Treating Varicose Veins with Microphlebectomy

Also referred to as 'stab phlebectomy', microphlebectomy has helped individuals in Schaumburg, Illinois and around the country find relief from varicose veins in a safe, minimally-invasive manner. Varicose veins may lead to embarrassment for some individuals, while many may also experience pain and heaviness in the legs. Varicose veins may appear bulging from the skin and may appear bluish or purplish in color, making them quite unsightly. Many feel self-conscious of the condition and combined with the pain and heaviness, varicose veins may lead patients to seek relief.

Microphlebectomy involves the use of tiny incisions through which portions of the problem vein may be removed. Removing sections of the vein allows the areas not removed to clot off so that the bulging and purplish appearance goes away. To begin the procedure, the specialist will first mark the treatment areas and the tiny incisions will be made after the treatment area has been cleaned and numbed. Only a local anesthetic is used for most procedures. A tiny hook is used to grab the vein for removal. When the procedure is complete, a dressing is placed on the treatment area. Procedures may take about 30 minutes to 45 minutes to complete, although this may vary.

Recovery from microphlebectomy is quick for most patients. Individuals are usually allowed to return to their normal activities or return to work right after the procedure. Daily walking is recommended after treatment, but patients should avoid strenuous activities for about five to seven days. Compression stockings are typically worn for about a week after the treatment. The initial results from this procedure should be visible shortly after the procedure and will become more visible after the bruising resolves. As only tiny incisions are used to provide treatment, there is virtually no scarring.

Microphlebectomy may leave some mild and temporary discomfort or bruising for a day or two around the area where the treatment took place. Some may also experience minor injury to the tiny nerves located just beneath the surface of the skin in the treatment area. The injured nerves usually heal over time, however. Before undergoing this or any procedure, patients are encouraged to seek consultation with a professional in the Schaumburg area to discuss the possible risks and complications.

Insurance may cover the cost of treatment if microphlebectomy is used as part of a larger medical procedure that addresses problematic varicose veins. If considered a cosmetic treatment, insurance may not cover the procedure. Those interested should seek consultation with a vein specialist as well as their insurance company to help them determine if the procedure will be covered by one's insurance. Price may vary depending on the extent of the treatment area and the clinic that one chooses to receive treatment.

Learn more about microphlebectomy in Schaumburg, Illinois.