Dedicated Clinic for Venous Diseases

The Center for Advanced Vein Care in Hickory, NC, takes pride in being one of the leading care providers for venous diseases. Since 2001, our office has been offering personalized and minimally invasive treatment options for varicose and spider veins. Our team focuses on relieving pain and other symptoms, as well as improving the appearance of your legs.

We want you to know that help is available. Dr. Aaron Thompson Jr., MD, FACS, and his team are here to provide accessible and compassionate patient care in a safe and comfortable environment.

If you’re experiencing pain in your lower extremities, schedule an appointment with us. We’ll be more than happy to assist you in finding treatment options that work best for your specific needs.
For urgent vein care, kindly reach out to us through our phone number. Our lines are always open for on-call services.

“Typically, when a patient comes to see me, they are ready to be treated,” Dr. Aaron Thompson explained as he shared information about his practice. “Often, they have had varicose veins for several years, perhaps with symptoms, maybe not. They may be distressed because they haven’t been comfortable wearing shorts, or they’ve been told their legs don’t look normal.” Dr. Thompson’s private practice is The Center for Advanced Vein Care in Hickory. Venous disease treatment has come a long way in the last 20 years. Patients will feel better and look much better with today’s minimally invasive, advanced technologies that help patients enjoy activities without the pain and disfigurement of vein disorders, such as varicose and spider veins.

Dr. Thompson combines the knowledge he has gained through years of study and experience focused on surgery and treating diseases of the veins. He uses the most advanced technologies available to help each and every patient feel good about his or her body image and enjoy a life free of pain due to disorders of the venous system. With a professional medical team on hand in the Center, he employs specific vein treatment techniques and equipment to treat the various vein disorders he sees. A personalized treatment plan is recommended for each patient’s unique condition. Dr. Thompson has successfully treated thousands of patients suffering from disorders of the veins.

NOT YOUR FATHER’S VEIN TREATMENT

“Up until about 15 years ago, treatment for varicose veins consisted of vein stripping, which meant hospital admission and general anesthesia,” Dr. Thompson explained. “An incision was made in the ankle and in the groin, and a catheter was inserted up the entire length of the leg. The up-to-date, minimally invasive techniques that I use are virtually pain-free and are performed in my office. Typically, patients have little or no bruising, swelling, or pain. They walk in and walk out and can often return to work that day. I rarely pre- scribe anything stronger than over-the-counter medication like Tylenol or Advil.”

If you have severe varicose veins, you have increased chances of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT may cause sudden, severe leg swelling. It is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.

Spider veins are often primarily a cosmetic concern, but varicose veins can be painful, disfiguring and debilitating. Without treatment, they can become ulcerated and at risk for dangerous infection. Early, effective treatment, before complications occur, is recommended.

PREVENTION

“It’s hard to predict who will develop varicose veins,” Dr. Thompson said. “Risk factors include a family history of varicose veins; more women than men develop them and pregnancy can cause varicose veins to develop; and age–people over 50 tend to be more susceptible. Obese people and workers who spend long hours standing, like teachers, nurses, and flight attendants, are more predisposed to develop the condition.” Walking is a good activity for everyone, and it can help keep the calf muscles working properly and, hopefully, lessen the possibility of vein disorders. Compression stockings are worn for several weeks after treatment and may be recommended beyond that at various levels of use, such as while on your feet for long periods at work, or while shopping or on long car or plane rides.

Research has shown that venous disease costs Americans more than two million lost workdays and an annual expense of $1.4 billion for treatment. Without treatment, varicose veins will not go away, and more likely will progress and worsen over time. When this happens, such as in the case of severe varicose veins, the deep vein system may also become damaged and ineffective. Dr. Thompson offers periodic free screening with his recommendation for any further tests needed, and a treatment plan that will reduce or remove blemishes and bulging veins, improve your health and enhance your appearance.

A PROFESSIONAL TEAM

“One night I had an epiphany!” Dr. Thompson said with a smile. “I realized that patients were having to travel to Charlotte for vein treatment; there was no one performing these procedures here in the Hickory area. I knew I had to open this clinic.” As a general surgeon, Dr. Thompson had a lot of experience treating venous disease. He opened the vein center in 2001. His dedicated team of medical professionals is the heart of the practice. Together, they make certain that patients are seen quickly, treated with courtesy and respect, and experience satisfactory, effective health care.

Dr. Thompson earned his bachelor of arts at the University of Virginia and his doctor of medicine at the University of Virginia School of Medicine. He completed his internship and residency at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey.

If you have questions or concerns about varicose veins, spider veins, or symptoms you may be experiencing, call The Center for Advanced Vein Care. Taking care of your health earlier, not later, is always the best decision. Let Dr. Thomp- son and his team keep you healthy, comfortable and more attractive.