What is Microphlebectomy
Also known as an ambulatory phlebectomy, Microphlebectomy is an outpatient procedure performed in the office, in which large varicosities are surgically removed from the leg. Using a numbing solution around the vein–there is virtually no pain–we make tiny incisions to remove a section of the varicose vein. This procedure is commonly combined with Endovenous Laser Treatment to prevent re-occurrence of those unsightly varicose veins.
After the procedure, a patient should experience immediate relief from the varicose vein. While taking a section of a vein may sound scary, it has no effect on the circulation of the leg. The body has a natural way of rebounding. The blood will simply be rerouted to a healthy vein within the leg. The post-operation results can be staggering in as little as two weeks.
Patients are normally able to walk out of the office on their own. Follow-up appointments are usually two weeks after the appointment, and you may return to work in two to three days. Varicose vein cases are done on an individual basis, so make sure to follow the instructions given to you by Dr. Protain.
Varicose vein treatments are often covered by your insurance provider. Be sure to check with your individual insurance company for their specific procedures and guidelines. It is important to note that many insurance companies will require you to undergo compression therapy before paying for other procedures.
What Should You Do After a Microphlebectomy?
We recommend that you limit standing and walk for one to two days after your procedure to help the healing of your leg. Patients will also need to wear their prescribed compression stockings as directed by Dr. Protain. Since the procedure requires micro incisions to the leg, we normally close the incisions with a butterfly bandage. These bandages will need to be kept clean according to the directions of our office staff.
What Reactions Should You Expect After a Microphlebectomy?
While a microphlebectomy, sometimes called an ambulatory phlebectomy, is a minor surgical procedure, patients may experience bleeding around the incisions, swelling, bruising, discoloration of the surgical site, and infection if they do not follow the proper aftercare instructions. The treated vein will not come back, but treatment does not mean that other veins will not become varicosed.