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.