Dr. Fearon’s passion for educating the medical community about venous disease has not gone unnoticed. His hard work and dedication to the field has earned him a well-deserved spot in the American Vein & Lymphatic Society’s FVLD Supporter Stories series.

In the article, Dr. Fearon’s contributions to the American Vein & Lymphatic Society are highlighted, and his efforts to create preceptorships for medical residents are commended. Through his work, Dr. Fearon has improved the lives of countless individuals who suffer from venous disease, and his passion for his field is evident in everything that he does.

An Early Vein Specialist

When Dr. Fearon began his medical career, he split his time between family medicine and treating vein conditions. He was hesitant to rely solely on the latter as a source of income. However, as more and more patients came to him seeking treatment for their venous issues, he realized that this newfound specialty was proving to be not only profitable but also fulfilling.

The timing was fortuitous; Dr. Fearon had jumped onto the phlebology bandwagon just as it was gaining recognition from the American Medical Association. By embracing this field wholeheartedly and becoming certified, he earned the respect and trust of his peers, making his transition from family doctor to vein specialist a smooth one.

A Focus on Education

As the article highlights, education is often considered a crucial component in the medical field. For over a decade, Dr. Fearon has been dedicated to educating primary care and specialists in vein treatment to build his practice and the community. With a focus on providing knowledge to those on the front lines of medicine, he believes there is a gap in residency programs that he seeks to fill.

In Dr. Fearon’s experience, these programs are not aware of important information that he has gathered over his years of experience. To give back to the field that has benefited him greatly, he has created preceptorships for medical residents. To help those who shared his initial hesitancy, Dr. Fearon enthusiastically shares his knowledge with others in the field.

Giving Back to the Vein Treatment Community

Dr. Fearon is an exemplary figure, who truly understands the importance of giving back to the community. Through his numerous donations to the Foundation for Venous and Lymphatic Disease, he has demonstrated his commitment to educating and supporting the next generation of healthcare professionals.

As Dr. Fearon mentions in the article, when you are passionate about something, it shows in your actions and inspires others. By sharing his knowledge and resources with those who need it the most, not only is he making a positive impact on their lives, but he is also creating a ripple effect that will benefit the entire community. It is truly inspiring to see someone like Dr. Fearon recognize the power he has to make a difference and actively work towards achieving it.

Spider veins, also known as telangiectasias, are a common cosmetic concern that can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. These intricate, web-like veins may appear on the legs, face, or other parts of the body, often causing discomfort and self-consciousness. At Summit Skin & Vein Care, our medical experts have worked and educated thousands of patients on the causes, signs/symptoms, and available treatment options for spider veins.

Causes of Spider Veins

Spider veins are primarily caused by the dilation of small blood vessels beneath the skin’s surface. A combination of genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, and lifestyle factors can contribute to the development of these unsightly veins. These include, but are not limited to:

• Heredity: Genetics play a significant role in the development of spider veins. If your parents or grandparents had them, you might be more prone to developing them as well.
• Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly during puberty, pregnancy, menopause, and the use of hormonal contraceptives, can weaken blood vessel walls and increase the likelihood of spider veins forming.
• Age: As we age, the natural wear and tear on blood vessels can lead to their weakening and subsequent formation of spider veins.
• Prolonged Standing or Sitting: Occupations or activities that require prolonged periods of standing or sitting can impede blood circulation and contribute to the development of spider veins.
• Obesity: Excess body weight can put additional pressure on veins, leading to weakened blood vessel walls and the appearance of spider veins.

Signs and Symptoms of Spider Veins

Spider veins are characterized by their appearance as small, thin, red, blue, or purple lines on the skin’s surface, and they may branch out like a spider’s web, hence the name. While often considered a cosmetic concern, spider veins can also cause symptoms such as:

• Burning or Itching: Skin irritation, burning sensations, or itching can occur around the spider veins.
• Restless Legs: Restless legs syndrome, a condition characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, may be more prevalent in those with spider veins.
• Pain or Discomfort: Some individuals experience aching, throbbing, or a feeling of heaviness in the areas affected by spider veins.

