Phlebologist vs Vascular Surgeon: Differences and Benefits

Key Takeaways

• Phlebologists and vascular surgeons both specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions related to vascular health, but their scopes of practice differ. 
• Phlebologists typically perform minimally invasive procedures in outpatient clinics, focusing on cosmetic and non-life-threatening vascular conditions.
• Vascular surgeons may work in outpatient clinics and hospital settings, using surgical and non-surgical procedures to treat more critical, life-threatening vascular issues.

Vascular health is a crucial component of our well-being. When problems occur, choosing the right specialist — a phlebologist or a vascular surgeon — is essential for ensuring effective care. Both professionals are integral to diagnosing and treating conditions affecting veins and arteries, but their education, training, and scope of practice vary significantly.

Phlebologists deal with non-invasive treatments for superficial vein issues. Vascular surgeons treat more complex cases using both surgical and non-surgical procedures. This blog explores the differences between phlebologists and vascular surgeons and highlights the benefits of each profession.

What Is a Phlebologist?

A phlebologist is a healthcare professional who focuses on diagnosing and treating vein-related conditions. Their work includes conditions such as varicose veins, spider veins, and chronic venous insufficiency. Phlebologists perform minimally invasive procedures, such as sclerotherapy, laser therapy, and radiofrequency ablation, to alleviate symptoms and improve the appearance of affected areas.

Phlebologists typically work in outpatient clinics and manage non-life-threatening vascular problems. Although phlebology is a highly specialized field, it is not universally recognized as a standalone medical specialty. Many phlebologists begin their careers in closely related fields, such as dermatology or internal medicine, before undergoing specialized training in vein care. 

What Is a Vascular Surgeon?

A vascular surgeon is a healthcare professional specializing in diagnosing and providing treatment for conditions affecting the blood vessels, excluding those related to the heart and brain. They address a broad range of conditions, such as aneurysms, carotid artery disease (CAD), and peripheral artery disease (PAD). 

Vascular surgeons are highly trained to manage critical conditions and perform complex surgical procedures, including bypass surgeries, stent placements, and endovascular interventions. Their work environment includes outpatient clinics and hospital settings, where they handle emergency cases and provide long-term patient care. 

Key Differences Between Phlebologists and Vascular Surgeons

Phlebologists and vascular surgeons are both involved in treating vascular conditions. However, their scope of practice, education, training, and approaches differ in important ways. The following sections outline the key distinctions between these two professions.

Scope of practice

Phlebologists primarily focus on vein-specific conditions, especially varicose and spider veins. Their practice includes non-invasive and minimally invasive procedures, such as sclerotherapy, laser therapy, and ultrasound-guided procedures. Unlike general or vascular surgeons, phlebologists typically do not perform surgeries or treat conditions outside the venous system, focusing exclusively on vein health. 

Vascular surgeons, on the other hand, diagnose and manage a variety of vascular conditions that impact both the blood vessels and the lymphatic system. They’re qualified to perform complex surgical procedures, including bypass surgeries, stent placements, and endarterectomy. Through these interventions, they restore proper blood flow and address intricate vascular conditions. 

Training and education

The journey toward a career in phlebology begins with general medical education, such as earning an MD (Doctor of Medicine) or DO (Doctor of Osteopathy) degree. Phlebology is pursued as a subspecialty, typically following a residency in internal medicine, dermatology, or surgery. Afterward, further training and certifications are required, with many phlebologists pursuing professional certifications from the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine (ABVLM). 

In contrast, vascular surgeons follow a more extensive educational journey. They begin by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in a pre-med or closely related field, followed by an MD or DO degree. They then complete a 5-year residency in general surgery, followed by a 2-year fellowship in vascular surgery or an integrated 5-to-7-year program. Finally, vascular surgeons obtain certification by passing the American Board of Surgery (ABS) exam in vascular surgery. 

Conditions treated

Phlebologists primarily focus on treating venous conditions, especially those affecting superficial veins. Common conditions they treat include:

• Varicose Veins: Swollen veins visible under the skin, often leading to aching, swollen, or heavy legs;
• Spider Veins: Tiny, colorful, and damaged blood vessels that appear on the skin’s surface in the form of thin lines;
• Chronic Venous Insufficiency: Weakened vein walls and damaged valves, making it difficult to return blood back to the heart from the legs; 
• Superficial Thrombophlebitis: Inflammation of the vein near the skin’s surface, usually caused by a blood clot. 

