How long should I wait to see if the veins in my calf will diminish after EVLT? I would like to avoid Microphlebectomy if possible, but will have it done if necessary ?
Microphlebectomy is needed to shorten the recovery and better the
results. The varicose veins will disappear most of the time but it may
take a long time if they are big and cause lumps on the legs. I
reccomend microphlebectomy if the veins are large and many.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
No, phlebectomy is not always necessary. The decisions is largely yours. Wait about a month after the EVLT and see if you are satisfied with the results. If you are, you do not need to proceed to microphlebectomy.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Good question!
Many people want their microphlebectomies done at the same time to reduce down time
However, approximately 50% of bulging veins will resolve spontaneously after sealing the Saphenous vein.
That does leave 50% that don't. We typically will leave the very large bulbous varicose veins for 6 weeks to 3 months depending on insurance guidelines or patient preference.
Norman N. Bein MD FACS RVT
Published on Jul 11, 2012
It is not always mandatory, however I have found the cosmetic result to be better with concomitant Microphlebectomy.
It is very reasonable to proceed with ablation alone first and then subsequent Microphlebectomy thereafter if needed. Generally after at least 4-6 weeks.
Michael D. Ingegno, MD
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The degree of improvement of varicose veins after endovenous thermal ablation varies considerably from patient to patient. We usually wait 2-6 weeks to assess the extent of microphlebectomy and/or sclerotherapy needed for treatment of residual varicose veins.
Stephen F. Daugherty, MD, FACS, RVT, RPhS
Published on Jul 11, 2012
These are not questions that can be answered on line. If you've had procedures done, then you should speak with the doctor involved.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Microphlebectomy will be indicated if the varicose veins are still visible and did not completely reduced after EVLT.
Dr Farhy
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Microphlebectomies is not always needed after EVLT. However, there is no guarantee that the varicose veins will resolve after EVLT and it could take up to 1 year for this to happen. I would recommend microphlebectomies at the same time as the ablation procedure and , in my practice, patients prefer this.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
One month should tell you. I find it or foam sclero necessary about 80 % of time.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
It is not always necessary, but it may take up to one year to see the comlete results after ablation.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
This question is not easily answered without looking at you legs and
ultrasound study. If however you had bulging veins below the knee before
evlt they will be decompressed and look improved. In some cases they almost
disappear. However with time they will usually repressurize and become
problematic. There are a few physicians that disagree with this statement,
although I do not think that a Board Certified Phlebologist would disagree.
Colin E. Bailey, MD, FACS
Published on Jul 11, 2012