Treatment Options for Spider Veins

At Summit Skin & Vein Care, we provide effective treatment options to address spider veins and improve both their appearance and associated symptoms:

• Sclerotherapy: This minimally invasive procedure involves injecting a special solution directly into the affected veins, causing them to collapse and fade over time. It is one of the most common treatments for spider veins.
• Laser Vein Therapy Nd:YAG™: Laser treatments use focused light energy to target and gradually fade spider veins.

Visit Summit Skin & Vein Care Today!

Spider veins may be a common cosmetic concern, but they don’t have to be a source of discomfort or embarrassment. Visit Summit Skin & Vein Care in Lee’s Summit today to discuss our effective treatment options available to help you regain confidence and find relief from the symptoms associated with spider veins. Call or visit today for your FREE vein screening!

At Summit Skin & Vein Care, our team treats people who struggle with varicose veins. We understand varicose veins are common and yet it is an often misunderstood condition that affects millions of people worldwide. These twisted, swollen veins that appear just beneath the surface of the skin can cause discomfort, pain, and aesthetic concerns. Fortunately, at Summit Skin & Vein Care, we have innovative treatment options that provide patients with effective and minimally invasive solutions to manage varicose veins. Our team of experts provide medically accurate information that educates patients on what varicose veins are, their common symptoms, and the treatment options available.

What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, bulging veins that usually occur in the legs and feet. They develop when the valves within the veins fail to function properly, causing blood to flow backward and pool, leading to vein enlargement. This can result in twisted, rope-like veins that may be blue, purple, or red in color. While varicose veins are often a cosmetic concern, they can also lead to various symptoms and complications.

Common Symptoms of Varicose Veins

• Twisted and swollen veins that are visible just beneath the skin’s surface.
• Aching, throbbing, or cramping sensations in the legs, especially after prolonged standing or sitting.
• A feeling of heaviness or tiredness in the legs, especially at the end of the day.
• Swelling in the legs and ankles, often worsened by prolonged periods of sitting or standing.
• Itchy, dry, or discolored skin around the affected veins, and in some cases, skin ulcers or sores.

Advanced Treatment Options: EVLA and EVCA

Summit Skin & Vein Care offers cutting edge treatment options like Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) and Endovenous Chemical Ablation (EVCA) for varicose veins.

Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA):

EVLA is a minimally invasive procedure that uses laser energy to treat varicose veins. During the procedure, a thin fiber-optic laser is inserted into the affected vein through a small incision. The laser energy heats and seals the vein, causing it to collapse and gradually fade away. EVLA is performed under local anesthesia and typically requires minimal downtime. It is highly effective and has a lower risk of complications.

Endovenous Chemical Ablation (EVCA):

EVCA, is another minimally invasive treatment option for varicose veins. In this procedure, a special medication (sclerosant) is injected directly into the affected vein using a thin needle. The medication irritates the vein’s lining, causing it to collapse and eventually fade from view. Similar to Laser Ablation, EVCA is performed under local anesthesia and allows for a relatively quick recovery.

Choosing the Right Treatment Option

In most cases, varicose vein treatment is covered by insurance. It is a common misconception that treatment options varicose veins are categorized as “cosmetic”, however it is actually a medical that requires treatment, thus being recognized by insurance policies and available for coverage. The choice between EVLA and EVCA depends on various factors, including the severity of the varicose veins, the patient’s medical history, and the physician’s recommendation. These advanced treatments have revolutionized the way varicose veins are managed, offering patients a less invasive and more effective solution compared to traditional surgical procedures.

Summit Skin & Vein Care Clinic in Lee’s Summit

Varicose veins can be more than just a cosmetic concern – they can impact your daily life and well-being. If you’re experiencing discomfort, pain, or unsightly veins, it’s important to come see us at Summit Skin & Vein Care in Lee’s Summit for your FREE vein scanning. Advanced treatment options like Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) and Endovenous Chemical Ablation (EVCA) provide hope for those seeking effective, minimally invasive solutions. Don’t hesitate to reach out today and take the first step towards healthier skin.

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological condition that affects millions of people globally. It can cause uncomfortable sensations in the legs, leading to an uncontrollable urge to move them. While the exact cause of RLS is unknown, it has been linked to several underlying conditions, including venous insufficiency and varicose veins. At Summit Skin and Vein Care, we can help educate you on RLS and how it is related to varicose veins, a common condition that affects the veins in the legs.

Symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome

Restless Leg Syndrome causes discomfort in the legs that may be described as itchy, tingly, or prickly. RLS is usually worse at night, making it difficult to sleep, which can result in exhaustion and stress. Other symptoms of RLS include a constant desire to move the legs, cramps in the legs, or jerking.

Varicose Veins: How They are Related to RLS

Varicose veins are a result of veins becoming swollen, twisted, and enlarged. This condition happens when the valves of the veins fail to function correctly. When the valves are not functioning properly, blood pools in the veins rather than moving efficiently back to the heart. This causes a sense of tiredness in the legs, itchiness, and discomfort and can also cause restless leg syndrome. Research indicates that RLS is more common in people with varicose veins.

Treatment and Prevention of Restless Leg Syndrome and Varicose Veins

There are several ways to treat Restless Leg Syndrome and varicose veins.

Sclerotherapy

This procedure involves injecting a solution directly into the affected veins, causing them to close and eventually fade away. Sclerotherapy is effective for varicose veins and spider veins.

Endovenous Laser Ablation

Laser therapy, such as Endovenous Laser Ablation is also used to treat varicose veins and spider veins. It involves directing laser energy onto the affected veins, causing them to fade away over time.

Endovenous Chemical Ablation Therapy

Endovenous chemical ablation is a minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins that uses a chemical solution to destroy the vein.

At Summit Skin and Vein Care, we know that Restless Leg Syndrome can cause intense discomfort and affect your daily life. Visit Summit Skin and Vein Care if you experience any of the symptoms to receive proper diagnosis and treatment. Take advantage of our offer for a FREE color duplex ultrasound scan, where our specialists will provide valuable insights and discuss your personalized spider vein treatment options. Get the relief you deserve with Summit Skin and Vein Care today!

Chronic Venous Insufficiency can occur when the veins in your legs don’t allow blood to flow back up to your heart. The valves in your veins normally make sure that the blood flows smoothly, but when these valves aren’t functioning as designed, the blood can also flow backwards causing blood to collect in your legs. At Summit Skin and Vein Care, our team of experts can identify any risk of vein disease and provide top-tier vein care procedures to eliminate the problem which caused the spider veins or varicose veins. Here are some of the causes of chronic venous insufficiency and symptoms to look out for.

Causes of Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Chronic Venous Insufficiency is an issue that stems from lack of blood flow to the heart. Oftentimes this can occur in individuals who are overweight, pregnant, or have a family history of this problem. Chronic Venous Insufficiency can also be a result of a previous leg injury, surgery or previous blood clots. Due to sitting or standing for long periods of time, high blood pressure can also occur in the legs, leading to venous insufficiency. Lastly, studies have shown that smoking can also be a contributing factor to causing chronic venous insufficiency.

Symptoms of Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Chronic Venous Insufficiency can happen to anyone, so it is important to know what to look for. Common symptoms of Chronic Venous Insufficiency include:

• Swelling in your legs/ankles
• Tight feeling in your calves
• Itchy/painful legs
• Pain while you are walking that stops when you rest
• Brown-colored skin that is often near the ankles
• Varicose veins
• Leg Ulcers
• Restless Legs Syndrome
• Recurring Charley Horse

Symptoms of Chronic Venous Insufficiency can often be mistaken for other health conditions, so it is important to talk with your healthcare provider if you notice any of the above listed signs. Summit Skin & Vein Care offers the best vein care services available in the Midwest. Contact us today for a FREE consultation or visit us in Lee’s Summit if you have any questions or concerns about chronic venous insufficiency!

Summit Skin & Vein Care is a vein treatment clinic located in Lee’s Summit, MO that offers a variety of services, including: Varicose Vein Treatment, Spider Vein Treatment, Treatment for Cosmetic Concerns, and evaluations of vein health. For 18 years, Summit Skin & Vein Care has been the top provider for vein treatments. Dedicated to ensuring the best customer service available, Summit Skin & Vein Care is excited to welcome Dr. Joe Baker and Nurse Practitioner Paige Medlin to the team of professionals providing care at the Lee’s Summit location.

