What are the Advantages of Microphlebectomy?

Updated on: August 18, 2014

Individuals in Lincoln, Nebraska and around the country who are experiencing varicose veins would probably attest to the unsightly appearance of the condition, as well as the pain and discomfort often associated with it. Varicose veins may appear bulging from the skin and are often purplish in color. They may lead to pain or heaviness in the legs as well, making treatment important to many individuals suffering from them. Fortunately, there are several minimally-invasive procedures and treatments available at clinics and doctor's offices to help patients overcome these conditions.

One of these treatments is microphlebectomy, which involves a series of tiny incisions through which portions of the problem vein may be removed. The areas of the vein that are not removed will clot off and will eliminate the bulging, unsightly appearance of the vein for good. It will also help eliminate the symptoms of varicose veins such as pain and heaviness. There are several benefits of this procedure compared to others that help achieve a similar goal and those interested in this or any other procedure should consult a Lincoln vein specialist to determine which is right for them.

Microphlebectomy is minimally-invasive and requires only a local anesthetic, compared to invasive vein stripping procedures that require a general anesthetic and may require an overnight stay in the hospital. The procedure may also be used along with sclerotherapy when the treatment of deeper veins is necessary. There is little to no downtime associated with microphlebectomy, as most individuals are allowed to resume their normal activities or return to work immediately following the procedure.

Candidates for the procedure include any man or woman who is suffering from spider veins or varicose veins that may be near the surface of the skin. Before receiving treatment, it is important to speak with a trained professional to ensure that they are a good candidate and that the treatment is safe to perform. The procedure begins as the specialist marks the area to be treated so that he or she may determine which to make the tiny incisions, also known as stabs. The area is then numbed using a local anesthetic and the incisions are made along the length of the vein being removed. A tiny vein hook is used to grab the vein for removal.

Following treatment, a dressing is placed on the treatment site. Most procedures require about 30 to 45 minutes to perform, although this may vary. Individuals may be allowed to resume normal activities right away and daily walking is often recommended. Strenuous activities should be avoided for about five to seven days and compression stockings may be worn for about a week after the procedure. It is important to follow any recovery instructions or guidelines outlined by a vein specialist in the Lincoln area to help ensure a safe, effective recovery.

There are certain risks associated with the procedure such as temporary and mild discomfort or bruising for a couple of days after the treatment. Some individuals may experience minor injury to the tiny nerves located just beneath the surface of the skin in the treatment area. The injured nerves typically heal over time. Patients typically see results from microphlebectomy shortly after the procedure. Results should become more evident once the initial bruising from the procedure subsides. There is virtually no scarring, as only tiny incisions are used.

Learn more about microphlebectomy in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Have specific questions?
ASK A DOCTOR

All Article Categories

Before & After Photos

Suggested Doctors

Recently Asked Questions