Meet your vein doctor in Addison: Dr. Benjamin Kum
Finding a vein doctor involves more than a quick internet search. You want someone who understands venous disease, has the training to diagnose accurately, and performs treatments regularly enough to do them well. At the Addison vein clinic on Dallas Parkway, Dr. Benjamin Kum, DO, brings 13 years of clinical experience and dual board certifications to his practice.
This article covers Dr. Kum’s background, training, and approach to vein care so that patients in the North Dallas area know what to expect before scheduling an appointment.
Education and training
Dr. Kum completed his medical education at the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) College of Osteopathic Medicine. Osteopathic medical training emphasizes the interconnection of body systems, which can be particularly relevant when evaluating vein conditions that affect circulation throughout the legs.
After medical school, Dr. Kum completed an internship in General Surgery at Stony Brook University Hospital. This surgical foundation provided hands-on experience with vascular procedures and a thorough understanding of anatomy. He then completed a residency in Family Medicine at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital, broadening his perspective on how vein disease fits into overall patient health.
What are Dr. Kum’s board certifications?
Dr. Kum holds dual board certifications:
- Family Medicine: American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM)
- Addiction Medicine: American Board of Preventive Medicine (ABPM)
Board certification requires passing rigorous examinations and meeting ongoing continuing education requirements. It provides patients with an objective measure of a physician’s knowledge and commitment to staying current in their field.
Academic background
Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Kum has contributed to medical education. He held academic positions at both Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine and the University of Texas Southwestern. Teaching medical students and residents requires a deep understanding of medical concepts and the ability to explain complex topics clearly.
This teaching background carries over into patient consultations. Explaining why veins malfunction, what ultrasound findings mean, and how different treatments work are all forms of education. Patients who understand their condition tend to make more informed decisions about their care.
Approach to vein evaluation
Dr. Kum’s approach begins with listening. Leg heaviness, swelling, cramps, and visible veins each tell part of the story, but understanding when symptoms occur, what makes them better or worse, and how they affect daily life provides crucial context.
The physical examination looks for signs that patients might not notice themselves: subtle skin changes near the ankles, patterns in vein distribution, or swelling that develops during the examination. These observations guide the diagnostic process.
In addition to a physical examination, an ultrasound evaluation will be used to provide a more accurate understanding. This non‑invasive test will map the venous system and help determine whether chronic venous insufficiency is present. It will use sound waves to visualize blood flow and identify reflux, which is the backward flow of blood that can occur when vein valves are not functioning properly.
Why consider Dr. Benjamin Kum for vein treatment in Addison?
Choosing a vein doctor goes beyond credentials. It helps to find someone who combines medical training with a patient-centered approach. Here is what sets Dr. Kum apart:
He takes time to listen
Dr. Kum’s approach to patient care is rooted in respect for patient autonomy and a commitment to wellness-based, collaborative care. He takes the time to truly listen, getting to know each patient as an individual while welcoming questions and concerns.
He explains medical information clearly
Medical information is shared in a clear and approachable manner, allowing patients to feel informed, confident, and actively involved in their care. As a trusted partner and guide, his goal is for every patient to feel heard, respected, and empowered.
His background shaped his compassion
Dr. Kum was inspired to pursue medicine in part by a family member’s journey through addiction and recovery. This personal experience deepened his understanding of how health challenges affect patients and families, making him especially attuned to the emotional aspects of care.
What treatments does Dr. Kum offer?
When treatment is appropriate, Dr. Kum performs minimally invasive procedures that have largely replaced traditional vein stripping surgery.
Radiofrequency ablation
Radiofrequency ablation uses thermal energy to close malfunctioning saphenous veins. A thin catheter is inserted through a small puncture and guided into position using ultrasound. The procedure takes about 30 to 45 minutes and is performed with local anesthesia. Patients walk out the same day.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy treats spider veins and small varicose veins by injecting a solution that causes the vein to seal and gradually fade. This is often performed after underlying venous insufficiency has been addressed.
Treatment plans are personalized and based on a physical examination and ultrasound findings. These evaluations help identify what is happening beneath the surface and guide the selection of the most appropriate approach. Because each case is different, this process ensures that recommendations are tailored to the specific needs of each patient.
What conditions can you get treated by Dr. Kum?
Dr. Kum evaluates and treats a range of venous conditions:
- Varicose veins that bulge beneath the skin
- Spider veins that spread across the legs
- Chronic venous insufficiency causing symptoms like heaviness, swelling, and aching
- Skin changes near the ankles related to venous disease
- Restless legs potentially linked to vein dysfunction
Not every leg symptom is caused by veins. Part of the evaluation process involves determining whether veins are the source or if other factors are involved.
Where can I visit Dr. Benjamin Kum?
Dr. Kum practices at the Vein Treatment Clinic in Addison, serving patients from throughout North Dallas.
17980 Dallas Parkway, Suite 300, Dallas, TX 75287
Near Bent Tree Country Club and Addison Circle Park. Accessible from the Dallas North Tollway. Free parking available.
Phone: 972-619-3735
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
The vein clinic serves patients from Addison, Farmers Branch, Carrollton, Richardson, Plano, and surrounding communities. Extended evening hours accommodate working schedules.
What to expect during your first visit?
A first appointment at the Addison vein clinic with Doctor Benjamin Kum typically includes:
- Review of your medical history and current symptoms
- Physical examination of your legs
- Ultrasound if venous insufficiency is suspected
- Discussion of findings and potential treatment options
- Insurance verification before any procedures are scheduled
Why credentials matter for vein treatment?
Vein treatment has become more accessible as techniques have improved, but the quality of care still depends on the physician performing it. Factors that affect outcomes include:
- Diagnostic accuracy: Identifying which veins are diseased and understanding the underlying anatomy
- Technical skill: Placing catheters correctly and delivering energy uniformly
- Patient selection: Knowing when treatment will help and when it will not
- Follow-up care: Monitoring results and addressing any issues that arise
Board certification, residency training, and ongoing clinical experience all contribute to these capabilities. Dr. Kum’s background provides a foundation for each of these elements.
Schedule a consultation with a vein doctor
For North Dallas residents experiencing leg symptoms, a consultation provides clarity about whether vein disease is involved.
Appointments can be scheduled by calling the clinic or completing an online request form. Insurance verification happens before procedures are scheduled, ensuring there are no surprises about coverage.
FAQs
What kind of doctor treats varicose veins?
Vein doctors, often with backgrounds in vascular surgery, interventional radiology, or family medicine with specialized training, treat varicose veins. Dr. Kum’s training includes general surgery and family medicine, as well as specialized experience in vein treatment.
Do I need a referral to see Dr. Kum?
No referral is required. Patients can schedule directly by calling the clinic or submitting an online appointment request.
Does Dr. Kum perform the procedures himself?
Yes. Dr. Kum performs the diagnostic ultrasound evaluation and treatment procedures at the Addison clinic.
What languages does Dr. Kum speak?
Dr. Kum speaks English and Korean. Translation services are available for other languages.
How do I know if I need treatment?
A diagnostic ultrasound consultation determines whether treatment is appropriate.
Is vein treatment covered by insurance?
Most treatments for venous insufficiency and symptomatic varicose veins are covered when medical necessity is documented. The clinic verifies coverage before scheduling procedures.