Vascular surgeons, on the other hand, manage more complex vascular issues involving arteries and veins. They treat conditions like: 

• Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Narrowing or obstruction of the vessels that transport blood from the heart to other parts of the body; 
• Aneurysms: Abnormal swelling or bulging in the artery due to a weakened artery wall;
• Carotid Artery Disease: Reduction of blood flow to the brain resulting from the narrowing or blockage of the carotid arteries caused by plaque build-up; 
• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A clot that forms in a deep vein, typically in the leg, leading to symptoms like swelling, warmth, or intense pain;
• Vascular Trauma: Injury to arteries or veins, either blunt or penetrating; 
• Critical Limb Ischemia: A severe form of PAD where artery blockage in the lower extremities significantly impairs blood flow to the hands, feet, and legs;
• Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs): Irregular connections between arteries and veins in the brain or spinal cord.

Benefits of Becoming a Phlebologist

With competitive salaries and increasing job opportunities, phlebology makes a rewarding career that improves patients’ quality of life. The treatments they provide deliver quick results, leading to high patient satisfaction. Additionally, phlebologists work in outpatient settings, which offers flexibility in their schedules and enhances their work-life balance. 

Salary

As of January 2025, phlebologists earn an average hourly wage of $26.34, equating to approximately $54,800 annually. Salaries vary significantly, depending on skill level, location, and years of experience. While the profession offers a competitive salary, its earning potential tends to be lower than that of vascular surgeons due to its narrow scope of practice and shorter training requirements. 

Job outlook

With an aging population and an increasing occurrence of conditions such as varicose veins and venous insufficiency, the demand for phlebologists continues to rise steadily. The industry has been growing at an annual rate of 0.3%. Phlebologists typically find employment in outpatient clinics, cosmetic treatment centers, and private practices. Advancements in cosmetic vein treatments and minimally invasive technologies also create new growth opportunities in this field. 

Benefits of Becoming a Vascular Surgeon

A career as a vascular surgeon is both fulfilling and impactful, offering the opportunity to address critical vascular conditions and prevent serious complications. Their expertise is increasingly in demand, reflected in growing salaries and positive job prospects.

Salary

Vascular surgeons are among the highest-paid medical professionals, with an average annual salary of $455,176. This high earning potential reflects their extensive training, expertise in performing complex procedures, and broad scope of practice, often involving life-threatening cases. 

Job outlook

Vascular surgeons perform advanced procedures and manage conditions affecting the lymphatic and circulatory systems. This role is in high demand due to an aging population, a shortage of qualified professionals, and an increasing prevalence of vascular diseases. Approximately one-third of hospitals in the U.S. are actively seeking vascular surgeons.

Vascular surgeons can explore career opportunities in hospitals, academic institutions, and private practices. Their advanced skills and ability to deal with high-risk cases provide not only financial security but also long-term career stability.

Which Path Is Right for You?

Choosing the right career path requires careful consideration of the requirements and demands of each option.

Becoming a vascular surgeon may be ideal if you have excellent manual dexterity, a strong commitment to patient care, and you enjoy the challenge of complex surgeries and high-stakes cases. This career also requires long, intensive training and the ability to maintain focus under challenging circumstances.

On the other hand, a career in phlebology may be an excellent fit for those who prefer technical work combined with a patient-centered approach. If you enjoy building connections with patients and prefer focusing on non-invasive or minimally invasive treatments, this field may be the right fit for you. 

Work-life balance is another crucial consideration in your career decision. Vascular surgeons often face demanding schedules and emergency cases, while phlebologists generally enjoy more flexible working hours. 

Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal strengths, interests, and lifestyle preferences. Both professions provide fulfilling opportunities and the potential for growth within the healthcare field.

Conclusion

Phlebologists and vascular surgeons are crucial in maintaining vascular health, each addressing distinct patient needs. Phlebologists are professionals in non-invasive treatments for vein-related issues, whether for cosmetic purposes or to relieve discomfort. In contrast, vascular surgeons manage a broad range of conditions, including critical and life-threatening issues, using both surgical and non-invasive approaches.

Patients must understand the difference between these roles to receive appropriate care. On the other hand, medical professionals must analyze the differences in training, education, scope of practice, and work environment to choose the right career path. Both roles contribute significantly to advancing vascular medicine within their unique domains.

Whether your passion lies in phlebology or vascular surgery, the AUA College of Medicine builds the foundation for a successful career. If you want to shape the future of vascular health, take the first step by enrolling in our medical school today. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a vascular surgeon perform cosmetic vein treatments?

Yes, vascular surgeons are qualified to perform cosmetic vein treatments, including the use of prescription compression stockings, medications, or procedures like laser ablation. 

Is phlebology a recognized medical specialty?

No, phlebology is not recognized as a medical specialty by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). However, professionals in this field can earn certification through the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine (ABVLM).