- Arthritis
- Medical Weight LossLipedema is a loose connective tissue disease that causes disproportionate subcutaneous fat accumulation on the extremities. As a result of the increased subcutaneous tissue accumulation, lipedema is often confused with obesity by both physicians and patients. Poor awareness and limited diagnosis of lipedema contribute to the confusion of lipedema with obesity and can lead to decreased body image acceptance. Patients with lipedema may have anorexia nervosa, an eating disorder characterized by a distortion of body image, incorrect self-identification of being overweight, restricted eating behavior, and a relentless pursuit of weight loss. Case Report: A young woman with disproportionate fat accumulation on the lower half of her body self-identified as having obesity. She developed restrictive eating behavior and became obsessed with weight loss, resulting in anorexia nervosa. Her disproportionate subcutaneous tissue persisted despite losing weight to reach a nadir BMI of 15 kg/m2. After a decade-long struggle, her eating disorder resolved, and she maintained a healthy weight and BMI of 21.5 kg/m2, but disproportionate fat remained in her lower body. She experienced increasing leg tenderness, pain, and easy bruising and was diagnosed with lipedema. Conclusions: Lack of recognition of lipedema by medical professionals and the public as a weight loss-resistant disease can affect body image acceptance. Lipedema was mistaken for obesity by the young woman in this case and likely played a role in her development of an eating disorder. Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, are not rare and may be more common in women with lipedema.
- Sleep DisordersRestless leg syndrome (RLS) is considered a sleep disorder. Venous insufficiency is a circulatory disorder. The cause of RLS is unknown but it appears to have multiple causes. Some cases are associated with iron deficiency, peripheral neuropathy, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurological disorders. However, it is clear that some RLS is caused by venous insufficiency. Recent medical research shows that 22% of patients with RLS also have venous insufficiency. In addition, the treatment of venous insufficiency can cure the symptoms of RLS. In fact, in patient with RLS and venous insufficiency, 98% had relief of their symptoms of RLS by treating their venous insufficiency and 80% of patients the relief was long term [> 2ys].
- Male InfertilityAlthough phlebologists are well-trained in treating all types of veins, when it comes to a varicocele, it is best left in the hands of a urologist, who specializes in male infertility. Some of my patients found temporary relief by icing the area and wearing tight bicycle neoprene shorts. This however, is just a temporary treatment and surgery may be indicated especially if it is painful or there is concern about future fertility.
- Emergency CareVaricose veins may also cause bleeding. This bleeding can be difficult to control and may require emergency room (ER) or hospital treatment.
- Constipation
- ElectrocardiogramFor endovenous thermal ablation of the saphenous veins, tumescent lidocaine anesthesia is often used. Unfortunately, information is sparse on the pharmacokinetics of lidocaine absorption and its maximum safe dose. The aim of this study was to evaluate plasma concentration of lidocaine on 12 lead electrocardiograms (ECGs) and symptoms over time after the administration of tumescent lidocaine during endovenous thermal ablation procedures in healthy volunteers.
- Female Infertility
- ObstetricsEssentially “YES,” it is the same principle and even the same equipment. It requires special software and a different probe than the one used in Obstetrics to be vein-specific.
- Pregnancy
- Labor and DeliveryYes, it is absolutely possible to have these procedures done while trying to get pregnant. All procedures are done using only local anesthetic, and so they can be done at any time. There is no need to wait until you are completely done with all childbirth to seek treatment. For one thing, you might not be done having kids for years, and you should not have to suffer all that time. If you are pregnant, it is best to wait until after you deliver to perform any procedure.
- EndoscopyOur new technology continues to benefit patients by the use of EVLT and RFA to treat veins. EVLT is a non-invasive laser treatment that has surpassed manual endoscopy and painful vein ablation as the treatment of choice for vein disease. We also reap the benefits of advances in laser medicine by offering comfortable, state-of-the-art Laser Hair Removal, near-infrared skin tightening using a laser, minimally-invasive cosmetic procedures, and laser-assisted liposuction. To learn more about these, visit the tabs at the top of the page.
