Is Ambulatory Phlebectomy Treatment Right for You?

Blog Post
By BASS Vein Center
Is Ambulatory Phlebectomy Treatment Right for You?
October 19, 2023

When you have varicose veins, not only do you have to deal with the unsightly bulging veins on your legs, but many times you also must deal with the aches and pains that go along with them. Varicose veins are a common condition, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t severe. They are usually a symptom of an underlying vein issue that many patients are unaware of until they see a vein specialist. The best way to remedy your vein issues is to look into minimally invasive treatment options such as varicose veins ambulatory phlebectomy.

What is Ambulatory Phlebectomy, and Why Do I Need One?

Large and bulging varicose veins are the most common vein disease symptoms, and they can also be the most unsightly or unwanted. These large veins are visible just under the skin’s surface and appear red, blue, or purple. When the valves in the veins become damaged, it can cause the blood to fail to return to the heart. That causes the small veins near the skin’s surface to fill up more than usual and begin to stretch. Not only do these large and twisted veins affect the appearance of your legs, but they have also been known to cause a lot of aches and pains.

Before the Procedure

An ambulatory phlebectomy procedure usually takes around an hour and a half to complete. The patient is provided with medication to help them relax before the procedure begins. Before the treatment, the bulging veins are marked using a pen while you are standing. This makes it easier for the doctor to see them while you are lying down. The leg is then prepped for the procedure.

During the Procedure

The doctor will administer anesthesia to the leg area, and, once the leg is numb, a tiny incision is made beside the affected vein. The doctor uses these incisions to remove the problematic vein. The incision is later closed, and a bandage is placed on the legs and a compression stocking.

What to Expect Following an Ambulatory Phlebectomy Procedure

After you receive ambulatory phlebectomy treatment, you can resume your normal daily activities. It is recommended that you avoid any type of strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for at least one week following treatment. You should keep your leg clean and dry for five days to ensure optimal healing and prevent infection from occurring. You may be prescribed an antibiotic for 5 to 7 days after the procedure. This will further ensure that you do not end up with an infection from the incisions. You can take ibuprofen three times a day after treatment to help with any post-treatment inflammation and pain that may occur.

Recovery from ambulatory phlebectomy treatment is usually quick and easy. Most patients are fully recovered from the procedure within two weeks. It is quite common to experience some bruising at the treatment site. Patients may also notice the development of small, hard bumps just under the skin where the old, damaged vein once was. This is a result of trapped blood in the leg. The bumps should go away, and the problem resolves on its own within a few weeks after treatment.

Where to Get a Vein Phlebectomy Near Me

If you are interested in having an ambulatory phlebectomy or would like to learn more about other treatment options available for varicose veins, BASS Vein Center is here to help. Our team is dedicated to taking care of a broad range of vein problems and can help you eliminate your varicose veins or spider veins for good. Get in touch with us today at (925) 281-5912 to learn more.

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