Month: April 2025

When One Leg Swells: Why Dr. Polly Kokinos is Santa Clara County’s Go-To Expert for May-Thurner Syndrome

Posted on by Michael Kokinos

Swelling in one leg should never be ignored. It’s not normal — and it’s not something a pair of compression socks can fix. More often than not, it’s a red flag. One of the most underdiagnosed causes? A condition called May-Thurner Syndrome (MTS), also known as iliac vein compression.

Dr. Polly Kokinos, a board-certified vascular surgeon with elite training from Columbia, UCSF, and Washington University, is the physician that primary care doctors, cardiologists, and even other vascular specialists turn to when they suspect something more serious is at play. She’s not just a vein doctor. She’s where the buck stops.

What Is May-Thurner Syndrome?

May-Thurner Syndrome occurs when the right iliac artery compresses the left iliac vein against the spine, restricting blood flow out of the left leg. This leads to swelling, pain, heaviness, and in some cases, deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

It often goes undiagnosed because surface ultrasounds can’t see into the pelvis — which is where the problem lies. Only a vascular surgeon with advanced imaging capability and specialized training can make this diagnosis accurately.

Symptoms That Mean It’s Time to Call Dr. Kokinos

– Swelling in one leg (usually the left)
– Aching or heaviness after walking or standing
– Skin discoloration or visible pelvic veins
– Previous DVT or unexplained leg pain
– History of misdiagnosed or recurring leg swelling

Why Experience — and Board Certification — Matter

Many providers advertising vein care are not board-certified vascular surgeons. Some have no hospital privileges and refer out complex cases they’re not equipped to treat.

Dr. Kokinos is different:
– She has performed thousands of advanced venous interventions.
– She does not refer out — she diagnoses and treats MTS herself.
– She holds active hospital privileges across Santa Clara County.
– Her training gives her the ability to recognize what most miss.

What patients are saying about Dr Kokinos

🗣️ Patient Testimonial 1:

“My experience with South Bay Vascular, and Dr. Kokinos, was outstanding. Since my procedure, I have had ZERO of any of the symptoms I had been experiencing: no swelling, no ankle pain, no varicose vein, and no clots. Could not be happier!”
— SBVC Patient ​southbayvascular.com

🗣️ Patient Testimonial 2:

“Highly recommend this place for vascular surgery. Dr. Kokinos knows her stuff, spends extra time before and after the surgery, double checks everything with…”
— Yelp Reviewer ​Yelp+1MapQuest+1

Dr. Polly Kokinos: The Physician Other Physicians Trust

Whether you’re a busy professional, a mom, or a retiree, you deserve answers. If your leg swelling has been dismissed or misdiagnosed, now is the time to get the clarity you deserve — from the physician who sees what others don’t.

Call (408) 376-3626 today to schedule your advanced vascular consultation.

Confident Legs. Confident Life. Trust your legs to Dr. Polly Kokinos — the valley’s most trusted name in vascular care.

Poolside Confidence Starts with Beautiful Legs: Dr. Polly Kokinos Helps You Get There

Posted on by Michael Kokinos

Summer is almost here — and so are the poolside invitations, sunset garden parties, and spontaneous escapes to Napa, Santorini, or the South of France. But if you’re hesitating to RSVP because of unsightly veins or discolored legs, you’re not alone. And you’re not without options.

At South Bay Vascular Center and Vein Institute, Dr. Polly Kokinos understands the unspoken truth: beauty and confidence are intimately connected. Whether you’re in Los Gatos, Beverly Hills, or Palo Alto, your appearance is more than skin deep — it’s a reflection of who you are, and everything you’ve worked for.

Now is not the time to hide. Now is the time to reclaim your elegance. And no one understands that better than Dr. Kokinos.

The Beauty of Confidence — and the Confidence of Beauty

Confidence isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence. And for the women who run businesses, raise families, build networks, and navigate the demands of a high-achieving life, feeling beautiful is a necessity — not a luxury.

Varicose veins are not a cosmetic inconvenience. They’re a medical condition that can erode confidence, limit wardrobe choices, and create shame where there should be celebration.

You deserve to feel radiant in your skin. You deserve to walk into every party, gala, or boardroom with legs you love. And Dr. Polly Kokinos can help you get there.

