Dr. Jerome Potozkin is recognized as a dermatology leader in the East Bay area. Educated at New York University School of Medicine, Dr. Potozkin is a member of the American Board of Dermatology and a clinical instructor at University of California, San Francisco Medical Center.
Watch Dr. Jerome Potozkin perform a procedure on ABC News using the VISIA® system.
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Walnut Creek Dermatologist Donates $18,000 to Katrina Victims
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"When I was told that a doctor donated $25,000 to the program, I was really happy"
Vein Removal Treatment in the East Bay with Dr. Monica Brar
Enlarged, congested veins that appear near the surface of the skin are called spider veins, or telangiectasias. Located deeper below the skin's surface, varicose veins are similar in appearance to spider veins, but are usually larger and distended. Although individuals with varicose and spider veins may be troubled by their conspicuous blue, purple, or red color, vein disorders are not just cosmetic problems. In addition to pain, burning, and itching, spider and varicose veins can cause cramping, inflammation, and, in some cases, eczema, ulceration, or blood clots. For individuals who are troubled by varicose or spider veins, Dr. Monica Brar offers comprehensive evaluations and provides a number of options for vein removal treatment at the East Bay Vein Center in Walnut Creek.
Your Initial Evaluation
When seeking treatment for varicose and spider veins, it is important to see a vein specialist that will thoroughly evaluate the condition to determine the most suitable course of vein removal treatment. At East Bay Vein Center, Dr. Brar conducts an initial 30-minute consultation during which she reviews the patient’s medical history and examines the area affected by varicose or spider veins. During the second visit, she performs an ultrasound on the affected area in order to identify any hidden causes of the vein disorder. After completing the ultrasound, Dr. Brar explains the vein removal treatment options that will be most effective and answers any questions.
Vein Treatment Options
In the past, vein removal treatment was performed under general anesthesia. Since these methods involved large incisions, scars were inevitable and healing time was lengthy. Modern medical innovations, however, have provided a number of less-invasive alternatives designed to reduce the symptoms of spider and varicose veins.
CoolTouch® CTEV™ Endovenous Laser
Performed in the comfort of our office in Walnut Creek, treatment with the CoolTouch® CTEV™ endovenous laser is quick, easy, and involves little to no downtime. Dr. Brar begins the procedure by making a tiny incision through which she inserts a special fiber. As the fiber is heated by the CoolTouch® CTEV™ laser, the affected vein seals shut and soon vanishes from sight.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a simple treatment for varicose and spider veins in which Dr. Brar injects a sclerosing solution into the affected vein. Over time, the solution causes the vein to collapse and become less visible. After undergoing sclerotherapy vein treatment, patients of our East Bay practice are advised to wear compression stockings and walk around to promote circulation.
Ultrasound-guided Sclerotherapy
Vein disorders that originate deep beneath the surface of the skin may be difficult to treat with traditional sclerotherapy vein treatment. However, ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy can often be used in these cases with favorable results. Using ultrasound equipment, Dr. Brar is able to view a map of the underlying veins. This map can then be used to deliver sclerosing solution accurately to the source of the spider or varicose veins.
Ambulatory Phlebectomy
For patients with varicose or spider veins that are too large to be treated with laser therapy or sclerotherapy, ambulatory phlebectomy, a form of vein removal treatment performed at East Bay Vein Center, may be a viable alternative. During the procedure, tiny incisions are made through which the varicose veins are removed. Because the incisions are small, sutures are typically unnecessary.
Compression Stockings
Often recommended for use after vein treatment, compression stockings may be prescribed to treat varicose and spider veins in some patients. By squeezing the veins, compression stockings help to prevent blood from flowing in the wrong direction and weakening the veins.
Contact Dr. Monica Brar
If you are experiencing discomfort or are dissatisfied with your appearance because of varicose or spider veins, contact Dr. Monica Brar, a respected vein specialist who offers a range of vein removal treatment options at the East Bay Vein Center in Walnut Creek.
Simple Tips for Good Vein Health
- Exercise at least 5 days per week for 30 minutes. Any exercise in which you are moving your legs, such as walking, swimming, and elliptical, helps promote healthy circulation.
- Elevate your legs above the level of your heart for 10 minutes or more each day to help relieve leg vein-related discomfort and swelling.
- If overweight, consider a weight-loss program.
- Avoid wearing high-heeled shoes.
- Wear compression stockings, which promote the flow of blood back towards the heart.
