Phlebectomy
Ambulatory Phlebectomy is a technique used to remove large surface varicose veins and is an alternative to traditional ligation and stripping surgery.* Varicosities are extracted using a phlebectomy hook through small incisions as narrow as one millimeter that typically does not need stitches and merely leaves barely noticeable puncture mark scars.*
*Results and patient experience may vary.
Similar to EVLA, results may be noticed right away, though there may be slight swelling directly after the procedure and micro-incisions will take one to two weeks to fully heal. Phlebectomy has an outstanding record of success with virtually no recurrence of vein congestion and attractive cosmetic outcomes. In some cases, follow-up procedures and combination therapy with EVLA or sclerotherapy may be necessary to achieve desired results.*
HOTCHANDANI LASER, VEIN, AND COSMETIC SURGERIES PATIENT COMMENTS
The Hotchandani Laser Center was a truly amazing experience. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable. Dr. Hotchandani was very caring and respectful of my needs. You feel very at ease and know that they are offering the best treatments available. I am recommending the center to everyone who needs to have varicose vein treatment.*
- C.B.
* Results and patient experience may vary.
Tiny incisions as small as one millimeter, typically not requiring stitches, serve as the openings used to extract varicosities.* Dr. Hotchandani may use a Veinlite® to illuminate the treatment area in order to visually mark and identify incompetent vein locations.* A phlebectomy hook is inserted into a micro-incision and is used to capture a section of the vein which is then gently removed through the incision.*
* Results and patient experience may vary.
Ambulatory Phlebectomy is performed on an outpatient basis (return home the same day) and typically takes under an hour.* Patients may return to work and normal activity after a day of light activity and should keep the leg elevated.* During the procedure, a local anesthetic numbs the treatment area so the patient feels minimal pain.* Post-procedure, an ace bandage is applied and may be worn for the first 48 to 72 hours, and a compression stocking is worn for up to two weeks with strenuous activity avoided during that time.*
* Results and patient experience may vary.
IS PHLEBECTOMY PAINFUL?
A local anesthetic, usually lidocaine unless the patient is allergic and an alternative takes its place, is used to de-sensitize the treatment area and the procedure itself is not painful.* There will be little to no discomfort for the first week after the procedure.*
DOES PHLEBECTOMY LEAVE SCARS?
Micro-incision entry points are sufficiently small such that they do not require stitches and merely leave barely noticeable tiny puncture mark scars.*
WHAT IS THE RECOVERY TIME REQUIRED?
You may resume normal activities including exercise within 3-4 days of the Ambulatory Phlebectomy.* Many patients return to work and normal activity after a day of light activity and keeping the leg elevated.* Strenuous and high impact activities should be limited to two weeks, and you will likely be asked to wear a compression stocking during that time to prevent recurrence.*
IS PHLEBECTOMY SAFE?
Compared to traditional vein stripping, the Phlebectomy technique is minimally invasive and almost always devoid of significant side effects.* Bruising will appear in many cases, but usually dissipates within a month.*
* Results and patient experience may vary.