Varicose Veins Steal the Spotlight — Dr. Kokinos Gives It Back

Vein disease can creep up gradually. A purple line here. A heaviness there. But suddenly, it’s the only thing you notice when you slip into that dress or step into the sunlight.

Symptoms include:
– Visible bulging veins or spider webs
– Swelling, aching, or heaviness in the legs
– Skin discoloration or thickening
– Throbbing pain when standing or walking

Left untreated, these signs can deepen — not just physically, but emotionally. That’s why discerning women across Silicon Valley and Southern California turn to Dr. Kokinos.

World-Class Training. Boutique-Level Attention.

Dr. Polly Kokinos trained at Columbia University, UCSF’s elite surgical program, and Washington University — three of the most rigorous medical institutions in the world.

With more than 30 years of experience, she has helped thousands of women rediscover the joy of elegant legs and freedom from compression stockings, coverups, or hiding behind sarongs.

What truly sets her apart?
– She listens. She understands. She sees you.
– In-office, image-guided procedures
– Discreet, fast-recovery solutions — often done in under an hour
– Board-certified vascular surgeon with aesthetic mastery — a rare combination
– Recognized throughout Santa Clara County as the most trusted vein expert for women seeking more than clinical care

For Everything You’ve Built, It’s Time to Stand Tall Again

Whether you’re managing a foundation, curating a home, or raising extraordinary young people — your presence deserves to be bold and unapologetic.

Let this summer be the one where you fall in love with your legs again.

Say Yes to Summer. Dr. Kokinos Will Take Care of the Rest.

Call South Bay Vascular Center at (408) 376-3626

to schedule your private consultation with Dr. Polly Kokinos —

 

the physician women trust when beauty, expertise, and discretion matter most.

Confident Legs. Confident Life.


Show up. Shine bright. And never cover up again.

Skin Discoloration or Texture Changes on Your Lower Legs? It Might Be a Warning Sign of Serious Vein Disease

Posted on by Michael Kokinos

Changes in the color or texture of the skin on your lower legs are not just signs of aging. They’re often early indicators of vein disease — a condition that progresses quietly but can have serious consequences if ignored.

At South Bay Vascular Center and Vein Institute, Dr. Polly Kokinos has earned her reputation as the Bay Area’s foremost vascular surgeon by identifying what others overlook. Her commitment to early detection and precision care has helped thousands of patients avoid ulcers, blood clots, and even limb loss. If you notice brown, red, or shiny patches on your lower legs, this post is your sign to take it seriously.

What Skin Discoloration Says About Your Vein Health

The skin is often your body’s first warning sign that something deeper is wrong. In patients with Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI), blood pools in the lower legs, leaking into surrounding tissue. Over time, this causes visible changes that include:

– Brown, purple, or red patches near the ankle or calf
– Thin, shiny, or tight skin
– Itchy, irritated areas that don’t go away
– Flaky or leathery texture
– Hardening of the skin (lipodermatosclerosis)

These signs aren’t just cosmetic. They’re signals that your veins are struggling to return blood to your heart.

Why This Happens – and Why It Gets Worse Without Help

When vein valves weaken, gravity pulls blood downward. This causes vein pressure to rise and forces red blood cells into surrounding tissues. The iron in those cells (hemosiderin) stains the skin, while inflammation from stagnant fluid damages the surrounding tissue.

Left untreated, this can lead to:
– Venous leg ulcers
– Painful skin infections (cellulitis)
– Severe leg swelling (edema)
– Long-term mobility issues

What Sets Dr. Polly Kokinos Apart in Diagnosing and Treating Vein-Related Skin Changes

While many doctors misdiagnose these symptoms as eczema or aging, Dr. Polly Kokinos uses advanced diagnostic imaging to uncover the vascular root causes. Her experience – and success – treating vein disease in its early stages is unmatched.

