Out of over 20 vein treatments, Paul said, only one led to noticeable discomfort the next day, which was easily relieved with a call to the office.
“Because I had such extensive vein problems, they had to do a lot of procedures on both legs,” he said. “Dr. Doubek and Dr. Janssen were very concerned that I was comfortable, but the pain control was very good.
In his many visits to the office, Paul said, he also appreciated the warmth and helpfulness of the Fox Valley Plastic Surgery staff.
“I sort of met just about everybody on the staff. They’re all very nice, and they get to know who you are; they say hi and know your name and all that. They really put you at ease,” Paul said. He particularly got to know Sue, the vascular sonographer, who was there “for every procedure.”
Though Paul admits it was difficult to cut back on his training while receiving the treatments, he said that today the cramping and swelling that used to sabotage his runs have disappeared. And as a medical professional himself, he’s grateful that the vein treatments at FVPS were able to address his underlying vein issues, not simply their superficial appearance.
“I thought it was just a cosmetic thing, but it’s not, really, there’s more extensive disease,” he said. “I think people need to understand that if there’s varicose veins you can see, there’s probably veins deeper causing a problem.”
Asked whether he has advice for people considering similar vein treatments, Paul answered quickly and surely:
“Do it sooner, rather than later.”