In brief: Chronic venous insufficiency means the leg veins cannot return blood to the heart efficiently, because the vein valves are weakened. Blood pools in the legs, causing heaviness, swelling, aching and varicose veins, and — if untreated — skin changes and hard-to-heal venous ulcers. It is different from arterial disease. Modern, minimally invasive treatments (laser/EVLA, radiofrequency, foam) are highly effective. Prof. Dr. Yusuf Kalko provides this treatment in Turkey (Istanbul) and welcomes international and Gulf patients.
What Is Venous Insufficiency?
In healthy leg veins, one-way valves keep blood moving upward toward the heart. When these valves fail, blood flows backward (reflux) and pools in the lower legs. This chronic condition is the underlying cause of most varicose veins and related leg complaints.
Symptoms
- Heaviness, tiredness and aching in the legs, worse at the end of the day
- Swelling (edema), night cramps and itching
- Visible varicose or spider veins
- Ankle skin discoloration (brown), eczema and hardening in advanced cases
Causes and Risk Factors
- Genetic predisposition
- Prolonged standing
- Pregnancy and hormonal changes
- Excess weight and older age
- Previous deep vein thrombosis
How It Differs from Arterial Disease
Venous insufficiency is a blood-return problem, while arterial disease is a blood-supply problem. As shown above, venous symptoms (heaviness, swelling) worsen with standing and ease with leg elevation, whereas arterial pain comes on walking and eases with rest. Telling them apart guides correct treatment.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made by clinical examination and colour Doppler ultrasound, which shows valve reflux and maps the affected veins — guiding a precise, vein-specific treatment plan.
Treatment Options
- Endovenous laser (EVLA) and radiofrequency ablation — closing the diseased vein from inside
- Foam sclerotherapy for smaller veins
- Surgery in selected cases
- Compression stockings as supportive therapy
When Is a Procedure Needed?
Treatment is considered when there are persistent symptoms (heaviness, swelling, pain), skin changes, recurrent superficial clots (thrombophlebitis), bleeding, or a venous ulcer. Mild cases may be managed with lifestyle measures and compression first.
Recovery After Treatment
Modern endovenous methods are minimally invasive and usually allow a quick return to daily life, often the same day. Compression stockings are used for a period as advised, and walking is encouraged. Your doctor will explain the recovery plan and follow-up.
Venous Ulcers
Long-standing venous insufficiency can lead to venous ulcers around the ankle — open wounds that are slow to heal. Treating the underlying vein reflux, alongside wound care and compression, is key to healing and to preventing recurrence.
In Istanbul
Prof. Dr. Yusuf Kalko evaluates venous insufficiency with colour Doppler at his clinic in Istanbul (Beylikdüzü) and plans the most suitable, minimally invasive treatment. Contact us for an appointment. International patients are welcome.
Related Pages
Why Choose Turkey (Istanbul) for Your Treatment?
- Over 30 years of experience in cardiovascular and vascular surgery.
- Advanced minimally invasive and hybrid techniques.
- English- and Arabic-speaking support for international and Gulf patients.
- Competitive costs and easy access to Istanbul from the Gulf, Europe and beyond.
- Pre-travel remote assessment, then treatment and appointment planning.
How to Start from Abroad (Remote Consultation)
You can send your medical reports and scan images via WhatsApp for an initial assessment before traveling. We then plan your treatment and appointment in Istanbul, Turkey, and support international patients at every step.
📋 This page is part of our Vascular Diseases guide. See the overview for other vascular conditions, symptoms and treatments in Turkey (Istanbul).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is venous insufficiency the same as varicose veins?
Varicose veins are usually a visible sign of underlying venous insufficiency. Treating the reflux addresses the root cause, not only the appearance.
Is the laser treatment painful?
Modern endovenous methods are minimally invasive and generally allow a quick recovery with little discomfort.
Will the veins come back after treatment?
The treated vein is closed and symptoms improve, but venous disease is chronic, so new veins can appear over time; follow-up and lifestyle measures reduce recurrence.
Do venous ulcers heal?
Yes, with proper treatment of the underlying vein reflux plus wound care and compression — though they may recur if the venous problem is not treated.
Do you treat international patients?
Yes. We welcome international and Gulf patients in Turkey (Istanbul), with English- and Arabic-speaking support throughout assessment and treatment.
How can I book an appointment from abroad?
Via WhatsApp: send your inquiry and medical reports, and we will arrange your appointment and explain the steps before and after arriving in Istanbul.
How much does treatment cost?
Cost depends on your condition and the treatment plan. For an estimate, contact us via WhatsApp with your medical reports attached.
Can I have a consultation before traveling?
Yes. An initial remote assessment can be made based on your reports and scans before you come to Turkey.