– Vascular ultrasound performed on-site during your first visit
– Personalized treatment plans (no cosmetic band-aids)
– Minimally invasive procedures with fast recovery
– Four South Bay locations for convenient care
– Trusted by referring physicians, wound care centers, and hospitals

What Our Patients Say

“I thought it was just age spots. Dr. Kokinos showed me it was a circulation issue and treated it before it became an ulcer.”
— Brenda L., Los Gatos

“I was using creams for months, but my skin kept getting worse. She knew exactly what was wrong. She’s the best.”
— Kevin J., Santa Clara

Don’t Let a Skin Change Become a Health Crisis

If you notice color changes or rough, tight skin on your lower legs, don’t wait. The earlier vein disease is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat – and the better your outcome.

Call South Bay Vascular at (408) 376-3626 today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Polly Kokinos, the most trusted name in vein care across Santa Clara County.

Confident Legs, Confident Life. Trust your legs to the surgeon other doctors trust most.

Leg Pain While Standing or Sitting at Work? It Might Be Vein Disease — Not Just Fatigue

Posted on by Michael Kokinos

Do your legs ache by the end of the day? Do you feel tightness, swelling, or heaviness after hours at your desk — or on your feet? Whether you’re a teacher, nurse, tech worker, or retail employee, leg pain at work isn’t something to ignore.

And here’s the truth most people don’t hear: **You might not be tired. You might be sick.**

At South Bay Vascular Center and Vein Institute, **Dr. Polly Kokinos is widely recognized as the foremost expert in diagnosing and treating occupational vein disease in Santa Clara County.** Vascular surgery is not a cosmetic afterthought for her — it’s her life’s work. Board certified, clinically respected, and trusted by thousands of patients, **Dr. Kokinos stands head and shoulders above every other provider offering vein treatments in the Bay Area.**

Why Work-Related Leg Pain Is a Red Flag

Your circulatory system is under constant strain when you sit or stand for long hours. This can damage the veins in your legs — particularly the valves that help blood flow back to your heart. When these valves weaken, blood pools in the lower legs, causing:

– Aching or burning pain
– Swelling in feet or ankles
– Restless legs or cramping at night
– Skin changes (itching, dryness, dark patches)
– Bulging varicose veins

The Hidden Condition Behind Your Leg Pain: Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)

CVI is a progressive disease caused by damaged leg veins. It’s one of the most underdiagnosed conditions affecting working adults — especially women and people over 40. Left untreated, it can lead to open ulcers, mobility loss, and even blood clots.

Don’t ignore the signs. Don’t wait until you “have time.” **The longer you wait, the harder it is to reverse the damage.**

What Makes Dr. Polly Kokinos the Premier Choice for Professionals with Leg Pain

**Not all vein clinics are created equal. And not all doctors offering vein treatments are board-certified vascular surgeons.**

Dr. Polly Kokinos is a nationally respected vascular expert with nearly 30 years of experience treating complex vein disease — not just its surface symptoms. Her unique blend of technical excellence and compassion sets the gold standard for vein care in the South Bay.

🏥 State-of-the-art diagnostic imaging — on site
💼 Designed for busy professionals: short, walk-in procedures
📊 Custom care plans to match your work lifestyle
📍 Two convenient locations in Campbell and Gilroy
🧠 Second-opinion consults for failed procedures done elsewhere

Real Working People. Real Transformations.

“I thought my leg heaviness was normal. Dr. Kokinos diagnosed CVI in under 30 minutes. Life changing.”
— Priya M., tech analyst, Sunnyvale

“She treated the cause, not just the vein. My energy is back. I wish I’d gone years ago.”
— David C., nurse, Campbell

“She’s in another league. You won’t find this level of skill or attention at the pop-up vein centers.”
— Larissa F., teacher, San Jose

Let Dr. Kokinos Get You Back on Your Feet — Pain Free

Leg pain is never just “part of the job.” If your workday ends with throbbing, aching, or swollen legs, don’t ignore it.

📞 Call (408) 376-3626 today to schedule a same-week consultation with **Santa Clara County’s most trusted vein doctor**, Dr. Polly Kokinos.

👣 Confident Legs, Confident Life. You deserve more than a quick fix — you deserve expert care that lasts.

Leg Wounds That Won’t Heal? It Could Be Vein Disease — Not Just Old Age

Posted on by Michael Kokinos

If you or someone you care for has a sore or wound on the lower leg that just won’t go away — especially around the ankle — don’t ignore it. What might look like a simple scrape or irritation could be something much more serious: a venous leg ulcer.

