Do your legs feel swollen, heavy, or achy, especially after standing for long periods? Have you noticed varicose veins, skin discoloration, or changes around your ankles? Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) is a common but progressive vein concern that can worsen over time without proper treatment.
At Espinoza Vein Institute in Lexington, SC, Dr. Paul Espinoza and Dr. Jeffrey Mollé specialize exclusively in diagnosing and treating vein disease. Our medical doctors are dedicated to the study of venous disorders and provide dedicated to venous disorders, Dr. Espinoza provides experienced, physician-led care designed to relieve symptoms and protect your long-term vein health.
What Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?
Chronic Venous Insufficiency occurs when the valves in your leg veins stop working properly. These valves are responsible for helping blood flow back to your heart. When they weaken or fail, blood can pool in the lower legs.
Over time, this increased pressure can lead to:
- Leg swelling
- Aching or throbbing
- Heaviness or fatigue
- Varicose veins
- Skin discoloration
- Thickened or hardened skin
- Slow-healing sores near the ankles
CVI is not just a cosmetic issue. It is a medical condition that requires proper evaluation and treatment.
What Causes CVI?
Several factors can increase your risk of developing Chronic Venous Insufficiency, including:
- Family history of vein disease
- Pregnancy
- Prolonged standing or sitting
- Obesity
- Aging
- Previous blood clots
Because CVI is progressive, early diagnosis can help prevent more serious complications.
How Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency Diagnosed?
At Espinoza Vein Institute, diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and physical exam. A physician performs a specialized ultrasound to evaluate how well your veins are functioning.
Dr. Espinoza is a Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT) and both Dr. Espinoza and Dr. Mollé are Registered Phlebology Sonographer (RPhS), giving them advanced expertise in ultrasound imaging. This allows for accurate identification of venous reflux and other underlying problems.
Treatment Options for CVI
Treatment depends on the severity of your condition. In many cases, minimally invasive procedures can effectively close diseased veins and improve circulation.
Options may include:
- Endovenous ablation
- VenaSeal
- ClariVein
- Varithena
- Sclerotherapy
- Microsurgery (microphlebectomy)
These in-office treatments are designed to target the source of the problem, not just the visible symptoms. Most require little downtime and allow you to return to normal activities quickly.
What Happens If CVI Is Left Untreated?
Without treatment, Chronic Venous Insufficiency can worsen over time. Persistent swelling and pressure may lead to:
- Skin thickening or darkening
- Chronic inflammation
- Venous ulcers
- Increased discomfort
Early intervention can help protect your skin, improve circulation, and prevent complications.
Experience Matters in Vein Care
When managing a progressive condition like chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), experience and precision make a difference.
At Espinoza Vein Institute, you benefit from:
- Over two decades of dedicated experience in venous disease
- Physicians with 25–30+ years of medical and surgical experience
- Physician-only care – all evaluations and procedures performed by medical doctors
- Advanced ultrasound-guided diagnosis for accuracy and targeted treatment
- A wait policy that respects your time
- Transparent, ethical billing practices
- Relationship-based care focused on trust and long-term outcomes
All physicians at Espinoza Vein Institute are trained in a consistent, physician-led model of care, ensuring that every patient receives the same standard of diagnostic accuracy, treatment precision, and clinical oversight.
Improve Circulation and Protect Your Leg Health with CVI Care in Lexington, SC
Chronic Venous Insufficiency is treatable, and early care can make a significant difference in your comfort and long-term health. You don’t have to live with constant swelling, aching, or skin changes.
At Espinoza Vein Institute in Lexington, SC, we take time to understand your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan focused on lasting relief. Contact us by calling (803) 626-9075 to take the next step toward healthier, more comfortable legs near Columbia, SC.
