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Look and Feel Your Best At Any Age

Posted on May 3, 2012 by veinwellwp

Regardless of your age or what stage of life you’re in, it is important that you feel satisfied, healthy and confident. The way we look and how others perceive us is a very important factor in our overall well being.

Here are five ways the Vein & Wellness Center can help you look and feel your best:

Have A Healthy Lifestyle

There is no getting around it. A healthy lifestyle is the number one way that you can look and feel your best. It is important for men an women to get adequate sleep, maintain a well-balanced diet, and get regular exercise.

Stress is practically unavoidable, but if you don’t find ways to deal with it, it can take a serious toll on your appearance and physical health. Many people benefit from yoga, swimming, or other gentle exercise to relieve stress. Taking up a hobby is another way to deal with stress and have fun at the same time.

As we age, weight management can become a difficult struggle. If diet and exercise aren’t enough, a physician directed weight loss program may be helpful. Dr. Kelly O’Donnell of the Vein & Wellness Center in Kent Island offers physician supervised weight loss programs specifically designed to meet your needs and goals.

Get Healthy, Comfortable Legs

Vein disorders affect millions of Americans. The common misconception is that vein treatment procedures are complex and painful. Today, however, vein treatment is minimally invasive and virtually pain free.

Dr. O’Donnell offers a variety of treatment options for people suffering with varicose veins or venous insufficiencies. The best results are often obtained using combined therapies which may include laser therapy, radio-frequency (VNUS) closure procedures, phlebectomy, and sclerotherapy.

After undergoing varicose vein treatment, patients are often surprised by the immediate and dramatic relief they experience. Ongoing treatment can help patients achieve their cosmetic goals by getting rid of spider veins and varicose veins.

Seek Younger, Healthier Looking Skin

Our skin, particularly in the face, shows the most visible signs of aging. Exposure to the sun is the leading cause for wrinkles, age spots and other skin conditions. There are a range of cosmetic treatments to help you turn back the clock and reveal a younger, healthier you.

Laser Skin Rejuvenation – Laser skin treatments are highly effective for reversing the signs of aging. Dr. O’Donnell offers several types of treatment including a Microlaser Peel, CO2 Fractional Laser Therapy, and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL).

Botox & Dermal Fillers – Botox and dermal fillers are one of the easiest and most popular ways to erase fine lines and wrinkles. These injectable treatments restore volume and hydration to the face to produce younger, softer looking skin. Kelly Sullivan, R.N. of the Vein & Wellness Center has over two decades of experience in all facets of dermatology and medical cosmetic skin care services to help you achieve the best results.

Aesthetic Services – Facials, chemical peels, and microdermabrasion are great ways to improve the appearance of skin without having to undergo laser treatment. Aesthetician Kylie Westlund can help customize a treatment plan to target your specific skin type. We have a number of skin care products and peels that can help to minimize acne and acne scarring.

Don’t Forget About the Eyes

Your eyes are one of the first facial features someone will recognize. As we age, we lose fullness and volume in the eyelashes. This can make us look tired or less attractive. The Vein & Wellness Center is pleased to offer Latisse, the first and only FDA approve prescription treatment for insufficient eyelashes. In just 16 weeks, you can grow longer, darker, fuller eyelashes!

Maintain a Skin Care Routine

The skin is the body’s largest organ. It requires daily care and maintenance to keep it healthy and looking great. Using professional grade skin care products can help you achieve optimal results for your skin.

The Vein & Wellness Center aesthetician, Kylie Westlund, can help you choose cleansing and moisturizing products, sunscreen, and additional products formulated for your specific skin type. We feature the Skin Therapy and CosMedix lines of skin care products as well as Colorscience Pro mineral makeup.

One Last Thing…

If there was one more thing you could do to ensure that you look and feel your best, it would be to choose the right doctor. Dr. Kelly O’Donnell and the staff of the Vein & Wellness Center are highly trained in venous disorders and skin care therapies. Contact us for a consultation and visit our website for more information about our products and services.

