Heavy, aching legs at the end of the day. Bulging varicose veins that won’t fade. Swollen ankles, restless nights, and skin that itches or changes color. These everyday frustrations are often dismissed as a normal part of aging, but they may signal something more serious: venous reflux disease. Also known as venous insufficiency, this progressive vascular condition affects millions of Americans and, when left untreated, can lead to chronic pain, skin damage, and even open ulcers. The good news is that modern, minimally invasive treatments can restore healthy circulation and dramatically improve how your legs look and feel.
At Chesapeake Vein Center & MedSpa, your care is led by Dr. Surya Challa, MD — a board-certified general surgeon, diplomate of the American Board of Phlebology, ABVLM-certified physician, and Registered Phlebology Sonographer (RPhS). Dr. Challa trained at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn and completed a research fellowship at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Recognized in the “Guide to America’s Top Surgeons” and Strathmore’s “Who’s Who Worldwide Honors 2008,” has personally evaluated and treated thousands of patients across Chesapeake and Virginia Beach since 2007. Unlike medical spas merely “overseen” by an absent medical director, Dr. Challa is the practicing provider — every diagnosis and treatment plan is shaped by his direct clinical expertise.
What Is Venous Reflux Disease?
Venous reflux disease is a medical condition that affects blood circulation in the lower extremities. The tiny one-way valves inside your leg veins normally force blood back up toward the heart. When these valves no longer function, blood pools in the legs and the veins become distended. The greater saphenous vein — a large superficial vein running from the foot to the groin — is the principal vessel of the superficial venous system and the most common site of reflux. When its valves fail, the resulting backflow distends smaller surface veins, producing the bulging, twisted appearance known as varicose veins.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Venous insufficiency symptoms range from purely cosmetic to severely disruptive. Watch for any combination of the following:
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Leg pain, aching, tired or weak legs, especially after long periods of standing or sitting
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Varicose veins and visible spider veins
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Burning or itching of the skin
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Swollen legs and/or swollen ankles (edema)
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Color and texture changes of the skin
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Open wounds (skin ulcers)
How the Disease Progresses
Edema and swollen ankles are the next progressive states of venous insufficiency, occurring as venous hypertension forces fluid into the lymphatic and interstitial spaces. This causes leg or ankle swelling and changes in skin pigmentation, often accompanied by severe discomfort in the calf and ankle. Venous ulcers indicate the most advanced stage, typically involving both the deep and superficial vein systems. Extreme reflux alters the microcirculation of the skin and eventually leads to ulceration — making early diagnosis critical.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Patients with cosmetic-only concerns may be evaluated with a physical examination, while those experiencing additional symptoms undergo an in-depth duplex ultrasound study to map vein function. Treatment is highly individualized and may include radiofrequency ablation, sclerotherapy, microphlebectomy, or medical-grade compression therapy. Radiofrequency ablation of the greater saphenous vein is among the most effective options for restoring healthy circulation and diminishing varicose veins.
Why Choose Chesapeake Vein Center & MedSpa?
Since 2007, patients across Hampton Roads have trusted Dr. Challa and our experienced clinical team to deliver compassionate, results-driven vein care. As a member of the American College of Phlebology and the Medical Society of Virginia, Dr. Challa brings advanced surgical judgment to every consultation. We offer state-of-the-art, minimally invasive procedures performed in-office — so you can be diagnosed, treated, and cared for under one roof by a team that knows your name and your history.
Ready to put leg pain behind you? Contact Chesapeake Vein Center & MedSpa today at 757-819-7633to schedule your consultation with Dr. Surya Challa and take the first step toward healthier, more comfortable legs.
