Microphlebectomies

What is a Microphlebectomy?

A microphlebectomy, also known as an ambulatory phlebectomy, is a procedure in which a bulging varicose vein on the skin’s surface is removed through a tiny entry point in the skin. Multiple microphlebectomies are typically performed at the same time. This procedure is most often performed after the source of the varicose veins has been treated (with EVLT, RFA, VenaSeal, Varithena or sometimes ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy).

The Benefits of Microphlebectomies

Some advantages to having microphlebectomies include:

• Outpatient procedure
• Local “tumescent” anesthesia
• Minimally invasive
• Comfortable
• Little to no recovery time or downtime is required.
• In good hands and proper technique – great cosmetic results

What Happens During Microphlebectomies?

Microphlebectomies are typically performed on an outpatient basis in the office setting.  Most commonly they are done after after the source of the varicose veins has been eliminated (by such techniques as endovenous laser treatment (EVLT), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), VenaSeal or Varithena chemical ablation).

On the date of your procedure, you will first stand and the target areas will be marked on the skin.  You will then lie down, your leg will be prepped and a local anesthetic will be gently applied to the treatment area. Small sections of the veins are then removed through tiny incisions. The sections that aren’t removed clot and seal. This seal causes blood to flow in healthier veins

After the microphlebectomies are complete, thin pieces of sterile tape known as steri-strips are placed over the treatment sites.  Stitches are almost never necessary.  The leg is then wrapped in a bandage and your are able to walk out of the office.

Post-Procedure Expectations

After microphlebectomies your leg will be wrapped in a bandage. You will be able to walk, but after you return home we recommend that you keep your leg elevated for a few hours.  Thereafter you can be up on your feet and engaging in most light activities, like errands and cooking. It is recommended that you refrain from strenuous activities, like heavy exercise, for at least a week to ensure maximum safety and results.

The bandage which you have on your leg, which stays on for a day or two, can either be removed at home or we can remove it in the office.  After the bandage comes off, you’ll wear compression stockings for a couple of weeks. The steri-strips should be allowed to fall off, but if they’re still present after 2 weeks you can remove them.

Recovery from microphlebectomies is a gradual process but is not difficult.  Early on it is common to see some bruising and to feel some hard tender areas where the veins were removed.  These findings eventually disappear. Any symptoms that you were having prior to treatment are soon gone.  The tiny skin incisions may initially appear dark but fade to white. In general the cosmetic improvement seen after microphlebectomies is dramatic, with disappearance of the varicose veins and a return to a much more normal looking leg.

Will My Insurance Cover My Treatment?

In many cases microphlebectomies are covered by insurance.  Whether on not this is the case depends on your history and physical, past vein treatments, ultrasound findings and your particular insurance benefits. However, in instances where microphlebectomies are not a covered benefit, the cosmetic improvement that you get is well worth the investment. To determine if this treatment is covered by insurance, it is best to start with a formal consultation.  During this process your benefits can be checked and often the procedure can be authorized in advance by your insurance company.  Alternatively, you may choose to contact your insurance company and speak with your coverage provider representative to make sure for your specific case…but it is often easier to have your provider submit the appropriate documentation to get you approved.

Am I a Good Candidate for Microphlebectomies?

If you have bulging varicose veins on the surface of the skin, you may be a good candidate for microphlebectomies.  This procedure should be performed after the cause of the varicose veins has been eradicated. Microphlebectomies are the best treatment to remove larger varicose veins (typically 4mm or greater in diameter) whereas smaller varicose veins are often treated with ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy. Ultimately the decision rests between you and your provider.

The best way to know if you are a good candidate for microphlebectomies is to schedule a consultation.

Take the Next Step

If you have varicose veins that bother you either physically or aesthetically, contact our office at Beach Aesthetics today. Here you will have a chance to meet with Dr. Mark Rayman, a true vein expert. Dr. Rayman will take the time to listen to your concerns, answer any concerns or questions you may have and sort you through the various options available to you to help you to achieve outstanding results – safely, reliably and comfortably.