Improving the health, comfort and appearance of every patient by addressing medical & cosmetic vein issues.
The Vein Institute at Southern Surgical Arts is a dedicated facility with one goal: the comprehensivetreatment of vein disorders. Using cutting-edge technology in our state of the art facility, our award-winning, board-certified surgeons are dedicated to improving the health, comfort, and appearance ofour patients. Vein disease is common, with more than 80 million Americans suffering from some for
m of venousdisorder. These disorders tend to grow more pronounced over time, becoming increasingly prominent inappearance and more uncomfortable. Advanced treatments and new technology mean that you no longer have to live in discomfort orembarrassment. At the Vein Institute, we routinely treat painful, unsightly, visible veins with innovative,specialized treatments to restore a more attractive appearance with long-lasting results.
01/31/2024
One of the first signs of venous disease is the appearance of unattractive veins, visible through the surface of the skin. Fortunately, unsightly veins are highly treatable and the look, feel and comfort of your legs can be greatly improved with modern treatment methods. Such conditions can be:
Though the conditions above are the most common visual conditions/symptoms of venous insufficiency/disease, there are many other conditions and symptoms that can arise. Thankfully, there have been numerous advances in the field of vascular medicine that allow us to help to reverse or improve these conditions/symptoms to help you get back to the life you want to be living. Other conditions we treat are:
➡️ Leg pain
➡️ Leg swelling
➡️ Venous skin ulcers
➡️ Pigment skin changes
➡️ Lipodermatosclerosis
➡️ Restless leg syndrome
➡️ Dermatitis
➡️ Bleeding/Hemorrhage from veins
➡️ Deep vein thombosis
➡️ Thrombophlebitis
➡️ Lymphedema
➡️ Phlebolymphedema
➡️ Facial veins
➡️ Hand veins
01/29/2024
Endovenous ablation is one of the modern, less invasive treatments of venous diseases that have replaced older, more invasive treatments such as vein stripping.
Endovenous ablation is a safe and effective procedure that provides dramatic improvements for a patient’s quality of life. The common symptoms of aching, swelling, leg pain, cramping, skin ulcerations, and discoloration can all be addressed with endovenous techniques. There is little to no scarring and this is a relatively low-risk procedure. Depending on your symptoms and medical condition, your doctor may recommend an endovenous procedure by itself or in conjunction with other treatment techniques to achieve the best outcome.
During an endovenous ablation procedure, you will be given a local anesthetic and your surgeon will make a tiny incision (usually just a needle stick) to place a catheter inside the problem vein(s). Guided by ultrasound, he will apply a layer of dilute local anesthesia around the vein to be treated. After the vein and surrounding tissues become numb intense local heat is applied to the target veins via a laser or using radiofrequency energy. The heat will cause the vein to collapse and seal itself shut. Dr. Gardner also provides IV sedation during endovenous ablation procedures to reduce patient anxiety.
Because this is a minimally-invasive procedure, the veins are not “stripped” out, or removed. Instead, the body’s natural inflammatory response will gradually break down the vein and it will be reabsorbed by the body.
01/26/2024
Varicose vein pain relief in the past was invasive and very painful, leading many people to choose to suffer from the pain of their varicose veins rather than undergo risky and painful procedures. Many people with varicose veins suffer in silence, afraid to seek treatment. And as time goes by, the pain generally gets worse. This 65-year-old man came to us hoping to find relief after 30 long years of suffering.
Dr. Gardner & his staff examined him to determine the best method of treatment. After undergoing procedures on both legs, he reported great improvement in his symptoms.. He is very happy with his final result – mainly the leg pain and fatigue are gone.
These Before and After pictures of the patient show before when he was in such pain, and the relief of his symptoms resolved. Thankfully, these results are typical for most patients.
01/24/2024
Leg veins, spider veins, and other visible vascular insufficiencies are common aesthetic conditions for which patients seek treatment for both medical and cosmetic reasons. Lasers and other light-based technologies enable effective treatment of unsightly veins by causing the vessels to collapse through coagulation with very minimal damage to adjacent structures.
