Dr. Ellen Derrick

Dr. Ellen Derrick Seattle vascular surgeon | Varicose Veins | Lipedema & Dercum's specialist | Health Outcomes Expert | Kind care, full-body healing |

Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) isn’t just a cosmetic issue, it’s a medical condition that can worsen over time if le...
04/22/2026

Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) isn’t just a cosmetic issue, it’s a medical condition that can worsen over time if left untreated. As it progresses, it can begin to affect your daily comfort and mobility.

If you’re noticing symptoms like heavy, swollen, or tight-feeling legs, it may be a sign of CVI and worth having evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Lipedema isn't just stubborn fat, it's a chronic condition that involves inflammation, fluid buildup, and changes in the...
04/21/2026

Lipedema isn't just stubborn fat, it's a chronic condition that involves inflammation, fluid buildup, and changes in the lymphatic system. That's where Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) can make a real difference.

MLD is a gentle, specialized massage technique designed to support the lymphatic system. For people with lipedema, this matters because the lymph flow is often sluggish or overwhelmed, leading to swelling, heaviness, and discomfort.

While MLD isn't a cure for lipedema, it's a powerful tool for managing symptoms and improving quality of life, especially when combined with compression, movement, and proper care.

Lipedema isn't a one-size-fits-all, there are five types of lipedema: Type I: fat primarily in hips and buttocksType II:...
04/20/2026

Lipedema isn't a one-size-fits-all, there are five types of lipedema:
Type I: fat primarily in hips and buttocks
Type II: fat from hips down to knees
Type III: fat from hips all the way to ankles
Type IV: fat in arms
Type V: fat limited to lower legs
No matter the type of lipedema it is symmetrical, can be painful, and does not respond to diet and exercise.

Understanding your type can help guide supportive care.

Lipedema management isn't about chasing weight loss, it's about supporting your body in ways it actually responds. Focus...
04/17/2026

Lipedema management isn't about chasing weight loss, it's about supporting your body in ways it actually responds.

Focus on daily habits that reduce inflammation and support circulation:
-Gentle, consistent movement (walking, swimming, rebounding)
-Compression garments for daily support
-Anti-inflammatory, nutrient dense foods
-Lymphatic support (manual drainage, dry brushing)
-Prioritizing rest, stress management, and hydration

Lipedema: a chronic fat disorder involving abnormal fat build up, usually in the legs and sometimes in the arms. Obesity...
04/16/2026

Lipedema: a chronic fat disorder involving abnormal fat build up, usually in the legs and sometimes in the arms.

Obesity: a condition of excess body fat affecting overall health.

Lipedema and cellulite are not the same. Lipedema is a medical condition, and cellulite is a completely normal skin text...
04/15/2026

Lipedema and cellulite are not the same. Lipedema is a medical condition, and cellulite is a completely normal skin texture.
If you are experiencing symptoms of lipedema, don't wait and get checked.

A lipoma does not turn into Derecum's disease, they are different conditions. Lipoma: single or a few are soft, benign f...
04/14/2026

A lipoma does not turn into Derecum's disease, they are different conditions.
Lipoma: single or a few are soft, benign fatty lumps under the skin. usually painless and slow growing.
Dercum's disease is a rare condition where multiple fatty growths become painful. The fatty growths occur throughout the body and are often accompanied with brain fog, and fatigue.

Another solution to varicose veins is VenaSeal. This minimally invasive treatment uses a medical adhesive to gently seal...
04/10/2026

Another solution to varicose veins is VenaSeal.

This minimally invasive treatment uses a medical adhesive to gently seal the affected vein shut. No heat, no multiple needle pokes, and little to no downtime.

Once the vein is closed your body naturally reroutes blood flow.

One effective treatment option for varicose veins is radio frequency ablation. This quick minimally invasive procedure u...
04/09/2026

One effective treatment option for varicose veins is radio frequency ablation.

This quick minimally invasive procedure uses ultrasound guidance to place a small catheter into the affected vein. Heat is then applied to close the vein, over time, your body naturally breaks down the vein and removes it.

Inside your veins are tiny valves that keep blood moving upward toward your heart. When these valves become weak or dama...
04/07/2026

Inside your veins are tiny valves that keep blood moving upward toward your heart. When these valves become weak or damaged, blood can pool in the vein instead of flowing properly. This leads to swelling, twisting, and that bulging, rope-like appearance.

1. Weak or damaged vein valves - This is the main cause. Over time, valves can wear out or stop closing properly.

2. Increased pressure in the veins - Anything that puts extra pressure on your legs can contribute:
-Standing or sitting for long periods
-Lack of movement

3. Age
As you get older, veins lose elasticity and valves weaken.

4. Genetics - If your parents had varicose veins, you're more likely to develop them.

5. Pregnancy - Hormonal changes + increased blood volume can strain veins.

6. Obesity - Extra weight puts more pressure on leg veins.

7. Hormonal factors - Changes from birth control or menopause can affect vein walls.

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3216 NE 45th Place, Suite 207
Seattle, WA

Telephone

+12065963976

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