At South Bay Vascular Center and Vein Institute, Dr. Polly Kokinos sees this every day. What starts as a dry patch or scab ends up becoming an open sore that refuses to heal. Often misdiagnosed or ignored, these ulcers are a key warning sign of vein disease — a condition that requires expert care to avoid worsening problems, including infection and even amputation.

What Is a Venous Leg Ulcer?

A venous leg ulcer is an open wound that develops because of poor blood flow through the veins in your legs. When the valves inside your veins stop working properly, blood pools near the ankles. This increased pressure causes skin to weaken and break down.

These ulcers typically appear:
– Around the inner ankle
– After a minor injury or bump
– With symptoms like swelling, aching, or skin discoloration

Why These Wounds Don’t Heal On Their Own

Unlike a cut or scrape that closes up in a few days, venous ulcers don’t heal because blood isn’t flowing correctly. The skin stays inflamed and weak. Over-the-counter creams won’t fix the problem — and in fact, waiting too long can make things worse.

Common signs it’s a venous ulcer:
– The wound’s been there more than 2 weeks
– It gets red, weepy, or has a yellow film
– The area around the wound smells or is warm to the touch
– The sore starts small and slowly gets bigger

Dr. Polly Kokinos: Fighting to Save Limbs in Santa Clara County

At South Bay Vascular, Dr. Kokinos leads the fight to save legs from unnecessary amputations caused by undiagnosed vein disease. She’s a board-certified vascular surgeon who works with diabetic patients, seniors, and those told there’s “nothing more to do.”

What sets her apart?
✔️ On-site vein ultrasound diagnostics
✔️ In-office procedures that don’t require a hospital stay
✔️ Immediate access to wound care and vascular services
✔️ Compassionate, clear explanations every step of the way

Real Patients. Real Results.

“My dad’s sore was getting worse every day. We had no idea it was vein-related until Dr. Kokinos stepped in. She saved his leg.”
— Grace Y., San Jose

“I kept wrapping it up with bandages, but it wouldn’t heal. I wish I’d gone to her sooner.”
— Oscar V., Gilroy

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

If you or a loved one has a wound near the ankle that won’t heal, don’t chalk it up to age or diabetes. These are warning signs of a deeper issue — one that can lead to hospitalization or even limb loss if left untreated.

📞 Call South Bay Vascular at (408) 376-3626 today to schedule an appointment with

Dr. Polly Kokinos.

 Confident Legs, Confident Life. There’s help. And there’s hope.

Leg Swelling and Vein Disease in Diabetics: What Your Legs Might Be Trying to Tell You

Posted on by Michael Kokinos

Diabetes affects nearly every part of the body — but one area that is too often ignored is your veins. If you or a loved one is diabetic and experiencing leg swelling, skin changes, or open sores that won’t heal, the cause might not just be blood sugar — it might be underlying vein disease.

At South Bay Vascular Center and Vein Institute, Dr. Polly Kokinos has become the leading expert in treating vein disease in diabetic patients across Santa Clara County. Her commitment to compassionate, culturally sensitive care and her expertise in minimally invasive vascular treatments make her the most trusted provider in the region.

Diabetes and Vein Disease: A Dangerous Overlap

Diabetics are more prone to developing venous insufficiency because high blood sugar damages the walls of veins and weakens circulation over time. This leads to:

– Swelling in the legs and feet
– Discoloration near the ankles
– Skin thickening or scabbing
– Pain when walking or standing
– Sores that don’t heal (venous ulcers)

For many diabetic patients, these symptoms are dismissed as “neuropathy” or “normal for diabetes.” But in reality, they may signal Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) or other advanced vein disorders that need immediate treatment.

The Risks of Ignoring Vein Disease in Diabetic Patients

When vein disease goes untreated in diabetic patients, the consequences can be severe:
– Non-healing wounds
– Skin infections (cellulitis)
– Venous leg ulcers
– Increased risk of amputation

This is especially true in older Latino, Asian, and African-American communities — where diabetes rates are higher, and access to specialized vein care is often limited. Dr. Kokinos is known for her culturally aware, respectful, and highly skilled approach to helping patients of all backgrounds get the help they need.