- Diabetes Care
- Endocrinology
- Thyroid
- UltrasoundWe are a medical practice that incorporates advanced and innovative medical technology into a elegant, relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Located in O’Fallon, MO, just minutes from St. Louis County and just past the new outlet malls in the Valley, our Vein and Laser Lipo Clinic treats under-appreciated vein disease. Vein disease treatment starts with a comprehensive evaluation by ultrasound of the venous circulation in your lower extremities. Our vein and laser lipo clinic in St. Louis is the only practice in the area that accepts and is credentialed with all of the insurance carriers in the region.
- MRII am scheduled for an MRI with contrast (by injection) for a hamstring tear and lesion, this will be done 10 days after I have Asclera Sclerotherapy injections in the same leg (thigh and calf). Is there any conflict with these 2 treatments & agents?
- RadiologyBoard certification in a specialty that relates to veins such as interventional radiology, general or vascular surgery as well as Board certification in phlebology indicates at least some degree of proficiency. You should pay attention to your comfort level in the office, and value a clean and orderly office.
- Interventional Radiology
- Pinched NerveWhat you describe may be a neurological problem like a pinched nerve, it could also be related to venous symptoms. I would consider seeing a doctor about your symptoms, however, you could certainly try a compression stocking to see if it helps.
- Orthopedic SurgeryYou should wear the stocking as ordered. The purpose of the stocking is to improve the venous return and prevents clots from forming. One of the major complications of orthopedic surgery is deep vein thrombosis and it can occur in either leg.
- Vascular SurgeryAlthough sclerotherapy may be performed by any type of physician, you will likely experience the best results with someone who is both highly experienced and a specialist in treating venous disease, and in the use of sclerotherapy specifically. Look for someone who is a vein specialist, with years of experience, board certified in phlebology, vascular surgery, or vascular medicine, and one whose practice is devoted to treating veins, as well as one who has multiple treatment options available depending on the patient’s underlying issues.
- HysterectomyA 41-year-old woman noticed increased fat in her legs since age 12. Her weight and leg size increased until age 21, when she reached a maximum weight of 165 kg, and underwent a Roux-En-Y gastric bypass. Over 12 months, she lost 74.8 kg. Her trunk significantly reduced in weight, but her legs did not. Fifteen years later, she became progressively weaker and swollen over her entire body during recovery from hysterectomy surgery. Laboratory test results showed hypoalbuminemia (2.0 g/dL), lymphopenia, and hypolipoproteinemia. She was diagnosed with protein and calorie malnutrition with marked gut edema requiring prolonged parenteral nutrition. After restoring normal protein, her health returned and her pitting edema resolved, but her extremities remained enlarged. She was subsequently diagnosed with lipedema.
- BotoxDr. Wright performs state-of-the-art non-invasive and minimally invasive cosmetic procedures using the latest in laser and cosmetic technology. We achieve dramatic results without drastic measures with Tumescent Liposuction under local anesthesia, Botox, Restylane, Radiesse, and Perlane injections, painless Laser Hair Removal, Skin Tightening procedures, and Fractional Laser Resurfacing treatments. If you’re looking for the best vein treatment specialist laser vein center in St. Louis, call us today!
- LiposuctionLipedema is a loose connective tissue disease characterized by disproportionate subcutaneous adipose tissue hypertrophy in the extremities. There is evidence of impaired lymphatic function in women with lipedema at all stages without signs of trophic skin changes associated with hereditary or acquired lymphedema. A modification of suction lipectomy is used to treat lipedema tissue and can reduce pain, limb size, and limb swelling and reduce the need for compression in women with lipedema. Studies have shown that modified liposuction can improve quality of life and mobility. There are no reports of lymphatic injury after suction lipectomy in patients with lipedema in PubMed-indexed journals.