Posted in Botox, Dermal Fillers, Facial Rejuvenation, Laser Resurfacing, Latisse, Professional Grade Skin Care Products, Spider Veins, Vein Treatment | Tagged Botox, Dermal Fillers, Dr. O'Donnell, Facial Rejuvention, Latisse, Professional Grade Skin Care Products, Smoother Face, Vein Treatment | Leave a comment

Varicose Veins and Pregnancy

Posted on March 2, 2012 by veinwellwp

It is not uncommon for women to become affected by varicose veins during pregnancy. The added pressure of weight gain and hormonal changes worsen venous disease. Many women will see spider veins and varicose veins appear when they become pregnant, and women who have a family history of varicose veins are more likely to experience the condition.

Spider Veins vs. Varicose Veins
Spider veins are tiny web-like veins that appear below the surface of the skin. Varicose veins are bulging veins that form particularly in the lower extremities.

Varicose Veins During Pregnancy
Varicose veins are made worse during pregnancy because of the pressure that is put on the lower venous system, causing an increase of pressure in the leg veins. Patients who suffer from venous insufficiencies will have valves that have become damaged, creating an improper flow of blood.

Common belief is that it is best to wait until all pregnancies are complete before seeking varicose vein treatment. However, patients can have significant improvement, immediate relief of symptoms, and better long term health by electing to have treatment when problems arise.

Varicose veins are a chronic and progressive condition, meaning they will continue and worsen with time if left untreated. With each pregnancy, a woman suffering from this condition can expect to have issues and if treatment is saved until after she is through having children, the disease could be more advanced and therefore, more complicated to treat.

Treatment for Varicose Veins
There are a number of procedures to treat varicose veins, but the preferred treatment is laser or radiofrequency (VNUS ) closure.

The VNUS closure procedure delivers radio-frequency energy to the affected veins to gently heat them, causing them to collapse and seal closed. This allows blood to be recirculated through the body via other, healthy veins.

Pregnant women who have varicose veins are encouraged to wear compression stockings during pregnancy, before and after varicose vein treatment, to prevent the condition from worsening. Other helpful therapy includes elevating feet when possible and to avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time.

About the Vein & Wellness Center
The Vein & Wellness Center is a comprehensive medical facility for the treatment of varicose veins, spider veins, and venous disorders. Led by board certified vein specialist Dr. Kelly O’Donnell, our facility offers a wide range of treatments and procedures that are quick, convenient, and virtually pain free.

The Vein & Wellness Center is conveniently located just outside of Annapolis on Maryland’s Eastern Shore on Kent Island. In addition to comprehensive vein treatments, we offer facial rejuvenation procedures and weight loss programs designed to help you look and feel your best.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. O’Donnell and find out what varicose vein treatments are right for you.

Posted in Spider Veins, Varicose Veins, Varicose Veins and Pregnancy | Tagged Dr. O'Donnell, Spider Veins, Varicose Veins and Pregnancy | Leave a comment

Restless Legs? Could be Venous Reflux Disease

Posted on February 13, 2012 by veinwellwp

An estimated 10% of the adult population in the United States suffers from restless leg syndrome (RLS), a condition that causes the uncontrollable urge to move their legs to relieve agitating sensations.

For an unknown reason, RLS affects more women than men. This condition causes significant disturbances to a person’s daily routine and often negatively impacts their sleep patterns as symptoms are made worse when lying down.

Varicose Veins and Restless Leg Syndrome
Studies show that some patients suffering from RLS are also affected by varicose veins or venous reflux disease. These patients when treated for venous insufficiencies noticed a dramatic improvement or elimination of restless leg symptoms.

Varicose Vein Treatment
Treatment for venous reflux disease is quick, easy, and virtually painless. Dr. O’Donnell of the Vein & Wellness Center is a board certified vein specialist using the latest techniques and technology in the treatment of varicose veins and venous insufficiencies.

