Microphlebectomy Phoenix AZ
Do you see bumpy, knotted varicose veins beginning to emerge on your legs?
If you are, you are not alone in this struggle. More than 20% of adults experience varicose veins at some point in their lives. Moreover, like you, they are seeking treatment as well.
In the past few years, many treatments, therapies, and other solutions have surfaced. Out of these, vein microphlebectomy is a safe and effective treatment for varicose veins.
Vein microphlebectomy in Arizona involves a minor out-patient procedure where affected varicose veins are removed from your body.
If varicose veins have become a nuisance that you can’t handle anymore, vein microphlebectomy is a minimally invasive treatment that can help.
What is microphlebectomy?
Not too long ago, invasive procedures and surgical removal of varicose veins were the only treatment options people had. However, further research and technological development have pushed treatment for vein disorders beyond that.
Nowadays, minimally-invasive procedures such as microphlebectomy are commonly used. They are just as, if not more, effective in getting rid of the pesky veins.
Also known as ambulatory phlebectomy, vein microphlebectomy is a procedure used to remove medium-sized varicose veins from your legs.
The affected veins are removed in small sections by making tiny incisions in the skin. Usually, these incisions or nicks are 1-3 mm in length. They allow just enough room to remove varicose veins without requiring any sutures to close them up.
While vein microphlebectomy can be used to remove smaller veins, it is not typically used to treat spider veins.
Usually, vein microphlebectomy is supplemented with other vein treatments. Procedures like sclerotherapy and Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) are the most common ones. These help target smaller veins, producing optimal cosmetic results.
Microphlebectomy – The Procedure
Vein microphlebectomy is an outpatient procedure, usually in a doctor’s office.
The process begins when you visit the vascular specialist for the first time. They take a detailed medical history to ensure there is no other underlying health concern.
On the day of the procedure, the doctor will examine your legs while you stand. Using a marker, your doctor will identify the veins to be worked on, by marking the location for the incisions.
- The doctor will begin by sterilizing the area being treated
- Localized tumescent anesthesia will be injected at various points along the vein that needs to be addressed.
- Once the treatment site is numb, the doctor will make tiny incisions on the marked spots
- Using a phlebectomy hook, they will grasp, pull out, and remove the varicose vein
- Once all the veins are removed, the doctor will wash down your legs and place bandaged over the incisions
The entire procedure should take only 30 minutes to an hour. However, this could vary depending on the extent of the veins that need to be removed.
After the procedure is complete, your legs will be supplemented with compression dressings. For the next 2 to 3 weeks, you’ll need to wear compression stockings. These are crucial to prevent pain and bruising.
Effectiveness of Microphlebectomy
According to a study published in 2018, ambulatory phlebectomy can yield up to a 90% success rate. However, these results are possible when the following conditions are met:
- The procedure is planned and performed by a certified, and skilled physician/surgeon
- All the appropriate conditions for the procedure are met
Vein microphlebectomy results in the effective treatment of varicose veins. This cosmetic benefit supplements the treatment, leaving patients satisfied with the results, and minimal scarring.
What is Microphlebectomy used for?
As mentioned, vein microphlebectomy is used to treat varicose veins. Due to functional abnormalities in the veins or one-way valves present in the veins, blood circulation is disturbed. As a result, the blood starts pooling in the veins instead of flowing up to the heart.
This causes the veins to become swollen and protrude on the skin’s surface. Veins become knotted bumps and are often accompanied by mild pain.
When left untreated, they can progress further. A vascular specialist can help determine the severity of the varicose vein condition. Based on the diagnosis, they suggest the right treatment option. This may include vein microphlebectomy.
Benefits of Microphlebectomy
Compared to other vein treatment procedures, vein microphlebectomy offers several advantages.
- The recurrence rate for vein microphlebectomy after a year is 2%
- The treatment is minimally invasive, requiring minute incisions for vein removal
- The procedure has a 90% success rate
- Doesn’t require patients to be put under general anesthesia
- The treatment has a fast recovery, allowing patients to return to regular routines almost immediately
The Risks
Like any other treatment for varicose veins, vein microphlebectomy comes with some potential risks. The main threats include risk for infection and skin discoloration.
The increased risk of infection can be averted by making sure the procedure is undertaken at a sterile facility, by an expert. Furthermore, regular cleaning and redressing of the incisions can also reduce the chances of infection.
Besides this, rare complication that can occur after a vein microphlebectomy include:
- Bruising or hematoma in the affected area, caused by blood collecting under the skin
- Numbness and tingling
- Prolonged bleeding
What does Recovery Look like?
Most patients can return to their daily routine within the 24 hours following the procedure. The recovery from then onwards is not that complicated.
- Daily walking and regular exercise is recommended after a vein microphlebectomy to encourage healthy blood flow
- Prolonged sun exposure is not recommended as it may cause hyper-pigmentation at the incision sites
- Wear loose clothing along with compression stocking for the 2-3 weeks following the surgery
- Your doctor might also suggest avoiding strenuous activity for two weeks
Are There any Limitations?
Like other varicose vein treatments, vein microphlebectomy is not meant for everyone. Vein microphlebectomy is not recommended for people who either have an active skin infection or blood clot.
Furthermore, pregnant women should talk to a vascular specialist to assure if it’s an option for you.
What about Insurance Coverage?
Generally, medical insurance covers most procedures. However, it would be best if you talked to your doctor and insurance provider for further clarification.
Vein Microphlebectomy in Phoenix Arizona
If you are considering vein microphlebectomy to treat your varicose veins, talk to a vein doctor or vein specialist. Your medical history and the condition of the varicose veins are crucial to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for vein microphlebectomy.
Our providers are board-certified and can help you determine what treatment is best. With expertise and access to advanced technology, Vein Envy can help you find the most effective treatment for your varicose veins. Contact us today!
