Ambulatory phlebectomy is a procedure used to treat larger and more substantial varicose veins. Usually used to treat bulging and uncomfortable large leg veins, ambulatory phlebectomy is performed through tiny incisions. Patients are usually not required to stay overnight. Since varicose veins can not only be uncomfortable but also unsightly, ambulatory phlebectomy is a great treatment for external and internal grievances with varicose veins.
Any procedure can be nerve-racking but luckily, ambulatory phlebectomy is an outpatient procedure. Before the procedure, your vein specialist will speak with you to discuss a post-treatment plan that you feel comfortable with and that helps you to heal properly. With this being said, many different factors weigh into your post-treatment plan. Age, anesthesia type, and other health conditions all impact recovery time and strategy. In most cases, normal activities can be returned to within a few days but it is best to restrain from strenuous activities for up to a few weeks.
The actual ambulatory phlebectomy procedure process usually takes less than an hour, depending on the number of veins being operated on. The procedure is done by using a hook to remove the varicose vein and then repeating this process for other veins. Immediately following this varicose vein surgery, it is important to be aware of any complications or symptoms associated with ambulatory phlebectomy. Numbness, bruising, and changing of skin color near the procedure site are a few of the complications associated with ambulatory phlebectomy. As with any surgery, larger complications can include infection, bleeding, blood clots, and reactions to the anesthesia.
To reduce the chances of any of these complications, make sure you follow the post-treatment plan advised by your doctor and make the necessary lifestyle changes, including stopping smoking and avoiding heavy lifting. Be sure to notify your doctor if bleeding, fever, or other abnormalities develop after surgery of varicose veins. Also, it is extremely important to discuss pre-existing conditions with your doctor, especially if you are pregnant or have allergies.
Since post-treatment lifestyle changes can be significant and challenging, make sure you take all the necessary steps to prepare yourself and your body. Any time following surgery can be tough mentally and physically.
If you are a smoker, think of what you can do to ensure you are not tempted to smoke. Consider tobacco quitting options or substitutes.
Since you will need to take it easy, keeping your legs protected and in a good position to help circulation and reduce the chances of triggering pain. For improved circulation, it is also important to walk around every hour or so. Other options to offset pain include prescribed medicine or simply using an ice pack to reduce swelling.
Overall, during the period of ambulatory phlebectomy recovery be sure to take it easy and rest.
If you think you may need ambulatory phlebectomy, consult with a varicose vein specialist. BASS Vein Center is a team of vein experts that can advise you on which treatment is right for you. To discuss a plan or schedule a consultation, call BASS Vein Center today at 925-281-5912. They will be there every step of the way to improve your life through the removal of unsightly varicose veins.
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