The preferred therapy is endovascular closure which utilizes laser or radio-frequency energy to seal off diseased veins, recirculating blood through other, healthy veins in the legs. Microphlebectomy and sclerotherapy are often used in combination with the closure procedures to optimize resuts.

Say Good-bye to Restless Legs
If you are suffering with restless leg syndrome, you owe it to yourself to schedule a consultation with Dr. O’Donnell to be evaluated for venous insufficiencies. Imagine getting a full night’s sleep without the aid of expensive prescriptions.

The Vein & Wellness Center is conveniently located on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, on Kent Island, just over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge from Annapolis. Contact us today!

Posted in Restless Legs, Varicose Veins, Venous Reflux Disease, VNUS Closure Procedure | Tagged Dr. Kelly O'Donnell, Endovascular Closure, Restless Leg Treatment, Varicose Veins | Leave a comment

Recapture Your Youthful Glow with Laser Resurfacing

Posted on January 24, 2012 by veinwellwp

Microdermabrasion and chemical peels are both very effective in removing the superfical skin layers on the face. As we age, the skin cells turn over more slowly, and we are left with more dead skin cells that result in a dulll appearance. Microdermabrasion removes the dead cells mechanically and the effect is immediate. Chemical peels are applied in the office, and the skin sloughs a few days later. The strength of the peel is tailored to skin type and desired result.
Microlaser peel is accomplished with a laser, and depth is adjustable depending on the patients needs and desired effect. A conservative treatment would be equivalent to 10-15 microdermabrasions. It is a great way to remove sun damaged skin and age spots, and smooths the skin tone and texture.

Profractional laser technology uses a computerized system to deliver micro-damage to a small portion of the skin, and the depth of penetration into the dermis is adjustable. The microscopic hole punctures are in a grid-like pattern and collagen regeneration is stimulated to repair the micro-damage. Reduction is fine lines, plumping of the skin and youthful glow are noted and continue to improve over 6 months to a year.

Full surface laser resurfacing is also available and can effectively remove deeper wrinkles including the “smoker’s lines” around the lips. The deeper the treatment, the longer the “social down time”, including swelling, redness and peeling.
Most laser skin care procedures are painless. The deeper treatments require pretreatment with topical anethetic and are tolerated very well. Facial consults are complimentary ; an individualized treatment plan will be created and can be adjusted for any budget.

Posted in Facial Rejuvenation, Laser Resurfacing, Microdermabrasion | Tagged Chemical peels, Facial Rejuvention, Laser Resurfacing, Microdermabrasion | Leave a comment

Facial Rejuvenation with Botox and Dermal Fillers

Posted on January 11, 2012 by veinwellwp

Botox is one of the most popular cosmetic injectable products on the market today. The effects of aging are unavoidable, but a more youthful appearance is easily and safely accomplished with Botox injections. This FDA approved substance relaxes the muscles that produce the “11″ scorn lines between the eyebrows, the crow’s feet that form with squinting and smiling around the eyes, and the horizontal lines in the forehead. The injections are painless and often reduce tension headaches in patients who suffer. The effects are noticed within a day or two after injection and last for 3-4 months.

The combination of Botox and dermal filler injections is referred to as the ” liquid facelift”. The volume under the skin in the face lessens as we age and produces hollowing around the eyes, the paretheses lines around the nose and mouth, and the cheek sagging commonly called jowling. The volume can be repaced with a variety of dermal fillers. Injection above the eyebrows produces a browlift effect. The apple appearance of the cheeks is easily restored with injection of fillers into the area of volume loss iin the cheeks, and this also helps to reduce jowling. The jaw line is commonly smoothed with fillers too.The effect is immediate and can last up to one year. The combination of Botox and dermal fillers is very effective method to reduce the signs of aging, and Botox enhances the duration of the fillers. Some dermal fillers also stimulate collagen regeneration which also enhances youthful appearance.

