Can I get phlebectomy for surface blue veins?

I had EVLT done on both legs 6 months ago and stab on the back of my calves for varicose bulging. Now I noticed superficial blue veins on the tops of my thighs and calves. Can I get phlebectomy for these or should I just live with them?

Answers from doctors (5)


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Sep 07, 2017

These may be completely normal reticular veins and may have been present prior to your procedure. Some people are more focused on the larger prominent veins and then become more aware of other veins and also concerned. We do sometimes treat veins like this on the front of women's shins for cosmetic reasons. There is the shin bone, little padding and blue veins which can be quite large and slightly bulging — for these we do phlebectomy or injections. We do treat reticular veins with sclerotherapy injections, but if these are normal I recommend leaving them alone.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

These may be completely normal reticular veins and may have been present prior to your procedure. Some people are more focused on the larger prominent veins and then become more aware of other veins and also concerned. We do sometimes treat veins like this on the front of women's shins for cosmetic reasons. There is the shin bone, little padding and blue veins which can be quite large and slightly bulging — for these we do phlebectomy or injections. We do treat reticular veins with sclerotherapy injections, but if these are normal I recommend leaving them alone.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS, RVT, RPVI, RPhS

Published on Sep 07, 2017

If they are bulging, they may be best addressed with expert microphlebectomy. If they are reticular veins, they can be treated with sclerotherapy. If they are intermediate in size (larger than reticulars and smaller than varicose veins), you can undergo ultrasound guided sclerotherapy. Seek a certified vein specialist from ABVLM.

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Answered by Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS, RVT, RPVI, RPhS

If they are bulging, they may be best addressed with expert microphlebectomy. If they are reticular veins, they can be treated with sclerotherapy. If they are intermediate in size (larger than reticulars and smaller than varicose veins), you can undergo ultrasound guided sclerotherapy. Seek a certified vein specialist from ABVLM.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Jan 19, 2015

Superficial blue veins are called reticular veins and are best treated by sclerotherapy.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Superficial blue veins are called reticular veins and are best treated by sclerotherapy.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein Center

Published on Jul 03, 2012

If they are not sticking out much, phlebectomy would be difficult. Sclerotherapy foam or liquid would be better.

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Answered by Advanced Vein Center

If they are not sticking out much, phlebectomy would be difficult. Sclerotherapy foam or liquid would be better.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Austin Vein Specialists

Published on May 08, 2012

Yes, phlebectomy is one option. Another option is sclerotherapy.

Answered by Austin Vein Specialists (View Profile)

Yes, phlebectomy is one option. Another option is sclerotherapy.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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