Vascular lasers can be used on the legs, face or anywhere spider veins occur. This treatment can be used alone or in conjunction with other more invasive procedures. Vascular laser procedures can be used to treat leg veins, spider veins, vascular lesions, port wine stains, telangiectasias and hemangiomas for both medical and aesthetic needs.
01/22/2024
Our goal is to improve the health, comfort, and appearance of every patient and it makes our hearts so happy when we hear such great testimonials from our patients!
01/19/2024
Vein health is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of our overall well-being. Unfortunately, several myths and misconceptions surround the topic, leading to confusion and sometimes neglect of proper care. As a vein doctor, I frequently encounter these misconceptions and feel compelled to debunk some of the most common myths about vein health.
Myth 1: Varicose veins only affect the elderly.
Reality: Varicose veins can occur at any age. While they’re more prevalent in older adults, factors like genetics, pregnancy, and prolonged standing can trigger their appearance in younger individuals.
Myth 2: Varicose veins are purely cosmetic.
Reality: Beyond their visible appearance, varicose veins can cause discomfort, pain, and complications if left untreated. They may indicate underlying vein disease and require medical attention.
Myth 3: Crossing legs causes varicose veins.
Reality: Sitting with crossed legs can temporarily affect blood flow but doesn’t directly cause varicose veins. Prolonged sitting or standing, family history, and lifestyle factors play more significant roles.
Myth 4: Exercise worsens vein issues.
Reality: Regular exercise actually benefits vein health by improving circulation. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and cycling can prevent vein-related problems.
Myth 5: Surgery is the only solution for vein issues.
Reality: Various non-surgical treatments exist, such as sclerotherapy and laser therapy, offering effective options for managing vein conditions without invasive procedures.
Understanding these myths is crucial in promoting proactive vein health. Proper education and debunking misconceptions can empower individuals to take preventive measures and seek timely treatment when necessary. Remember, consulting with a vein specialist can provide personalized guidance for maintaining optimal vein health and addressing any concerns effectively.
01/17/2024
This 41-year-old man came to Dr. Gardner complaining of leg pain, restless legs, itching and cramping in both lower extremities. He had suffered since the age of 25 as the varicose veins progressively worsened. He had a family history of venous disease and decided to take control of his life again.
Dr. Gardner diagnosed his varicose veins and chose to treat him using Endovenous Ablation techniques. Photos show the patient before treatment began and two months after treatment on both legs.
The patient reports that Dr. Gardner was able to resolve his leg pain and swelling, restless legs, cramping, and itching all associated with varicose veins. These results are typical for most patients at The Vein Institute.
01/15/2024
It’s been awhile since we have introduced our team and thought it was about time for a reintroduction! Meet John Jordi, a vital member of our team!
John received training as a Physical Therapist Assistant from St. Catherine University, Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1993. In 2007, he earned a B.S. in Business Administration (summa cm laude) from Bryan College, Dayton, Tennessee.
John has been a therapist for 29 years. His early background includes treatment of strokes, brain injuries, and wound care. For the past 23 years, he has specialized in lymphedema treatment and research in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Most recently he served as Clinic Director of a physical therapy clinic specializing in lymphedema, venous disease, and custom garment fittings. Currently, he is the Clinical Manager for Juzo USA, in addition to treating lymphedema and CVI at The Vein Institute in Chattanooga. Additionally, he is the owner of Compression Consultants as an expert fitter for upper and lower extremity compression and custom compression garments.
John is also an adjunct instructor for the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga where he teaches the lymphedema portion of the doctorate program. He is a senior instructor for the Academy of Lymphatic Studies (ACOLS) and has been with them since 2008. John has been a speaker at Juzo Power Symposium, Klose training, NLN, and AVLS.
John has been published 4 times and provides the clinical expertise for the research publications with Vanderbilt University and Western Carolina University. These articles have appeared in Radiology, Journal of Lymphoedema, and Lymphatic Research and Biology. John also consults with other universities and businesses in continued research related to lymphedema. John also offers no-charge seminars to therapists in his area on topics such as difficult garment fittings, billing issues, and wrapping techniques for therapists.