Dr. Joseph Baker, DO

Summit Skin & Vein Care prides itself on the combined knowledge and experience of its care providers, and ensuring that our clients are given accurate information, along with the best vein and skin care services available. That is why we are so happy to announce that Dr. Joseph Baker has joined our team at the Lee’s Summit location. Dr. Baker comes to Summit Skin & Vein after 6 years with Vein Clinics of America based out of Overland Park, KS. Dr. Baker has been in family practice medicine for over 25 years and over 10 years of surgical practice. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Venous & Lymphatic Medicine. He is also Board Certified in Family Medicine. Prior to joining the Summit Skin and Vein Care Team, he was a vein specialist in Overland Park, Kansas.

Paige Medlin RN, FNP-C

We are excited to welcome Paige Medlin to the team as a nurse practitioner. Paige attended Rockhurst University where she graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing, and then graduated from Research College of Nursing with her Masters of Science in Nursing, in 2022.
Paige worked as an ER nurse for 4 years before joining Summit Skin and Vein Care as a practitioner.

Our Mission:

We are very excited to have Dr. Baker and Paige Medlin join our team. Their added experience will enhance our clinic’s ability to continue offering the best vein care services available in the Midwest. At Summit Skin & Vein Care, we are dedicated to spreading medically accurate information regarding vein and skin care. Our team has performed over 18,000 Endovenous Laser Ablations and over 22,500 Endovenous Chemical Ablations using the latest state-of-the-art equipment. You can rest assured that you are in good hands when you receive treatment of a vein disease at our vein clinic. If you’re looking for more information, feel free to contact us and schedule your FREE Vein Screening in Lee’s Summit!

Do you make New Year’s resolutions but find it difficult to follow through? Every year rings in the hope of a “New Year, New Me”! Now’s the time to invest in yourself and get rid of those varicose veins that you keep putting off dealing with. Connect with Summit Skin & Vein Care in the new year and let us educate you on your condition, explain what varicose veins are, what causes them, and the treatments that are available to help you tackle 2023 varicose vein-free.

What are varicose veins and what causes them to form?

Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veins that often occur on the legs. They are caused by the backup of blood in the veins, which can occur due to pregnancy, weight gain, or even trauma. Some medical conditions, such as diabetes and collagen disorders, can also increase the risk of developing varicose veins. In most cases, varicose veins are not painful or serious. However, they can sometimes lead to blood clots or ulcers. If you have varicose veins, contact the experts at Summit Skin & Vein Care for treatment options to improve their appearance.

How can you tell if you have varicose veins and what are the symptoms?

Varicose veins are usually easy to spot and feel. They are often large, bulging veins that appear twisted and can be seen just beneath the surface of the skin. They are most commonly found on the legs, but can also occur in other parts of the body. Symptoms of varicose veins may include heavy and achy legs, restless legs, burning and itching, swelling of the legs and feet, cramping of the legs, and discoloration of the skin at the ankle and feet. In more severe cases, varicose veins can lead to open sores or ulcers on the lower legs. If you think you may have varicose veins, reach out to Summit Skin and Vein Care for an appointment and take the first step toward relief from symptoms. If left untreated, varicose veins can become worse over time or in some rare cases, may lead to more serious health complications.

What surgical treatment options are available for varicose veins?

Endovenous ablation is a minimally invasive treatment option for varicose veins that delivers thermal energy to the vein wall, causing it to collapse and close. There are two types of endovenous ablation: Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) and Endovenous Chemical Ablation (EVCA).

Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) is a type of endovenous ablation that uses lasers to deliver the thermal energy, while endovenous chemical ablation (EVCA) uses chemicals. Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) is considered the preferred method because it is less painful and has a shorter recovery time than endovenous chemical ablation (EVCA). Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) is also less likely to cause skin discoloration. However, EVCA is often used on larger veins that are not suitable for EVLA.

The recovery time for both procedures is typically short, with most people able to return to their normal activities within a few days. Endovenous ablation should only be performed by a trained and experienced physician. Summit Skin & Vein Care has years of experience as well as the cutting edge technology for successfully performing both EVLA and EVCA treatments.

Choose Summit Skin & Vein Care to Help You Start 2023 Free of Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are a common problem and can cause pain, swelling, and other symptoms. If you think you might have varicose veins, it’s important to seek medical attention. At Summit Skin & Vein Care our specialists will be happy to discuss the best option for you. Contact us today to set up a free color duplex ultrasound scan!