Individuals who are afflicted with varicose veins in Valley Village, California and elsewhere around the nation often find themselves presented with various treatment options. A vein specialist will make a recommendation based on his or her evaluation of your condition, of course, but understanding how some of the treatments work may help you become a more educated patient. One of the procedures that may be recommended is a microphlebectomy. The procedure is often used for medium sized varicose veins.
Varicose veins, of course, are problematic for many patients due to the pain and discomfort they may cause in the legs. Many who have these veins also complain of the unsightliness of the veins. Varicose veins appear discolored and bulge from underneath the patient's skin. Some patients go to lengths to avoid showing their legs in public, as they are embarrassed of the veins. Through microphlebectomy and other vein treatments, though, many have gotten rid of these unattractive veins.
Also known as the 'stab phlebectomy', a microphlebectomy requires several small incisions that are made over the problem vein. Through these incisions, a hook is used to remove portions of the vein that are causing problems and are bulging. The remaining part of the vein will clot where the vein was removed, and the bulging appearance of the vein will be gone. The procedure is just minimally-invasive, and does not require a general anesthetic or a lengthy recovery period. Local anesthetic is used to help provide patient comfort throughout the treatment.
A microphlebectomy typically lasts less than an hour, and patients are often allowed to go back to work or resume doing whatever normal activities they would normally do. Certain activities like exercise or strenuous activities may be avoided for about a week as recovery takes place. Walking, however, is usually recommended. Patients should follow any instructions given to them by their Valley Village vein specialist. Many are encouraged to wear compression stockings for about a week to aid in the healing process.
For many patients who undergo microphlebectomy, results are visible shortly afterwards. As the bruising goes away, results should continue to improve. There is virtually no scarring associated with the procedure because of the small incisions. Some minor discomfort may be present, and some patients may experience injury to the tiny nerves under the skin around the treatment area. The nerves often heal over time, however.
Learn more about microphlebectomy in Valley Village, California.