Posted in Botox, Dermal Fillers, Facial Rejuvenation | Tagged Botox, Crow's Feet, Dermal Fillers, Facial Rejuvention, Liquid Facelift, Smoother Face, Wrinkles | Leave a comment

Treating Varicose Veins and Venous Reflux with Radio-frequency

Posted on January 9, 2012 by veinwellwp

Radio-frequency (RF) ablation, is one of the gold standards in modern medicine for treating varicose veins and venous reflux. Dr. O’Donnell utilizes VNUS technology which is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure that offers exceptional results with virtually no downtime.

What is Venous Reflux Disease?

Venous reflux disease is a progressive disease that is caused by insufficiencies in the venous system in the lower extremities. Healthy leg veins aid in the flow of blood, recirculating it through the body, back to the heart. In a patient with venous reflux disease, valves in the veins are damaged, preventing proper blood flow. Overtime, these veins become damaged leading to varicose veins, pain or swelling in the legs, feelings of heaviness and skin ulcers.

Diagnosing Venous Reflux Disease?

Only an experienced doctor can diagnose venous reflux disease. Dr. O’Donnell is a board certified vein specialist with an extensive background in providing pain-free solutions for patients suffering with venous reflux disease and other vein conditions. First, a venous map is created using a venous duplex ultrasound. This paints a clear picture for Dr. O’Donnell of the source of the problem, allowing for an appropriate diagnosis and specialized treatment plan.

About the VNUS Closure® Procedure

The VNUS Closure® procedure is performed in the doctor’s office. Using an ultrasound, a tiny catheter, powered by radio-frequency energy is placed into the affected vein through a small opening in the skin.

The radio-frequency energy delivers heat to the vein wall, causing it to shrink and seal closed. Once the diseased vein is closed, blood is recirculated through the body by other health veins.

After the procedure, the insertion site is covered with a bandaid and compression stocking are usually recommended to provide additional healing. Dr. O’Donnell will give specific instruction for post-op care. Most patients can resume normal activity the same day as their procedure.

Benefits of VNUS Closure® Procedure

Fast and effective relieve of symptoms
In-office procedure
Virtually painless
Quick return to normal activities
Great cosmetic outcomes with little to no scarring, bruising or swelling
Most procedures covered by health insurance

Treatment for Venous Reflux at the Vein & Wellness Center

It is important to remember that the type of therapy for your condition will be chosen by Dr. O’Donnell based on your medical history, specific symptoms and condition. Dr. O’Donnell takes the most conservative approach possible to managing varicose veins and venous reflux disease with the individual needs and goals of the patient in mind.

Contact our office to schedule a consultation with board certified vein specialist, Dr. Kelly O’Donnell and find out if the VNUS Closure® procedure is right for you.

Posted in Radio-frequency ablation, Varicose Veins, Venous Reflux Disease, VNUS Closure Procedure | Leave a comment

Are You Suffering From Superficial Venus Reflux Disease?

Posted on January 9, 2012 by veinwellwp

If you have discomfort or swelling in the legs and/or varicose veins, you may be suffering from superficial venous reflux disease.

An estimated 25 million men and women in the United States suffer from this condition, also known as venous insufficiency, which is often characterized by aching, burning, cramping and itching, causing pain, fatigue and restlessness in the legs. Venous insufficiency may not always be accompanied by varicose veins and some patients may experience skin changes or skin ulcers.

Vein Health Self Assessment
1. Do you have Varicose Veins? Varicose veins are large, bulging veins, rather than spider veins which are thin, branching veins beneath the skin’s surface.

2. Is there a family history of varicose veins or venous reflux?

3.Have you ever been treated for vein problems?

4. Do you stand for long periods of time?

5. Do you frequently lift heavy objects?

6. Have you had multiple pregnancies?

7. Do you experience any of the following symptoms in your legs, ankles or feet?
Pain, aching or cramping
Burning or itching of the skin
Swelling in the legs, ankles or feet
Feeling of heaviness in the legs
Skin discolorations or changes in skin texture
Open sores or ulcers, particularly around the ankle
Restless legs

Answering yes to any of the questions above could indicate that you are at risk for or may be experiencing venous reflux disease. Contact Dr. Kelly O’Donnell at the Vein & Wellness Center for a consultation and diagnosis.

