Bulging Varicose Veins: How Ambulatory Phlebectomy Can Help

Blog Post
By BASS Vein Center
Bulging Varicose Veins: How Ambulatory Phlebectomy Can Help
October 19, 2023

Varicose veins can start as relatively asymptomatic but, as these veins continue to grow unaddressed, they can become much worse. They can become very large and even start bulging out of the skin, which can lead to pain and swelling. Fortunately, there are many modern treatments for varicose veins. Ambulatory phlebectomy is an excellent treatment for varicose veins that are bulging.

What Is Ambulatory Phlebectomy?

Ambulatory phlebectomy is a procedure that removes varicose veins that are bulging and close to the surface of the skin. It is only used to address larger varicose veins, not spider veins. The procedure is done on an outpatient basis and is considered minimally invasive because it only involves local anesthetic and smaller incisions. The procedure can take around an hour and a half to complete, but this depends on the extent of the veins that need to be removed. 

This procedure can greatly improve not only the cosmetic issues of bulging varicose veins but also provide relief from the pain that they cause. When the problematic veins are removed, the blood that would have flowed through them will be redirected into healthier veins. With some treatments, it can take some time to see cosmetic results, but ambulatory phlebectomy can provide immediate improvement. 

Recovery Time

As with most non-invasive treatments for varicose veins, the recovery time for this procedure is quite low. Most people will be fully recovered three to four weeks after the procedure, but you will not be down and out that whole time. You will be able to go home the same day of the treatment and may deal with some pain or swelling at the incision site. You will also have to wear a compression stocking for a certain amount of time, depending on what your doctor instructs. You can return to most of your normal activities after around 24 hours and will continue to improve as time goes on. You should typically avoid heavy exercise or working out right after the procedure. The most important thing is that your doctor will provide you with a set of recovery instructions that you should follow closely. 

Length of Treatment Results

Measuring the results of varicose veins treatment is somewhat difficult. Since ambulatory phlebectomy removes the varicose vein, the results last forever. However, new varicose veins can potentially develop, so it does not provide permanent relief from all varicose veins.

Is Ambulatory Phlebectomy Right for You?

If you are interested in this procedure, consult with your doctor. This treatment may not be the right fit for everyone, but there are other types of treatment available. Your doctor will be able to tell you whether this is the right treatment for you or if there is a better option. 

Having Trouble with Varicose Veins?

At BASS Vein Center, we are equipped with the best vein specialists and vascular surgeons to meet all your vein needs. If you want treatment for varicose or spider veins but are unsure which treatment is for you, give BASS Vein Center a call at (925) 281-5912. We have vein clinics that serve Alameda, Alamo, Antioch, Berkeley, Brentwood, Concord, Danville, Lafayette, Oakland, San Ramon, and Walnut Creek. We can talk you through each process and answer any questions or concerns you may have. If you are ready to come into our vein centers, schedule an appointment today!

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