You may have been wondering how, and if, you can remove those pesky, and sometimes painful, varicose veins. For some individuals, it is a cosmetic reason for wanting these veins removed, while for some, there are painful side effects. Indeed, there is a procedure to remove these forms of veins.
A microphlebectomy is a standard outpatient procedure for varicose veins that removes them through small incisions in the skin. The instrument used for this procedure is a small scalpel or needle and a phlebectomy hook to remove the varicose vein.
What is a Varicose Vein?
The team at Mayo Clinic describes a varicose vein as an engorged vein closer to the surface of the skin that may have an enlarged appearance. These veins can range from the color of your skin to a dark purple. Varicose veins typically exist on the lower part of the body, mainly the legs.
Why and How Does a Varicose Vein Develop?
There are a few ways someone can develop varicose veins in their lifetime. These veins can develop due to:
- Family history
- Hormonal changes, such as pregnancy or menopause
- Obesity
- Age (can occur at any age, but has a higher chance after age 50)
Are There Any Side Effects or Complications of Having Varicose Veins?
Unfortunately, varicose veins can be more than a cosmetic issue: they can have serious complications. Varicose veins can lead to blood clots, such as superficial thrombophlebitis and life-threatening Pulmonary embolism. Left untreated, these veins can also cause ulcers, and, in severe cases, Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI). Other side effects of varicose veins can lead to a painful sensation and/or swelling of the veins.
When Should I Talk to My Doctor About Microphlebectomy?
It is essential to share with your provider if you experience swelling, discomfort, a warm sensation with a varicose vein, or a family history of complications from a varicose vein(s). From here, your provider can share what a treatment plan could look like.
What Is a Microphlebectomy?
One of the more common treatment plans is to obliterate the varicose vein through an outpatient procedure known as a microphlebectomy.
If you have an upcoming procedure or are curious about vein removal, here are five essential things about a microphlebectomy.
- A Microphlebectomy is an Outpatient Procedure: This means the procedure is done in one day, in the office, with the ability to recover completely at home. With an outpatient procedure, you spend less time in a surgery room or clinic and more time in the comfort of your home to rest and recover.
A rough estimate of your time in an office or clinic for this procedure can be 45 minutes to two hours. However, this time estimate varies depending on the patient’s case.
Since a microphlebectomy is an outpatient procedure, local anesthesia is provided to the patient during the treatment. - Little to No Pain During Procedure: Because doctors will provide patients with local anesthesia, the patient should feel no pain during the removal process of the vein. A patient may only feel pressure of the removal, and some may feel the slight piercing of the local anesthesia being provided. And at Vein Solutions, your comfort level is our top priority as we take each patient’s concern for comfort in any procedure seriously.
- The Basic Timeline of an In-Office Microphlebectomy Procedure: After the patient is cleared for the procedure and local anesthesia is provided, the doctor will locate the varicose vein and create a few small incisions to extract the varicose vein. Then a dermal adhesive—or sometimes stitches, depending on the size—is applied to the incision. Traditionally, this is all completed within one hour.
- What to Expect After a Microphlebectomy Procedure: Patients can complete their short recovery time from home after the in-office procedure. Patients must keep their bandages on or wear compression socks to avoid complications in the first few weeks. Your doctor will also advise against strenuous activities for the first 14 days following the procedure. Walking is also recommended as this encourages healing from the incision(s).
Your doctor can provide more specific recovery details based on your procedure and condition. Ultimately, the recovery process of a microphlebectomy procedure is fast and easy for the majority of patients with little to no pain post-procedure. - The Particular Vein Removed Will Not Return: In some removal procedures, there is a chance that the removed piece may return. This is not the case with a microphlebectomy. Once a particular varicose vein is removed, patients can rest assured it will not return. However, this does not mean other varicose veins may form in different lower body areas.
And yes, a varicose vein can be removed without harming you, as the blood in these veins will reorient itself to other veins!
Alternatives to a Microphlebectomy Procedure
A microphlebectomy for varicose veins may not be ideal for everyone. Alternatives to a microphlebectomy to discuss with your doctor include:
- Sclerotherapy: Injection of a chemical solution into a varicose vein to collapse and destroy the vein.
- Endovenous Ablation: Minimally invasive, heat from a laser or radiofrequency is used to target, treat, and destroy the varicose vein(s).
- VenaSeal: Also minimally invasive, VenaSeal uses a medical adhesive to close varicose veins.
Who is an Ideal Candidate for a Microphlebectomy?
A skilled doctor will be able to determine if you are an ideal candidate for a microphlebectomy, but some key factors that make you a perfect candidate include:
- Large and visible veins, such as microphlebectomy, are best for larger varicose vein treatment.
- If you experience pain or discomfort from a vein(s), a microphlebectomy can provide relief.
- Cosmetic and aesthetic concerns over the appearance of veins, as microphlebectomy is ideal for enlarged and visible veins.
- Has tried alternative treatment options with no success.
Other Common Questions About a Microphlebectomy Procedure:
Is There an Age Restriction on When a Patient Can Get This Procedure?
While this procedure has no set age limit, sharing any details of complications you may be experiencing from your varicose veins with your doctor is essential. You will want to ensure you are seeing a skilled, knowledgeable, and credible doctor who can map out an appropriate treatment plan based on your age, history, and current varicose vein condition.
Any of our providers at Vein Solutions Flint would gladly discuss a treatment plan and potential procedure if needed.
Are There Any Complications From a Microphlebectomy?
There are possible risks with any procedure, but the chances of complications with a microphlebectomy procedure are relatively low. Yet, some patients may experience side effects such as swelling or bruising at the incision site.
Some other patients may experience an allergic reaction, numbness, or an infection. Still, many of these side effects are rare. Your doctor will be able to evaluate and ensure that you are an appropriate candidate for this procedure based on your medical history.
How Much is a Microphlebectomy?
Many insurance providers will cover this procedure, but you will want to connect with your insurance company for a complete understanding and review. Without insurance, a microphlebectomy can range from $400 to $2,000. It is essential to know that the cost for this procedure, without insurance, depends on various factors such as location, severity of the veins, and the clinic. To get a quote, with or without insurance, from the team at Vein Solution, schedule your appointment today.
Microphlebectomy at Vein Solutions Flint
Overall, a microphlebectomy is a standard outpatient procedure for varicose veins. This procedure allows patients to recover fully from home, confident that a Vein Solutions doctor met each level of comfort, while alleviating atherosclerotic vein complications.
Interested in learning more about what your treatment plan can look like? Contact us online at Vein Solutions to connect with one of our skilled Medical Doctors. From here, we can schedule an in-person appointment to evaluate your concerns and answer any additional questions you may have. Our team at Vein Solutions Flint would be honored to walk alongside you in your varicose vein treatment journey.
