You Made the Call. Here Is Everything Else.
Your First Visit
If you have been living with heavy legs, swelling, or veins you have been meaning to have looked at, and you have finally made the call, this page is for you. Most patients have never seen a vascular specialist before, and questions about what to bring, what happens, and what to expect afterward are entirely normal. This page walks through all of it so that when you arrive, the only thing left to do is let the team take care of you.
Your Pre-Visit Checklist
Before You Arrive
What to Bring to Your Appointment
Coming prepared means less time on logistics and more time on what actually matters: understanding what is going on with your legs and what can be done about it. A few things to have ready:
- Bring a photo ID and your insurance card
- Bring a written list of your current medications, including any blood thinners such as warfarin, Eliquis, Xarelto, aspirin, or Plavix
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the legs, such as shorts or pants that can be rolled above the knee
- If you have been told you have other vascular concerns such as a prior imaging study or a referral note, bring those records along
- Notify the office in advance of any allergies, recent illness, or pregnancy
- Plan to arrive 15 to 20 minutes early to allow time for check-in and paperwork
- Fasting is not required; eat normally and stay well hydrated
A Few Extra Steps for Procedure Day
If a vein procedure is planned or expected at your visit, a few additional steps apply.
- Do not apply lotion, oils, or moisturizing cream to the legs on the day of the procedure
- Do not shave the leg being treated on the day of the procedure, as minor skin irritation can complicate injection sites
- Do not drink coffee or caffeinated beverages after 9:00 PM the evening before the procedure
- If you have been previously prescribed compression stockings, bring them or plan to wear them
- If you are currently on anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy, notify the office before your appointment, as blood thinner management is reviewed individually with Dr. Schmetterer and may affect the plan
- For RFA specifically: eat a light meal before the procedure and shower the morning of; do not apply any product to the treated leg except for EMLA topical anesthetic cream if provided in advance by the office
- Most vein procedures use only local anesthesia and patients routinely drive themselves; if you have any concerns about driving, the office can advise based on your specific plan
What Happens at Your First Appointment
Step by Step
Check-In, Consultation, and First Impressions
Arriving a few minutes early gives the front desk time to confirm your information and insurance before Dr. Schmetterer is ready for you. The team is there to answer any logistical questions from the moment you walk in.
The appointment begins with a conversation. Dr. Schmetterer reviews your symptoms, medical history, and concerns, and he listens before he recommends. There is no pressure to commit to any procedure at the first visit. The goal is understanding first.
Your Diagnostic Duplex Ultrasound
For most vein patients, a painless duplex ultrasound is performed in the office at the same visit. The practice’s two dedicated vascular ultrasound technicians perform the study, and Dr. Schmetterer reviews the findings with you before you leave. The ultrasound maps the venous system and identifies exactly which veins are failing, which is what guides the treatment plan.
Your Treatment Plan
Once the findings are reviewed, Dr. Schmetterer explains what he found, what options are available, and what he recommends, including which procedures fit your anatomy and why. Insurance coverage is discussed at this point, and the billing team follows up with a benefits verification before any procedure is scheduled.
Same-Day Treatment
For most vein patients, the consultation, ultrasound, and first procedure can happen during the same visit. If a procedure is recommended and you would like to proceed, the team walks you through exactly what to expect before anything begins. Nothing starts until you are ready and your questions are answered.
Before You Leave
Post-procedure instructions are reviewed in detail, a follow-up appointment is scheduled, and you leave knowing exactly what to do next and who to call if something comes up.
After Your Appointment
What to Expect Once You Leave
After Sclerotherapy — Asclera® and Varithena®
What’s normal: Mild bruising, redness, or darkening at the injection sites is expected, and small firm lumps along the treated vein are common and resolve over several weeks. Treated veins fade gradually over 8 to 12 weeks rather than disappearing immediately.
What to do: Wear compression as directed, walk regularly, and avoid sun exposure on treated areas, hot baths, and saunas. Avoid NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen; acetaminophen is appropriate for any discomfort.
When to call: Significant swelling, unusual pain, skin blistering, a firm cord under the skin, chest discomfort, visual changes, or any signs of a clotting event.
After Ablation and Adhesive Closure — RFA and VenaSeal™
What’s normal: Mild bruising, soreness along the treated vein, and a slight sensation of tightness in the leg are all expected. Most patients notice meaningful improvement in heaviness and swelling within one to two weeks.
What to do: Keep the compression dressing in place for 48 hours as instructed, walk daily, and attend your follow-up ultrasound. Avoid prolonged sitting or standing and hold off on vigorous exercise until cleared.
When to call: Increasing pain, significant swelling, warmth or redness spreading up the leg, unusual skin reaction at the access site, or fever.
For patients using the Nimbl® device or following a wound care protocol, specific instructions are reviewed in detail at your appointment. Full compression schedules and activity guidelines for all procedures are covered on the Compression and Post-Procedure Care page.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is my first appointment?
Most first visits run between 60 and 90 minutes, which allows time for the history, examination, and in most cases a diagnostic duplex ultrasound. If a procedure is performed the same day, plan for additional time. The office works to keep things moving without rushing the conversation.
Will the procedure hurt?
Most vein procedures are performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the treatment area so the procedure itself is largely painless. Some pressure may be felt during catheter placement for RFA or VenaSeal, and a brief sting accompanies each injection for sclerotherapy. Mild soreness or bruising in the days after treatment is normal and typically resolves within one to two weeks.
Can I drive myself home after a vein procedure?
Yes, in most cases. Most procedures use local anesthesia only, and patients routinely drive themselves home. If sedation is planned for any reason, the office will let you know in advance so you can arrange a ride.
What if I have a question or concern after I leave?
Call or text the office at 330-902-1135. The team is available Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and will help you determine whether what you are experiencing is a normal part of recovery or something that needs attention.
Do I need compression stockings, and where do I get them?
Yes. Compression is an essential part of recovery after most vein procedures. The office provides initial compression at the time of the procedure and will advise on the appropriate grade and duration based on your treatment. If you need additional stockings, the team can guide you on where to obtain them locally or online.
Ready when you are. If you have questions before your first visit or would like to know what your insurance covers ahead of time, the team is happy to walk you through it. Call or text 330-902-1135, Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, or book online at schmetterermd.com.