treatment Information

After the injection, you will be given some information and suggestions on what to do in the days and weeks after the session. These will include tips on any activities or substances you should avoid, as well as a treatment plan for future maintenance.

In general, there is no real downtime after these treatments. The process is designed to be extremely quick, efficient, and low-impact so as not to interrupt your normal life.

What Should You Avoid After a Treatment Session?

As your body integrates the dermal injection, you want to make sure that you take care of yourself as best as you can. Most of the suggestions for what to do after treatment are designed to help make your recovery as fast and comfortable as possible.

Avoid Heat and Sun

It is recommended that our guests avoid too much heat after treatment. This would include saunas, extremely hot showers, tanning, or sunbathing, for example. Spending too much time in direct sunlight is also not advised.

Avoid Alcohol

For 24 hours following the treatment session, alcohol should also be avoided. The reason for this is that alcohol causes changes in the cardiovascular system and moves blood more quickly, which can potentially lead to discomfort.

Avoid Massage

We also advise against getting a massage of the treated area for roughly two weeks after treatment.

It is possible that our staff may have a few other suggestions after your session, but in general, you will be able to do everything that you normally do. The treatment is designed to avoid disrupting your normal activities.

What You Can Expect

After your session, the hyaluronic acid filler will quickly integrate with your skin, and the water-binding properties will add volume and bounce to the treated areas.

Fast Results

You will be able to see results almost immediately. Lips will be fuller and cheeks more shapely. The benefits of treating severe wrinkles can be especially noticeable. Despite these exceptional results, the ultimate aim of Juvederm is to give a natural look in each of these cases.

What Happens With the Hyaluronic Acid?

Because hyaluronic acid fillers provide a substance that is already naturally occurring in your skin, the risks are extremely low. They are biodegradable and will disperse over time. This means that if you don’t like the effect of the treatment, there is no agonizing process necessary to “remove” the filler. It will go away with time.

Maintaining Your Look

Most people prefer to get maintenance treatments in order to keep the amount of filler at a natural-looking level. For ideal long-term effects, most people report that the preference is to return within two years after the initial injection for a follow-up visit.

Our staff will provide all the information you need for your post-treatment options, including an estimate of what a good maintenance routine would be for your unique needs.

Schedule Your Personal Consultation Today

Facial wrinkles, marionette lines, and crow’s feet can all become more pronounced with time. But that doesn’t mean that you must live with them if you don’t want to. If you’re one of the many thousands of people who would like to soften these lines, and you also don’t want invasive surgery, then Juvederm may be your perfect solution. You can quickly restore a youthful look, and give yourself a boost of confidence as well.

To find out more about treatment, visit us at Zenith Health & Aesthetics in Memphis, TN. We will happily answer any further questions you may have about the Juvederm treatment process, and you can schedule your own personal consultation.