Veins

Leaky leg veins (chronic venous insufficiency)

CVI occurs when leg veins fail to return blood efficiently to the heart, causing swelling, aching, varicose veins, skin discoloration, and venous ulcers.

Book a vein consultation Call (305) 249-5666

Why it happens

Leg veins have small one-way valves that keep blood moving up toward the heart. When those valves leak, blood falls back down and pools in the lower leg. Doctors call this venous reflux.

The extra pressure is what causes the heaviness, the swelling by evening, and — over years — the skin changes around the ankle.

What it feels like

Heaviness or aching in the legs, worse after standing
Swelling that worsens by evening
Visible varicose veins
Brown or leathery skin, or itching, around the ankles
A sore near the ankle that is slow to heal (a venous ulcer)

Sudden swelling in one leg with pain, warmth, or redness can be a blood clot and needs urgent evaluation. With chest pain or shortness of breath, call 911.

How we check your veins

For venous disease, duplex ultrasound maps reflux and clots. These studies are quick, painless, and done in-office. Most patients get the vein-reflux study during the same visit when it is needed.

Because leg swelling can also come from the heart or kidneys, the visit includes a physical exam and, where needed, basic bloodwork.

Treatment options

Compression and medical management

Graduated compression and lifestyle guidance, coordinated with any heart or kidney care you already receive.

Thermal vein closure

Radiofrequency or laser energy closes the diseased vein from the inside through a tiny catheter.

Non-thermal vein closure

Medical adhesive or foam closes veins without heat — an option where thermal ablation is less suitable.

What treatment is for

We offer modern catheter-based treatments — including thermal and non-thermal vein closure — that are performed at our surgery center and require minimal downtime. Treatment is aimed at improving comfort, mobility, and the appearance of the legs, and at lowering the risk of long-term complications such as venous ulcers.

Related pages: swollen legs or ankles · varicose veins.

Medicare and most insurance plans accepted — we confirm your coverage before the visit. See the plans we accept.

Questions about leaky leg veins

What is chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)?

CVI occurs when leg veins fail to return blood efficiently to the heart, causing swelling, aching, varicose veins, skin discoloration, and venous ulcers. We offer modern catheter-based treatments — including thermal and non-thermal vein closure — that are performed at our surgery center and require minimal downtime.

Is vein treatment covered by insurance?

Most major insurance plans, including Medicare, cover vein evaluations and treatments when there are symptoms and documented reflux on ultrasound. Our team verifies benefits before scheduling.

How long does vein closure take to work?

Most patients notice reduced heaviness and swelling within a few weeks. Skin healing and discoloration improvements can take several months.

Heavy, swollen legs are worth a look.

Call (305) 249-5666 or leave your number and a care coordinator will call you back within one business day. We verify your insurance before your visit. Most new patients are seen within 5–7 business days.

Book a vein consultation