Free Online Consultation or Comprehensive Vein Assessment – What's the Difference?

Free Online Consultation or Comprehensive Vein Assessment – What’s the Difference?

At VeinCare Cornwall, I offer two ways for patients to discuss their vein problems with me: a free 20-minute online consultation and a comprehensive face-to-face consultation with duplex ultrasound at the Duchy Hospital in Truro.

Both have an important role, but they serve different purposes.

My aim is to help patients understand their condition, explore the available options and make informed decisions about their care, without feeling under any pressure to proceed with treatment.

Free 20-Minute Online Consultation

I appreciate that many patients are uncertain whether their veins need treatment, what treatment might involve, or whether it would be worthwhile arranging a hospital appointment.

A free online consultation provides an opportunity to discuss these questions directly with me from the comfort of your home.

During this appointment, we can discuss:

Your symptoms and any concerns you may have.
The treatments that might be appropriate for your condition.
What treatment involves, including discomfort, recovery and possible complications.
The likely costs of investigation and treatment.
Whether a face-to-face assessment would be worthwhile.

There is no charge and no obligation to proceed.

Although a video consultation can be helpful in understanding your concerns and explaining your options, it cannot replace a physical examination or ultrasound scan. It is therefore not possible to provide a definitive diagnosis or recommend a specific treatment plan on this basis alone.

Comprehensive Face-to-Face Consultation and Ultrasound

For patients considering treatment for varicose veins, a detailed clinical examination and duplex ultrasound assessment are essential.

I allow up to one hour for this appointment, which takes place at the Duchy Hospital in Truro.

The consultation includes:

Clinical Assessment

A discussion of your symptoms, medical history, previous treatment and what you would like to achieve.

Duplex Ultrasound Examination

A detailed scan of the veins in both legs to identify any underlying venous reflux, assess the anatomy and establish the cause of your varicose veins.

Discussion of Treatment Options

An explanation of the available treatments, their advantages, limitations, risks and expected recovery. This includes discussing whether treatment is necessary or advisable at all.

Individual Treatment Plan

Where treatment is appropriate, I will explain which techniques I would recommend, why, and the expected costs.

The consultation costs £195, including the clinical assessment and duplex ultrasound examination.

Why Is Duplex Ultrasound So Important?

Varicose veins visible on the surface of the leg are frequently the result of problems in veins beneath the skin.

Treating the visible veins without understanding the underlying circulation can result in incomplete treatment or early recurrence.

Duplex ultrasound allows me to identify the source of the problem, assess the direction of blood flow and determine which veins, if any, need treatment.

This approach is consistent with NICE guidance (CG168), which recommends duplex ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis, assess the extent of venous reflux and plan treatment.

Depending on the findings, treatment may involve endovenous laser ablation, ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy, micro-phlebectomies or a combination of techniques.

Not everyone needs treatment, and sometimes reassurance or conservative management is the most appropriate advice.

Personal, Consultant-Led Care

Whether you choose an initial online discussion or proceed directly to a face-to-face consultation, you will see me personally.

I undertake the clinical assessment, ultrasound examination, treatment and subsequent follow-up myself.

I believe patients should have the time and information they need to make their own decisions, without pressure to undergo treatment.

Which Consultation Should I Choose?

If you are uncertain about your condition, would like to understand the options or simply want to discuss whether treatment might be appropriate, the free 20-minute online consultation is a sensible starting point.

If you already know that you would like to explore treatment and are ready for a detailed examination and ultrasound, you are welcome to book a comprehensive face-to-face consultation directly.

Whichever you choose, my aim is to provide clear, straightforward advice and help you decide what is right for you.

Our Commitment to You

At VeinCare Cornwall, I believe that good care extends beyond the consultation or procedure. My aim is to ensure that patients feel informed, supported and confident in the decisions they make about their treatment.

Direct Access to Your Surgeon

Every patient receives my direct mobile telephone number and email address in their consultation letter. If you have any questions or concerns, you are welcome to contact me directly, whether or not you decide to proceed with treatment.

Ongoing Support

My involvement doesn’t end when your consultation or treatment is complete. If you have concerns or need further advice, you are always welcome to get in touch.

I believe patients should have access to the surgeon responsible for their care, rather than having to navigate multiple departments or intermediaries.

Arrange a Consultation

If you would like to discuss your vein condition, you can arrange a free 20-minute online consultation or book a comprehensive face-to-face assessment with duplex ultrasound at the Duchy Hospital in Truro.

Visit VeinCare Cornwall for further information or to arrange an appointment.

Alternatively, please contact me:

Email: info@windhaber.co.uk
Telephone: 07974 192348