Leg Pigmentation

Leg pigmentation can be a sign of vascular problems like venous reflux, but with today’s advanced vein procedures, it’s treatable. At Houston Vein Specialists in Houston, Texas, experienced vascular surgeon David D. Shin, MD, RVT, RPVI, FACS, offers effective treatments to resolve the root cause of your leg pigmentation. Book your consultation by calling the office today to schedule your visit.

What is leg pigmentation?

Leg pigmentation is discoloration on your legs. The most common areas of pigmentation are usually in the lower legs, but pigmentation can appear anywhere on the legs. 

What causes leg pigmentation?

In many cases, leg pigmentation results from vein problems, appearing when veins are unhealthy. 

One of the most common reasons for leg pigmentation is venous reflux, also known as chronic venous insufficiency. It occurs when the valves that control blood flow out of the veins don’t function well. That causes blood to pool in the leg veins. 

If venous reflux isn’t treated in its earlier stages, the excess blood in the legs starts to break down, and iron pigments move into the skin. This process causes brown or dark red pigmentation on the leg. 

Many people with venous reflux also experience problems like varicose veins and leg ulcers. 

There are also other causes of leg pigmentation, for example, age spots. To determine whether your leg pigmentation represents a serious vein problem or another condition, schedule a vascular evaluation at Houston Vein Specialists. 

How is leg pigmentation evaluated?

Dr. Shin discusses your symptoms with you, reviews your medical history, and inspects your legs to examine the discolored areas closely. 

In most cases, you need a vascular ultrasound. This noninvasive exam allows Dr. Shin to see the veins within your body to detect the source of the pigmentation and other problems. 

How is leg pigmentation treated?

Dr. Shin controls venous disease at its source by removing the unhealthy vein causing your symptoms. Treatment options include: 

ClosureFast™ 

With ClosureFast, radiofrequency pulses heat the walls of the damaged vein, forcing it to shrink and seal off. 

VenaSeal™

VenaSeal closes unhealthy veins using a medical-grade adhesive. It essentially glues the vein walls together, and the vein closes immediately.

Phlebectomy

Phlebectomy is a minimally invasive procedure in which Dr. Shin removes veins through tiny, 3-millimeter incisions. The incisions don’t require sutures and heal quickly. 

For help with leg pigmentation, call Houston Vein Specialists to book your appointment today.