- Breast AugmentationWomen who have undergone breast augmentation will often notice blue veins on the chest becoming more prominent post-procedure. The reasons for this development are varied but most closely linked to treatment trauma. Patients who elect to have silicone or saline breast implants placed may see chest veins become more visible as skin is stretched tightly over new contours, making vessels much more prominent. Similarly, it is not uncommon for veins near the surface of the skin to have an adverse reaction to physical trauma. Veins may respond negatively to a completely successful breast augmentation in the same way they would to any type of physical damage by becoming enlarged and hardening. Both of these effects will inevitably lead to a more prominent vein appearance on the chest. While the hardening of the veins will eventually disappear, the enlargement of these vessels is generally a permanent condition.
- Breast ReductionBreast Reduction Volume: It depends on the ratio of glandular tissue to fat in the breast. The more fat the greater the reduction. Most women can expect a 50% decrease in breast size and weight.
- Breast LiftPatients who wish to avoid the invasive process of a surgical mastopexy or breast lift will be pleased with the non-invasive simplicity of breast liposuction. Where invasive surgeries require tissue wedging along with nipple-freeing and re-suturing, breast liposuction reduces the chances of scarring or sensation loss and greatly reduces recovery time.
- Body ContouringDr. Thomas Wright, Laser Lipo and Vein Center’s medical director uses only the most advanced liposuction and body contouring procedures to help you achieve your goals. These procedures include tumescent liposuction and laser-assisted liposuction. Furthermore, Dr. Wright is a highly skilled and experienced physician who is a board certified liposuction physician. He obtained his liposuction skills by training with Dr. Jeffrey Klein, the inventor of tumescent liposuction.
- Laser Resurfacing
- Cosmetic SurgeryWe are pleased to provide patient financing for Cosmetic Surgery procedures through United Medical Credit. You can get more information on their website at United Medical Credit. United Medical Credit offers affordable monthly payments, competitive interest rates, multiple financing plans to choose from and many more! They work with multiple lenders to offer various medical loan options to our patients. United Medical Credit can finance the large balances but will also finance small surgeries.
- Bariatric SurgeryLipedema is a loose connective tissue disease predominantly in women identified by increased nodular and fibrotic adipose tissue on the buttocks, hips, and limbs that develops at times of hormone, weight, and shape change, including puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Lipedema tissue may be very painful and can severely impair mobility. Non-lipedema obesity, lymphedema, venous disease, and hypermobile joints are comorbidities. Lipedema tissue is difficult to reduce through diet, exercise, or bariatric surgery.
- Skin CancerSpider veins do not lead to skin cancer. Spider veins are one sign of venous insufficiency. Venous insufficiency can lead to leg ulcers, however spider veins themselves do not turn into leg ulcers.
- Dermatology
- UlcerCompression can help relieve symptoms of aching legs, heaviness, tiredness, and itching brought on by varicose veins. Compression stockings can’t prevent varicose veins from developing, or make the varicose veins that have developed go away; however, not only the stockings provide symptom relief, but also, with more advanced vein problems like venous ulcers, are crucial for ulcer healing and preventing recurrence. Medical grade support stockings are important for treatment of superficial and deep phlebitis DVT. They have even been shown to relieve the burning and itching symptoms spider veins often cause. That is why vein specialists like Dr. Wright almost always recommend support stockings for their patients.
- EczemaFact: Varicose veins are a medical issue. Vein disease is frequently painful and interferes with enjoyment of life and work. Veins can swell and hurt, burn or itch. Legs may also feel very heavy.If not treated, vein disease progresses to conditions including eczema, pigmentation, skin ulcerations and bleeding, and leaves patients at risk for Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism.
- LesionsYes, laser light therapy works very well on vascular or pigmented type lesions, depending on the underlying cause of the birthmark. You should realize however, that treatment may require multiple treatment sessions, spaced over months, to fully resolve the lesion.
- MicrodermabrasionWas referred to Dr. Wright’s office for microdermabrasion. Had a very good experience and highly recommend Felicia as your esthetician.
- Burns
- Shoulder Pain
- Neck Pain
- Back Pain