Why Dr. Polly Kokinos Is the #1 Choice for Diabetics with Vein Issues

With almost 30 years of experience treating complex vascular disease, Dr. Kokinos combines state-of-the-art diagnostics, non-surgical treatment options, and personalized care to restore comfort, mobility, and dignity to her patients.

🧪 Same-day leg vein ultrasound testing
🦶 Minimally invasive procedures (no general anesthesia)
📍 Two convenient locations in the South Bay
💬 Fluent staff who speak Spanish, Tagalog, and Mandarin

Most importantly, Dr. Kokinos never rushes. She listens. And she fights to save limbs before it’s too late.

What Patients Are Saying

“I didn’t know my wounds weren’t healing because of bad veins. Dr. Kokinos changed everything. She saved my leg.”
— Manuel R., San Jose

“She treated my mom like family. We’re so grateful.”
— Aileen T., Santa Clara

“Finally a doctor who understood my diabetes AND my circulation issues. That combination is rare.”
— Ernesto V., Milpitas

Get the Answers You Deserve Before It’s Too Late

If you or someone you care for is diabetic and showing signs of vein disease — swelling, discoloration, or leg wounds — don’t wait.

📞 Call South Bay Vascular Center at (408) 376-3626 today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Polly Kokinos.

Confident Legs, Confident Life. Dr. Kokinos will help you get there — safely, compassionately, and effectively.

Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI): The Silent Circulatory Disorder Affecting Professionals in Santa Clara County

Posted on by Michael Kokinos

If you’re a busy professional dealing with leg fatigue, swelling, or heaviness after a long day at work, you might be experiencing more than simple exhaustion. Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) is a progressive vein disorder that often goes undiagnosed — until serious symptoms begin to impact your daily life.

At South Bay Vascular Center and Vein Institute, Dr. Polly Kokinos has become the most trusted name in diagnosing and treating CVI across Santa Clara County. Her unparalleled experience in vascular surgery, minimally invasive treatment options, and her deep understanding of circulatory health sets her apart as the physician of choice for discerning professionals who demand excellence in care.

What is Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)?

CVI occurs when the veins in your legs cannot efficiently return blood back to your heart. This is typically due to valve failure within the veins, causing blood to pool in the lower extremities. Over time, this can result in pain, swelling, skin changes, and venous ulcers.

CVI is often progressive and linked to varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and venous reflux. It affects up to 40% of adults and is more common in individuals who sit or stand for long periods — such as teachers, tech workers, healthcare professionals, and those in retail or service roles.

Common Symptoms Professionals Often Overlook

– Aching or tired legs, especially after work
– Swelling in the ankles or calves by the evening
– Cramping or restlessness at night
– Skin discoloration or thickening near the ankles
– Visible varicose veins or bulging veins
– Open wounds or sores that are slow to heal

These symptoms are often mistaken for aging or stress-related fatigue — when in reality, they are early signs of a potentially serious vascular condition.

Why Dr. Polly Kokinos Is the Physician of Choice for CVI

Dr. Kokinos is a board-certified vascular surgeon with over 20 years of experience treating CVI and complex vein conditions. Her approach is methodical and precise, backed by cutting-edge diagnostics and minimally invasive treatments that allow patients to return to work and life quickly.

✔️ Same-day ultrasound diagnostics onsite
✔️ Advanced vein mapping and treatment planning
✔️ In-office procedures with minimal downtime
✔️ Two convenient South Bay locations

What Professionals Say About Their Treatment Experience

“I had no idea my leg swelling and fatigue was a vein issue. Dr. Kokinos immediately identified the problem and fixed it. She’s the real deal.”
— Martin P., San Jose

“Dr. Kokinos is in a league of her own. I felt seen, heard, and cared for. Her precision and compassion were exactly what I needed.”
— Serena W., Sunnyvale

Don’t Wait to Get the Answers You Deserve

CVI doesn’t resolve on its own — but the good news is that with early intervention, it can be managed and even reversed. If you’re experiencing symptoms, don’t wait.

📞 Call South Bay Vascular Center at (408) 376-3626 today to schedule your evaluation with Dr. Polly Kokinos — the trusted vascular expert for professionals in Santa Clara County.

