Why Choose Microphlebectomy to Eliminate Varicose Veins?

Updated on: August 18, 2014

Microphlebectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that has helped patients throughout Sioux Falls, South Dakota find relief from varicose veins. Varicose veins may be very embarrassing and may even lead some patients to feel self-conscious because of its aesthetically unappealing appearance. Varicose veins may even come with some degree of pain or discomfort that can make the condition especially troubling or burdensome. While surgery or ligation procedures may be recommended in some instances, many are now turning to minimally invasive options such as microphlebectomy.

This procedure is also called 'stab phlebectomy' by some because of the 'stabs' or incisions used to remove portions of the vein. Unlike certain surgical or ligation procedures, microphlebectomy does not require a significant period of downtime. Patients are usually able to return to work or other normal activities immediately following treatment and walking is encouraged afterwards to promote healthy blood flow. Compression stockings are usually worn for about a week following the procedure and strenuous activities should be avoided during this time. All patients should follow their doctor's specific recovery instructions to ensure proper healing and to avoid certain complications.

Microphlebectomy begins by marking the area to be treated. The areas where tiny incisions or 'stabs' are made are determined and marked by the doctor using a surgical marker. A numbing agent or local anesthetic is then used to numb the treatment area and a few tiny incisions will be made. The doctor uses a vein hook to grab portions of the problem vein and then removes it. A dressing is applied to the treatment area following the procedure. In most cases, microphlebectomy takes about 30 to 45 minutes to perform.

Some level of mild bruising or discomfort may be present for a few days after treatment. Rarely, the tiny nerves beneath the skin are damaged, although they usually heal on their own. While insurance companies will cover microphlebectomy if it is used to get rid of painful varicose veins that cause medical problems, when the treatment is used for cosmetic purposes, it may not be covered. Still, interested patients should consult their insurance carrier and the doctor for more information.

Before undergoing treatment, patients should discuss their candidacy for microphlebectomy with a trained medical professional. Most men and women with varicose veins or spider veins that are near the surface of the skin are considered candidates for microphlebectomy. The procedure may be used in conjunction with sclerotherapy to treat deeper veins as well.

By removing portions of a problem vein, microphlebectomy causes the vein to clot off at the areas that are not removed. This should effectively get rid of the bulging, ugly appearance of varicose veins. Patients are encouraged to discuss microphlebectomy in greater detail with a trained professional in the Sioux Falls community. This is often the best resource for further information pertaining to microphlebectomy, varicose veins, spider veins and other vein related topics.

Learn more about microphlebectomy in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Have specific questions?
ASK A DOCTOR

All Article Categories

Before & After Photos

Suggested Doctors

Recently Asked Questions