Valley Medical aesthetics by Erica ShEllEy photos GabriEllE Gallant
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s we step into winter, most Canadians are reluctant to send their summer clothes to the back of their closets. Many already look forward to taking them out again next year or for a tropical winter getaway. The first warm days of spring usually fill the streets with people wearing shorts, sandals and summer dresses.
For some, however, warm weather celebrations are tainted by a gnawing self-consciousness. About a third of adults are afflicted by some form of chronic venous disease (CVD) – from small spider veins to bulging varicose veins. Many who suffer from CVD feel a need to hide their legs. In many cases varicose veins can be extremely painful and can even result in leg ulcers.
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Valley Medical Aesthetics began with a focus on medical laser treatments for aesthetic improvements to the skin; however, the demand for venous disease treatments as well as cosmetic vein solutions quickly became obvious. Vascular surgeons Dr. Dion Davidson and Dr. Benjamin Heisler along with vascular radiologist Dr. Greg Butler realized that many of their patients would benefit from endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) as an option. EVLT is an ideal solution for many people because there is minimal or no scarring, no anaesthetic, minimal discomfort and a faster recovery time than traditional venous surgeries. The doctors use it as an alternative to or to supplement other treatments such as traditional surgery and sclerotherapy.
Patients who walk through the doors usually lead busy lives and would like to quickly resolve their discomfort. Wait times for vascular surgeons are increasing as emergent patients and surgeries take priority. Previously the wait time to be seen for CVD was over two years. The staff realized they needed to overhaul the process so that patients could be treated sooner. Now, ultrasound technicians can provide the necessary tests immediately prior to the patient’s consultation with the surgeon. Dr. Heisler or Davidson are able to recommend options for treatment based on the results of the ultrasound test. Any questions that arise concerning their options can be addressed and the patient is able to decide on a plan that makes the most sense for them. This