Confident Legs, Confident Life. Rediscover comfort, mobility, and energy with the care of a true specialist.

Varicose Veins: They’re More Than Just Cosmetic — Here’s What You Need to Know

Posted on by Michael Kokinos

Why Ignoring Your Leg Veins Could Cost You More Than Confidence

If you’ve noticed twisted, bulging veins on your legs — especially if they throb, ache, or worsen at the end of the day — it’s time to stop thinking of them as “just cosmetic.” Varicose veins are often the visible warning signs of deeper venous disease, and for thousands of people in Santa Clara County, they’re a call to action that should not be ignored.

At South Bay Vascular Center and Vein Institute, Dr. Polly Kokinos has built her reputation over two decades as the most trusted, experienced, and highly skilled vascular surgeon treating varicose veins in Santa Clara County. This blog breaks down why her expertise matters — and what your legs might be trying to tell you before things get worse.

What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that typically appear in the legs due to weakened or damaged valves. These faulty valves allow blood to pool, leading to the swelling and bulging veins we commonly associate with the condition.

But that’s just the surface.

What many people don’t realize is that varicose veins often signal chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a progressive condition that, if untreated, can lead to serious complications like leg ulcers, skin changes, blood clots, and even deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

5 Signs Your Varicose Veins May Be a Warning Sign

  1. Pain or heaviness in the legs that worsens after standing or sitting.
  2. Swelling around the ankles — especially in the evening.
  3. Itching, burning, or throbbing sensations near the vein.
  4. Skin discoloration or thickening around the ankle or lower calf.
  5. Open sores or wounds near the ankle that don’t heal (venous ulcers).

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to irreversible damage to your veins, skin, and overall vascular health.

Why Varicose Veins Are Not Just Cosmetic

While spider veins and small varicosities may be harmless, larger varicose veins are frequently part of a larger circulatory issue. Left untreated, they can escalate into:

  • Stasis dermatitis
  • Leg ulcers
  • Lipodermatosclerosis
  • Superficial thrombophlebitis
  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

If you’ve ever been told to “just wear compression stockings” or “wait until they get worse,” you’re not alone. Unfortunately, too many physicians without vascular training miss the systemic implications of varicose veins.

That’s where Dr. Polly Kokinos stands apart.

Why Dr. Kokinos Is the Authority on Vein Care in Santa Clara County

Unlike many doctors offering vein procedures as a cosmetic sideline, Dr. Polly Kokinos is a board-certified vascular surgeon who has dedicated her life to treating venous and arterial disease. Her expertise blends clinical mastery with aesthetic grace, ensuring not only that patients get relief from symptoms — but that their legs look and feel better than they have in years.

She has performed thousands of successful vein procedures, from radiofrequency and laser ablation to phlebectomy with outcomes that speak for themselves.

📍 Two convenient South Bay locations
🔬 On-site diagnostic ultrasound lab staffed by full time Registered Vascular Technologists
💡 Advanced minimally invasive treatments
🩺 Full-spectrum vascular care from diagnosis to follow-up

In a field flooded with non-specialists, Dr. Kokinos’s depth of experience and vascular insight make her the clear choice for anyone suffering from varicose veins.

What Patients Are Saying

“After years of hiding my legs and dealing with pain, Dr. Kokinos changed my life. The procedure was quick, and my legs look amazing. I can finally wear shorts again!”
— Jennifer M., Los Gatos

“I saw a few other doctors before landing at South Bay Vascular. Nobody took my symptoms seriously until I met Dr. Kokinos. She’s the real deal.”
— Elaine D., San Jose

“She didn’t just treat the veins — she found the underlying issue. That’s the difference when you see a real vascular surgeon.”
— Lisa T., Morgan Hill

When to Seek Help — and Why You Shouldn’t Wait

If you’ve been brushing off your symptoms as “just cosmetic” or “a normal part of aging,” it’s time to think again. The longer venous disease progresses, the harder it is to treat — and the more your quality of life suffers.

Early intervention means better outcomes, fewer complications, and in many cases, a dramatic improvement in leg appearance and comfort.

