While varicose vein sufferers once had to undergo major surgical procedures, general anesthesia, and protracted recovery to get rid of their veins, times have changed dramatically. If you have varicose veins today, you’ve got excellent minimally invasive treatment options such as sclerotherapy, radiofrequency ablation, and microphlebectomy. Below, you can learn more about microphlebectomy and whether it’s the right choice for your varicose veins.
What Type of Veins Are Treated With Microphlebectomy?
Microphlebectomy is usually recommended for medium to large varicose veins, the type that sclerotherapy or ablation may not completely eliminate. Microphlebectomy is usually used when patients have bulging veins that affect the skin’s surface. This procedure is sometimes combined with radiofrequency ablation. For example, the radiofrequency ablation would be used to close off the feeder vein that’s supplying the surface vein with blood. Then, the microphlebectomy would be done to eliminate the bulging vein on the surface.
How Does Microphlebectomy Work?
The microphlebectomy procedure is done on site at L.A. Vein Center by Dr. Lee. Local anesthesia will be used to help you remain comfortable during the procedure. Once you’re numb, Dr. Lee will create tiny incisions of under 2-3 mm each. These are the access points for vein removal. The veins are then gently removed using a special phlebectomy hook tool. Since the incisions are small, there are no sutures needed. Most patients get sterile strips on the tiny incisions to help them heal. You’ll need to wear compression stockings once the procedure is complete, and it’s important to continue wearing them as directed until your follow-up with Dr. Lee.
Recovery After Microphlebectomy
You’ll be able to return home shortly after the microphlebectomy, and you can usually engage in most activities right away. You do not want to do serious weight lifting or strenuous activity for a couple of days while you heal. Your incisions will scab and heal over the coming weeks, and as long as you take good care of your legs you can expect to have no scarring, due to the small size of incision.