Treatment for Venous Reflux Disease

The gold standard for the treatment of varicose veins and venous reflux disease is Endovenous Laser (EVL) or Radio-frequency (RF) endovascular closure as opposed to vein stripping, an older technique. The modern treatment for venous reflux is virtually painless, minimally invasive and completed in-office. Normal activity is often resumed the same day.

Dr. O’Donnell offers a range of treatment options and procedures including laser and radio-frequency therapy, depending on the specific patient. Learn More about Varicose Vein Treatments.

“Best Doctor For Varicose Veins”
Dr. O’Donnell and the Vein & Wellness Center were recognized by What’s Up Magazine as Top Doc for Varicose Veins. The Vein & Wellness center is conveniently located off Route 50, just east of Annapolis on Kent Island on the Eastern Shore in Maryland. Get Directions

Posted in Restless Legs, Varicose Veins, Vein Health Self Assessment, Venous Reflux Disease | Leave a comment

Meet the Doctor – Kelly O’Donnell, M.D.

Posted on September 8, 2011 by veinwellwp

Vein and Wellness Center is led by Kelly O’Donnell, M.D., a board certified vein specialist with an extensive medical background whose focus is on providing pain-free solutions and ensuring the comfort of her patients.

Dr. O’Donnell earned her undergraduate degree in microbiology from the University of California, Los Angeles and pursued extended molecular genetics research at the University of California, Los Angeles and University of California, Berkeley before returning to Maryland to attain her medical degree. Dr. O’Donnell graduated from the University of Maryland School of Medicine in 1990, completed her internship in general surgery at the University Hospitals of Cleveland, and her residency training was in the Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Her career for the next decade was in cardiovascular and critical care anesthesia at Prince George’s Hospital Center and Washington Hospital Center.

In 2008, Dr. O’Donnell shifted her focus to practicing as a full-time vein care specialist. In 2009, she received her Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT) certification followed by her Registered Physician of Vascular Interpretation (RPVI) certification and then completed her board certification in phlebology from the American Board of Phlebology. Less than 1% of physicians in the U.S. practicing phlebology have earned this distinction. She has performed over 1500 venous ablation procedures for venous insufficiency and has specific interest in the treatment of spider veins with laser treatment and sclerotherapy.

Vein & Wellness Center is conveniently located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore on Kent Island. Easily accessible from Route 50, Vein & Wellness Center is located just 17 miles from Annapolis and 25 miles from Easton. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with board certified vein specialist, Kelly O’Donnell, MD.

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Announcing Aesthetic Institute at Vein & Wellness Center

Posted on September 8, 2011 by veinwellwp

Discover a more youthful you at Aesthetic Institute! We offer professional skin care services under the direction of Kelly O’Donnell, M.D. A full line of skin care available, including popular dermal fillers, peels, laser treatments, and facials. We feature the Skin Fitness, Cosmetix and Color Science lines of beauty products and make-up. Call or come in for an appointment. Conveniently located on the eastern shore in Chester, Maryland, just across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge from Annapolis.

Aesthetic Institute is a division of Vein & Wellness Center, the Eastern Shore’s most comprehensive vein treatment facility. A variety of vein treatment services are offered, including removal of spider veins and varicose veins. We serve your skin care needs from head to toe.

We are pleased to have Kelly Sullivan, R.N. as a member of our team. She is a graduate of the American Institute of Intradermal Cosmetics, the first and largest facility in the United States devoted exclusively to the training of permanent cosmetic professionals. With over two decades experience in all aspects of dermatology and medical cosmetic skin care services, Kelly can help you achieve amazing results and teach you about skin care and skin rejuvenation.

We offer free skin consultations, please contact us today to learn more and get started on the pathway to a healthier, more youthful appearance.

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

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The Eastern Shore's Top Doc for Varicose Veins

The Eastern Shore’s Best Place For Laser and Cosmetic Skin Care Procedures by the readers of the Shore Update!