📞 Don’t Wait — Get the Answers Your Legs Deserve

At South Bay Vascular Center and Vein Institute, Dr. Polly Kokinos and her team offer personalized evaluations, non-invasive testing, and same-week treatment plans designed to help you walk confidently again.

Call us today at (408) 376-3626 to schedule a consultation at one of our four South Bay locations.

Confident Legs, Confident Life.
Trust the name Santa Clara County turns to when vein health is on the line: Dr. Polly Kokinos.

The Truth About Vein Treatment—And Why Women Choose Dr. Polly Kokinos

Posted on by Michael Kokinos

Confident Legs. Confident Life. (SM)

In a world where image, confidence, and credibility matter, professional women understand the subtle yet powerful toll that varicose veins can take—not just on appearance, but on how you move, feel, and present yourself. You’ve worked too hard to settle for discomfort or cosmetic cover-ups. You deserve results.

At South Bay Vascular Center, Dr. Polly Kokinos has made it her mission for over 30 years to help women reclaim their strength and presence by delivering flawless outcomes through true vascular expertise. When it comes to your legs, you only get one chance to choose the right surgeon. Here’s what you need to know—before you book that first appointment.

What Most Patients Don’t Know—But Should

Varicose vein treatment has exploded in popularity. But here’s what’s rarely discussed:

Many so-called “vein specialists” are not vascular surgeons. In fact, they often hold board certifications in:

  • Pain management
  • Internal medicine
  • Anesthesiology

And they may have only recently started offering vein treatments to boost revenue—not because they spent a career dedicated to vascular health.

A full board certification in vascular surgery requires rigorous training in both arterial and venous disease—not just a weekend course.

Dr. Kokinos is a fellowship-trained, board-certified vascular surgeon, and the only woman in the region with this depth of experience and precision.

Real Reviews. Real Results.

“Dr. Kokinos is a godsend. After years of painful legs and failed treatments, she knew exactly what to do. She listened and cared.”
— Sandra B., Morgan Hill

“I went to a fancy vein clinic first, but something felt off. I’m glad I waited. Dr. Kokinos did everything in one appointment—and the results were stunning.”
— Lisa D., Gilroy

“She blends medical brilliance with artistry. I feel like I have new legs.”
— Nina R., Los Gatos

How These Procedures Are Really Done (And Billed)

At some offices, treatment is split into multiple appointments—not for clinical reasons, but to bill insurance more than once. Some doctors use outdated methods or perform procedures in non-accredited settings.

Dr. Kokinos performs all vein procedures:

  • In a state-of-the-art, accredited outpatient center
  • In one complete session whenever clinically appropriate
  • With a transparent explanation of billing, insurance coverage, and follow-up

What to Expect from Treatment

Modern varicose vein treatment is:

  • Minimally invasive
  • Office-based (no hospital visit)
  • Quick recovery with little to no downtime

Options include:

  • Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT)
  • Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
  • Ambulatory Phlebectomy

Each option is designed to restore both circulatory health and cosmetic beauty. And with Dr. Kokinos, that blend of form and function is delivered with expert care.

Why Women Choose Dr. Kokinos for their Vein Care

  • Independent Practice – No quotas. No corporate upsells.
  • The Touch of a Woman – Empathy, precision, and understanding.
  • 30+ Years of Excellence – Real surgical experience and stunning results.

Call today to schedule your Vein Consulation. 408-376-3626

“We Offer Hope When Others Say There Is None”

Credentials, Care, and Confidence—Why Your Vein Doctor’s Background Matters More Than You Think

Posted on by Michael Kokinos

Confident Legs. Confident Life.

As a professional woman juggling a demanding career and family obligations, the last thing you want is to feel uncomfortable in your own skin—especially when that discomfort stems from something treatable like varicose veins. For women in the South Bay, choosing the right doctor to treat vein disease isn’t just about beauty—it’s about trust, integrity, and results.

And here’s the truth that too many patients learn too late:

Not all vein doctors are created equal.

In fact, many vein centers are staffed by providers who are not board-certified vascular surgeons. These may be internal medicine doctors, anesthesiologists, Cardiac and or Thoracic Surgeons; Inventional Radiologists, Dermatologists, Plastic Surgeons or even cosmetic physicians who’ve taken a course or two in vein procedures.