While John managed the Siskin Hospital lymphedema program, the facility was noted in two journals: MD News, for its inpatient and outpatient program, and Rehab Management Journal, for providing one of only two inpatient programs for Stage 3 lymphedema patients which he initiated. He also managed a free fitting clinic twice a month for any lymphedema patients who had need, he initiated a patient endowment fund at Siskin Hospital to assist patients with the cost of compression garments and he organized a support group for those with lymphedema.
John was also awarded the designation of NLN Expert Clinician by the National Lymphedema Network in 2023 for his dedication and professional excellence in the field of Lymphology.
01/12/2024
Varithena is the first FCA approved injectable foam treatment that corrects reflux in the saphenous veins and reducing the appearance of bulging veins, as well as reducing discomfort from throbbing, itchy, achy, and painful vein disease reported by many patients. Those with varicose veins, with or without pain or discomfort, are typically good candidates for this treatment.
This non-surgical treatment does not require sedation, but we will numb the treatment area – about the size of your fingernail – to ensure you are not in any discomfort. The doctor, using ultrasound guidance, will then insert a small needle or catheter tube into the problem area of your varicose veins through which the Varithena foam will enter the vein, causing the vein to collapse. When it collapses, the blood will flow into a nearby healthy vein. The procedure typically takes less than an hour.
01/08/2024
This 48-year old female suffered from bilateral leg pain and swelling for many years. Her job requires her to stand for long hours. She was also embarrassed about how they looked and hasn’t worn shorts in many years. She was referred to Dr. Gardner for treatment.
After several treatments using modern techniques, she has regained the power back in her legs. The fatigue is gone and she notes improvement in her both leg pain and swelling. Now that the large bulging veins are gone she is much more confident in how she feels. She says for the first time in a decade she will be wearing shorts this summer.
Leg pain and swelling can be caused by other issues not related to the vascular system. You should consult a doctor to determine the causes and treatment plan. If you are local in the Chattanooga area, request a consultation with Dr. Garnder now.
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The Vein Institute at Southern Surgical Arts is a dedicated facility with one goal: the comprehensive treatment of vein disorders. Using cutting-edge technology in our state of the art facility, our award-winning, board-certified surgeons are dedicated to improving the health, comfort, and appearance of our patients.
Vein disease is common, with more than 80 million Americans suffering from some form of venous disorder. These disorders tend to grow more pronounced over time, becoming increasingly prominent in appearance and more uncomfortable.
Advanced treatments and new technology mean that you no longer have to live in discomfort or embarrassment. At the Vein Institute, we routinely treat painful, unsightly, visible veins with innovative, specialized treatments to restore a more attractive appearance with long-lasting results.
Dr. Vincent Gardner is devoted to advancing the modern treatment of venous disease, as well as offering his patients the most comprehensive, modern and effective cosmetic procedures available. His 18-year career has provided him with a wealth of experience and expertise to offer his patients.
Dr. Gardner received his B.S. in Biology from Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee, and his M.D. from the University of South Alabama, College of Medicinein Mobile, Alabama, where he was a member of the AOA honor medical society. Dr. Gardner was awarded the Outstanding Resident in Surgery award during his Chief Resident Year in surgical training with Baptist Health Systems in Birmingham. Dr. Gardner is certified by the American Board of Surgery, the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, and the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine. Additionally, he is credentialed in ultrasound and is a Registered Surgeon in Vascular Interpretation (RPVI). Dr. Gardner serves on the faculty of SSAs’ American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery’s Fellowship Program, where he helps to train outstanding surgeons from around the country. He is also a board examiner for the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery.
After a career in general surgery, including laparoscopic, thoracic, geriatric and vascular procedures, Dr. Gardner began performing endovenous thermal ablations to benefit his vein patients in 2006. He joined the Alabama Vascular and Vein Center a year later, where he focused his efforts on using endovenous techniques to treat venous disorders. During this time, Dr. Gardner also performed cosmetic surgeries at Southern Surgical Arts while completing a fellowship in facial and cosmetic body surgery.
After his fellowship with SSA, Dr. Gardner relocated his practice to Chattanooga, focusing on the treatment of venous disease and cosmetic surgery. He lives on Signal Mountain with his wife and two children. Dr. Gardner enjoys woodworking and college football and has traveled to Honduras for medical mission work.