When it comes to the legs you walk on every day, you need more than surface-level knowledge.

Dr. Polly Kokinos—A full ARDMS Board Certified Vascular surgeon who blends clinical mastery with aesthetic grace, and who has more than 30 years of dedicated, board-certified vascular experience.

Why Full Board Certification in Vascular Surgery Matters

A board-certified vascular surgeon has undergone:

  • 7+ years of specialized surgical training in General Surgery followed by another two years of specialized Vascular Surgery. 
  • Rigorous board exams in both general and vascular surgery
  • Hands-on experience in thousands of procedures involving both arterial and venous systems

Compare that to a physician board-certified in pain medicine or anesthesiology, who may simply add vein treatments to their practice as an additional income stream. It’s not the same—and the outcomes speak for themselves.

Real Reviews, Real Women, Real Results

“I interviewed three different doctors. Only Dr. Kokinos was actually a vascular surgeon. She explained everything in detail and didn’t pressure me. The results are beyond what I hoped for.”
— Carmen V., Morgan Hill

“No comparison. Other clinics talked about technology—Dr. Kokinos talked about anatomy, circulation, and outcomes. Her results were clearly better.”
— Angela H., Hollister

“Elegant, caring, and brilliant. She did in one visit what another office told me would take four appointments.”
— Brittany S., San Jose

A Word About Billing: What You Need to Know

Some physicians extend vein treatment across multiple appointments not because it’s necessary, but because it allows them to bill more per patient.

At South Bay Vascular, Dr. Kokinos:

  • Performs procedures in one complete session when appropriate
  • Uses evidence-based protocols to determine need
  • Provides clear explanations of insurance coverage and billing—before you commit

Understanding the Procedure: How It’s Done

Modern varicose vein treatment is minimally invasive, virtually painless, and completed in-office:

  • Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) or Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) closes the faulty vein
  • Ultrasound mapping guides precise placement
  • You walk out the same day, with little to no downtime

The difference? Technique and experience. And no one in the South Bay has more of both than Dr. Kokinos.

Questions Every Woman Considering Vein Work Should Ask

Your legs carry your strength, your style, and your stride. Choosing who treats them isn’t just a medical decision—it’s a personal one. These thoughtful, empowering questions will help you understand if your doctor truly has the training and experience you deserve.

Questions include:

  • How long have you been performing vein procedures, and how many have you completed?
  • Are you board-certified specifically in vascular surgery? Don’t be deceived. Only the Best Vascular Surgeons are board certified…and Board Eligible is NOT Board Certified. 
  • What advanced training did you complete in arterial and venous systems?
  • Will you personally evaluate, diagnose, and perform my treatment?
  • Do you use ultrasound vein mapping before every treatment? If so, who does these scans? Are your vascular ultrasonographers RVT certified? 
  • How do you ensure your results are both functionally effective and aesthetically beautiful?
  • What’s your approach to minimizing the need for multiple sessions?
  • How will you determine whether my symptoms are cosmetic or signs of a deeper vascular issue?
  • What happens if I need follow-up or experience complications?
  • Do you treat both arterial and venous disease, or just veins?
  • Can I see before-and-after photos and patient reviews?
  • What are your protocols for billing, and do you explain all coverage up front?
  • What sets your practice apart from larger group vein clinics or cosmetic centers?
  • What do your patients say about their experiences under your care?
  • What is your board certification?
  • Are you a vascular surgeon or a Vein Specialist? Ask them to explain the difference!
  • Will you perform the procedure yourself?
  • How many cases like mine have you completed?
  • Do you split procedures over multiple appointments?

Why Women in San Jose, Morgan Hill and Gilroy Choose Dr. Kokinos

  • Independent practice = no quotas, no corporate incentives
  • Woman-to-woman understanding of beauty, confidence, and comfort
  • 30 years of unmatched outcomes: No other vascular surgeon or vein specialist even comes close to having that kind of experience. 
  • Real patient advocacy, not system-driven care
  • Fluent in Spanish, Greek & French. In fact, Dr Kokinos’s staff is fluent in 14 different languages. 

Call today to schedule your Vein Consulation. 408-376-3626

“We Offer Hope When Others Say There Is None”